How language shapes our perception of landscapes

The research project “Language Compass Landscape and Environment” examined key German-language terms used to describe landscapes and nature. The results show how language shapes our perception of landscapes and nature, guiding our thoughts and actions. Examples: Agrarfläche (“agricultural area”), Landschaftsdienstleistung (“landscape services”), städtischer Raum (“urban space”), Stadtentwicklung (“urban development”), Vernetzungsachse (“network axis”), verdichtetes Bauen (“building densely”).
The Sprachkompass (“Language Compass”) is based on new methods of discourse linguistics and presents its results in an easily understandable manner. By promoting reflective language use, it seeks to inspire careful and sustainable interaction with landscapes and nature and to support understanding between different actors.
Our research uses examples to illustrate which aspects are made visible by use of particular terms and which blind spots they carry with them. It offers experts, decision-makers, and laypeople a tool to critically examine their linguistic resources or means of thinking.

Le «Bouillon d'idées» est un séminaire proposé par le groupe de recherche «Développement, Sociétés, Environnements», dans lequel les chercheuses et les chercheurs sont invité·e·s à présenter une recherche en cours.

L'entrée est libre. N'hésitez pas à amener votre repas.