RSAA Colloquia / Seminars / Feast-of-Facts: Friday, 06 May 2016, 14:00-14:20; Duffield Lecture Theatre


Rajika Kuruwita

"Political Science through the lens of Eurovision"

Next week the 61st Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Stockholm! This is something very close to my heart and I thought that I would talk about the history of Eurovision and how important it is for European cultural dynamics. I will then briefly summarise three sociological papers that deal with concepts of "European" identity, presenting national identity through the contest, LGBTIQ+ rights and movements, and perception of the east/west divide within Europe - all through the lens of the Eurovision Song Contest. I will also be holding a Eurovision party this year on Friday 13th May. Everyone is invited. Bring some food or drink from your favourite country. Address will be announced at my talk or email me later.