Master Standards of Decision Making Across Cultures

Master Standards of Decision Making Across Cultures Standards of Decision-Making Across Cultures (SDAC) is an interdisciplinary study programme at Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg.

Summer School 2024 ✨We are thrilled to announce the success of our recent summer school program, “Malaysia: Social Inequ...
23/09/2024

Summer School 2024 ✨

We are thrilled to announce the success of our recent summer school program, “Malaysia: Social Inequality through the Lens of Area Studies,” a collaboration between SDAC/FAU and Albukhary International University (AIU), Malaysia. 🎓

This interdisciplinary course explored the dynamics of social inequality and social business through lectures, field trips, and collaborative projects. Highlights included sessions on "Yunusian Zeroism" and innovative social business solutions, insightful field trips to rural Northern Malaysia, and the presentation of impactful student projects.

A big thank you to all faculty members and students who made this program a huge success! 🌍

10/09/2024

Summer School 2024 ✨💫☀️

Spin-off #2: A Journey to Penang 🌍✨
As part of our summer school adventure, we took a trip to the beautiful island of Penang!

Beyond the cultural discoveries and stunning sights, this trip has deepened the bond between FAU and AIU students. Exploring together, sharing experiences, and creating memories—it’s all about enhancing friendships that will last far beyond this journey. Stay tuned for more chapters in our amazing journey!

Humans of SDAC ✍🏻 #7 - Interview done by ZhouyangDr. Zezhou Yang is our new lecturer this year. For him, SDAC is a diver...
01/09/2024

Humans of SDAC ✍🏻

#7 - Interview done by Zhouyang

Dr. Zezhou Yang is our new lecturer this year. For him, SDAC is a diverse program. It provides transcultural and decolonial issues and methods, helping us at getting rid of colonial and Western perspectives to look at Asia, which is very important for us.

“The majority of our students are from Asia and Africa. Students' inputs in the classroom are based on their own backgrounds and different experience. I really enjoy this kind of discussion and appreciate the exchange of different ideas and experience very, very much.

Every time I was amazed and surprised by their contribution and insights into local issues from their own perspectives, and I think it is very important and rare in Germany that we can have such a space where Asian voices can be exchanged freely without fear. This is the most important things about SDAC and I'm very honored to be a part of it.”

To new students: being open, critical and sympathetic to people and cultures you don't genuinely know but you are interested to learn. “We are all biased, but we can try to acknowledge our bias and literally appreciate and respect various culture and people we want to learn and we want to research to say to them. Don't be another outsider or observer. Just hold curious eyes on people.”

Recommended Reading from Prof. Dr. Tijo SalverdaProf. Dr. Tijo Salverda is our esteemed Guest Professor for the SDAC pro...
15/08/2024

Recommended Reading from Prof. Dr. Tijo Salverda

Prof. Dr. Tijo Salverda is our esteemed Guest Professor for the SDAC program. He has a PhD in Social and Cultural Anthropology and an MA in History and his research focuses on elites, inequality, and financial and corporate actors, including how they perceive and respond to counterpower. He has suggested an enlightening book for anyone interested in this field: The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity (2021) by the late anthropologist David Graeber and archaeologist David Wengrow.

Prof. Salverda shared his thoughts, saying, “It is certainly a long read, but it debunks a great many myths about inequality, democracy, (European) colonial encounters, and more. It offers valuable insights into alternative forms of social organization. While it takes time to read, you will finish with a wealth of new perspectives.”

Happy reading!

We cordially invite you to join the workshop “Sexuality as Sensory and Spiritual” on October 1st 2024 (from 9 am -1 pm) ...
13/08/2024

We cordially invite you to join the workshop “Sexuality as Sensory and Spiritual” on October 1st 2024 (from 9 am -1 pm) at FAU Erlangen. This participatory art-making session led by activist Gabriel Hoosain Khan will use body-mapping to explore marginality and resilience, inviting participants to create body-maps that chart how faith, migration, gender, and sexuality shape their lives.

The session encourages reflection on how art-based methods can support marginalized communities. It concludes with a discussion on collective art-making as a form of healing, social analysis, and resistance to oppression. The session also addresses the potential and challenges of arts-based research methods, questioning how they can disrupt traditional academic practices and operate across borders and boundaries.

For registration please click https://bit.ly/ART24FAU. As space is limited, be sure to register as soon as possible, by September 16th, 2024, at the latest. The exact workshop location will be provided after registration.

07/08/2024

🍺✨ What an incredible experience! ✨🍺

Our Culture and Company class, led by Professor Tijo Salverda, had an amazing time visiting the Lammsbräu Beer Manufacturer in Neumarkt, Germany! We delved into the world of organic brewing and sustainability, explored the brewery's rich heritage, and enjoyed a fantastic beer tasting session. Cheers to learning and new adventures! 🌿🍻

Humans of SDAC ✍🏻 #6 - Interview done by Linh TranMeet Zeynep, a quiet yet brave soul who found her passion for studying...
29/07/2024

Humans of SDAC ✍🏻

#6 - Interview done by Linh Tran

Meet Zeynep, a quiet yet brave soul who found her passion for studying in Germany during an Erasmus semester. With a sociology degree from Turkey, she chose to step out of her comfort zone for her master’s degree.

