Daniel James in Bielefeld: Antisemitism and Racism Newly Interwoven

When History Makes Visible How Racialization Works

How are antisemitism and racism connected? This ambitious lecture by Dr. Daniel James at the University of Bielefeld opens on October 21, 2026 a nuanced perspective on a central societal debate. The event also serves as the inaugural lecture for the guest professorship in Interdisciplinary Critique of Antisemitism and Racism and concludes with a reception.

Historical Interconnections Instead of Simple Categorization

Daniel James reframes the common question regarding the relationship between antisemitism and racism. The focus is not only on whether antisemitism is considered a particular form of racism or categorically different. Rather, the lecture investigates how ethno-religious, colonial, legal, and cultural classifications historically intersect.

From Iberia to the Atlantic World

Using the history of Sephardic communities, James traces how notions of origin, religion, and belonging circulated and changed from late medieval Iberia through Spanish America to the Dutch-Atlantic plantation systems of the 17th century. This creates a historical access to racialization as a process of social marking and positioning.

Scientific Perspectives with Societal Relevance

The lecture connects philosophy, social philosophy, racism research, and critiques of antisemitism. James works on classical German philosophy, Philosophy of Race, and the foundations of social scientific categories. His habilitation project, Racism without Race, examines how origin-based differences are socially constructed and become effective in power structures.

An Evening for Exchange and New Ways of Thinking

The event targets citizens, educators, researchers, students, early-career scientists, and staff of the university. The audience atmosphere promises an open scientific exchange: after the inaugural lecture, the reception provides space for discussions on historical contexts, current controversies, and an inclusive culture of remembrance.

Conclusion

Visitors can expect a well-founded lecture with historical depth, current societal significance, and subsequent opportunities for personal exchange. Those who wish to understand critiques of antisemitism and racism from an interdisciplinary perspective will experience an enlightening evening event in Bielefeld.

Official Channels of Daniel James:

• Instagram: no official profile found
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Sources:

• University of Bielefeld – Event page for the lecture
• University of Bielefeld – Information on the Guest Professorship
• Uni Heute – Announcement of the inaugural lecture