The rise of the idea of Heimat in Germany is part of a general return to ideas of soil, peoplehood, exclusivity and roots which has given force to many global varieties of aggressive illiberalism. This talk looks at the possibilities for creating an open network of localities, based on their sensory potentials for democracy. How can touch, sight, hearing, tasting and smell, be re-mobilized to inspire affinity, experimentation, connectivity, and diversity, rather than fear, anger, disgust and humiliation? Any healthy idea of locality must rest on the body, the senses and affect. This argument can be the basis for a radical heimatology, in which a democratic dialogue between localities can reclaim the space of solidarity.
Arjun Appadurai is Emeritus Professor of Media, Culture and Communication at New York University. He lives in Berlin, where he has recently curated a brainstorming studio on "Sensory Democracy" for the House of World Cultures (HKW), which brings together designers, architects, artists, political activists and experimental bio-artists to discuss how to bring the senses back into critical liberal practice. He is a widely recognized anthropologist of cities, media and consumption and is the author of numerous books and articles.
Maison Mondiale - Sep 23, 2025, 6:30 PM