Seeing Others with Michèle Lamont: Challenges to Recognition

In Seeing Others: How Recognition Works and How It Can Heal a Divided World, acclaimed Harvard sociologist Michèle Lamont invited us to reflect on how dignity, respect, and recognition shape our lives and our communities and how it is being challenged in contemporary politics.
This presentation will be followed by a Q&A, a book signing, and a glass of wine.

In person event in English.

In her latest work, she explores what she calls a “major symbolic realignment” unfolding in the United States and beyond, a shift in how societies define who is valued and receives recognition. Drawing on decades of research and recent interviews, she shows how cultural repertoires shape who feels seen and respected, and how “worth” is often understood in narrow terms, leaving many meaningful forms of contribution unnoticed.

She also examines the role of political leaders, social movement,s and cultural media in shaping how we see one another. Their narratives can create exclusion, or they can bring previously overlooked experiences into view.

At the heart of her message is a hopeful idea. Recognition is something that is produced everyday. It is a collective cultural process that grows through shared values, everyday respect, and a sense of common humanity. It can help reduce stigma and bring people closer together.