"The idea of doing a master's degree in Germany arose when I participated in the Erasmus program there for a semester during my undergraduate studies. I had the opportunity to closely observe student life in Germany, and I consider it the right option for a quality and productive education. I graduated from the sociology department in Turkey. After my undergraduate studies, I wanted to be in a different academic environment and get out of my comfort zone. This motivation led me to Germany.

Living in Germany was a bit challenging at first due to bureaucratic struggles, finding accommodation, and so on. This process is also very instructive. I still have difficulties sometimes, but life itself is full of ups and downs. So I cannot complain about living in Germany for now.

I learn and discover something new every day. This brings me closer to my ideal self. I'm not someone who thinks too much about the future. Rather than focusing on my ideal future version, I try to enjoy the process itself.

I was accepted to many master's programs, but I have never regretted choosing SDAC. SDAC is an institution where diversity, solidarity, and sincerity are intense. It has a structure that protects and supports its students. I love this aspect of SDAC.

Humans of SDAC ✍🏻 #5 - Interview done by TakashiHere, we meet Alisher Massimov, our youngest and full-energetic, sociali...
24/07/2024

Humans of SDAC ✍🏻

#5 - Interview done by Takashi

Here, we meet Alisher Massimov, our youngest and full-energetic, socialized cohort from Kazakhstan.

"I'm from Almaty, which translates to Apple Town in Kazakh. This is because back in the USSR, we were the leading exporter of apples.

I chose this program because I did Erasmus in Germany and because of its education system. It was an excellent experience, so I love Germany. I love the culture here, the traveling opportunities, the good geographical position, and the beautiful language. Germany offers students the opportunity to have a part-time job, and you don't need to pay a lot for your studies, only an administration fee of around 70 Euros per semester, so you just pay for yourself, what you live for, rent, and food. There were few political science programs in Germany in the English language, so I was looking for a mixture of programs. Then I found this SDAC, and I was impressed by the diversity of the program. This was perfect because I like to study a mixture of economics, political science, culture, and history, which I was always interested in.

The first semester was challenging, not in terms of study but of moving to Germany, finding accommodation, and getting used to the lifestyle here. It requires time and flexibility. Tip No.1 is to have suitable accommodation. Then, you'll have a good experience staying in Erlangen. So, take more time looking for accommodation as soon as possible. Right now, I work part-time at Amazon Warehouse three days a week. There are many opportunities to work in Germany while you're a student, but Amazon was a good option for me because my German was not yet sufficient. If I had a good German, I could work in the office, but this job also helps me to provide for myself.
SDAC is one of the most generous faculties because it has what other faculties lack. Our faculty is small, so you have more quality time with professors. Also, our professors have diverse backgrounds in anthropology and fields like politics, economy, business, and cultural studies. Spending time with them helps you get their life advice and learn how to get a professional future.

I want to work in communications or HR management. The German language will be essential if it is in Germany, as I'm working on it now.

Humans of SDAC ✍️ #4 - Interview done by Warisa Get ready to explore the world of Chima, an artist whose music transcend...
02/07/2024

Humans of SDAC ✍️

#4 - Interview done by Warisa

Get ready to explore the world of Chima, an artist whose music transcends boundaries and unites listeners everywhere. In this interview, Chima shares insights from the Elite Master Program "Standards of Decision-Making Across Cultures" (SDAC), where he combines his musical knowledge with social viewpoints. Discover how he integrates ethnomusicology with diverse social contexts, and see how his vision illustrates that music and culture truly have no boundaries.

Music unanimity: “Nigeria is West Africa's largest country, so it is a very broad country with over 200 ethnic groups.
Although I was born in the north, I was raised in the south, so even though the north and south disagree on politics and religion, they always agree to value national integration, which is music.”
North and South Nigeria differ not only in religions (Muslim vs. Christian) but also in political, cultural, and belief systems.
Our distinctive musical culture exemplifies diversity. Every cultural group has developed its own style of music.
If I had to name one thing that brings my people together, it would be music.

SDAC and ethnomusicology: integrating one's musical knowledge with social viewpoints.
My first degree was in music studies, but then I realised that I still lack contextualization tools; thus, I am looking for a master program across the globe that will broaden my horizons. While also providing me with an anthro-sociological mindset and training from an interdisciplinary study that lasts no more than two years.
As someone who lives in the south but was born in the north, I am curious about the impact of music on society.
Without knowing what motivates people to think and behave in certain ways, or even how far they have come, it is impossible to truly study their music or comprehend them through it. How societal components and elements such as cultural intelligence function in any given context.
But it is in Germany “Standard of Decision Making across Cultures”
Well, luckily, the teaching will be conducted in English
So why not give it a try? My decision is final. See you, Germany!

The big picture starts to take shape! Music and culture have no boundaries, from national to global.

