Mediterranean Meeting on the Psychology of Social Change
The Mediterranean Meeting on the Psychology of Social Change is the first edition of a gathering between scholars working in the field of social and political psychology, sponsored by the Social Psychology section of the Italian Psychological Association (AIP), the University of Messina, and supported by the municipality of Messina, to discuss recent developments in their research related to social change in the broadest sense.
Since ancient times, the Mediterranean area has been characterized by the meeting of different cultures. This crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa has seen, over the centuries, the succession of countless cultural, economic and social exchanges, which have created a rich mosaic of civilisations.
The theme of the meeting between cultures in this specific context is of great relevance for social and political psychology, which can contribute to making coexistence between different groups more harmonious, reducing prejudices and promoting less conflictual relationships.
In times marked by great migratory challenges, climate change and rapid technological innovations, the contribution of social psychology becomes even more crucial. Our discipline can in fact offer tools and strategies to facilitate integration and mutual understanding, promoting an environment in which cultural diversity is not only tolerated, but valued as a resource.
The focus of the meeting will be on the integration of various research topics linked to social change and different theoretical and methodological approaches, especially in relation to topics with a possible impact and relevant to the Mediterranean area:
- collective movements towards equality;
- gender, sex and sexuality;
- social solidarity;
- attitudes towards immigrants;
The meeting will take place in Messina, at the Department of Cognitive, Psychological, Pedagogical and Cultural Studies (COSPECS) of the University of Messina, in via Concezione, 6/8, on Friday 6th December 2024.
Messina is one of the hotspots of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), for the reception of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. The geopolitical centrality of Messina in the Mediterranean area makes it the ideal location for sharing theoretical and empirical data related to social change that can have significant implications for the Mediterranean area.
Organizers: Maria Chayinska (University of Messina), Simona Sacchi (University of Milano-Bicocca), Patrice Rusconi (University of Messina).