People here also enjoy and play music from my culture!
I see my role as a facilitator with business knowhow in the music industry.
The final piece of knowledge I require is to hone my business argument and logic, possibly through an MBA and a digitalization course after graduation, because digitization has had a significant impact on the music industry in recent years."

On Tuesday, July 9th of 2024, from 16:15 to 17:45 Ct, Prof. Jean-Baptiste Pettier’s Moral Anthropology Advanced Seminar ...
01/07/2024

On Tuesday, July 9th of 2024, from 16:15 to 17:45 Ct, Prof. Jean-Baptiste Pettier’s Moral Anthropology Advanced Seminar hosts Prof. Dr. Olaf Zen

Dr. Olaf Zenker is a Professor of Social and Cultural Anthropology at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. Focusing on South Africa, Northern Ireland and Germany, his research has dealt with politico-legal issues such as justice, social inequality, land reform, plural normative orders, modern statehood and bureaucracy, the rule of law, conflict and identity formations as well as socio-linguistics and anthropological ethico-onto-epistemologies.

The event will take place in Room 2.275, Henkestraße 91, 91052 Erlangen and is open to all interested persons. Participants can find the exact location via the following video link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_tnJXwgSh2COMOPMnQQ4iSPCYz_ld5uE/view?pli=1

Humans of SDAC ✍️ #3 - Interview done by ZhouyangMeet our Professor Dr. Jean-Baptiste Pettier, the inspiring Director of...
28/06/2024

Humans of SDAC ✍️

#3 - Interview done by Zhouyang

Meet our Professor Dr. Jean-Baptiste Pettier, the inspiring Director of the Elite Master Program "Standards of Decision-Making Across Cultures". With his wealth of experience and friendly guidance, he offers invaluable tips for navigating the exciting yet challenging journey of youth. Ready to discover how curiosity, daring, and resilience can transform your life? Dive into Professor Pettier's insights and get inspired to boldly chase your dreams and forge your own unique path!

"Youth is a time of opportunity, but it is also a time of challenge. You have many possibilities, but you may also face many limitations and difficulties. At times, achieving your dreams may seem impossible. What to do? Where to go? What would be the best decision? Everyone faces such questions at some point, but there is no right answer. Many different choices can help you discover or reinvent yourself, move forward in your own way, and make you happy. And those same choices can have the opposite effect, making you feel inadequate, lonely, or unhappy. There is no way to always make the best choice, but perhaps a few tips can help.

Whatever it is you want to do, and whatever difficulties you may have along the way, it is important that you remain curious. Developing an interest in others, in ideas and habits different from your own, will help you grow and adapt to new circumstances. You will not like everything you see or try, but sometimes you will find a few new ideas that can change your whole world.

A second tip I really want to give you is: dare. Do not let yourself be easily censored by the fact that other people around you have not done something. Many things may seem impossible until you do them. Give yourself a chance by daring to try!

My last tip is to accept failure as much as possible as part of the journey and try to learn from it. There is no shame in failure, maybe some occasional shame when you feel inadequate, but is it so important in the long run? You may feel sad when you fail, but you have tried. You can try again later, or discover a different path. Life is about the chances you take. Go for it, your life is in front of you!"

Humans of SDAC ✍️ #2 - Interview done by Linh TranMaleeha, our fellow at SDAC, joins a captivating podcast that chronicl...
25/06/2024

Humans of SDAC ✍️

#2 - Interview done by Linh Tran

Maleeha, our fellow at SDAC, joins a captivating podcast that chronicles her journey as an active journalist from Pakistan. She shares how she and her peers from diverse backgrounds navigate the challenges of communicating in English as a second language.

"As an active member of various journalist networks, particularly in Pakistan, my journey took an exciting turn when my editor at the time recognized my adaptability to the evolving language of journalism and recommended me to a new team. This opportunity allowed me to delve into a new realm of journalistic expression and collaboration.

Through this experience, I gained invaluable insights into the nuances of language, especially English, which for many of us, is not our native tongue. I discovered how crucial it is to modify our language to ensure clarity and understanding, particularly for those who use English as their second language. This realization was a profound lesson in the importance of effective communication.

The platform of podcasts with fellow journalists from diverse backgrounds and nationalities became a treasure trove of interaction and shared experiences. It was fascinating to see how English had been adopted and adapted in various countries. This experience not only prompted me to reevaluate my own writing style but also helped me build strong bonds with fellow journalists. Our shared mode of communication – English – became a bridge that connected us, despite the unique challenges it presented.

Interestingly, we found that communicating in English, our common second language, often made our messages clearer and more relatable to each other than to native English speakers. This mutual understanding and ability to express ourselves effectively in a shared language fostered a sense of camaraderie and enriched our journalistic endeavors."

Listen to her podcast now: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rJdXAVZsrFbpgMAAao3ub?si=rhd-ad9VQL2mcYSefb9Ikg

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HenkeStr. 91, House 8
Erlangen
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Dienstag 09:00 - 17:00
Mittwoch 09:00 - 17:00
Donnerstag 09:00 - 17:00
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