The Sociology and Social Anthropology Seminar Series presents: Fraternal relations in monasteries: The laboratory of love

A seminar discussing the tensions between Christian ideals of love and the concrete realities of everyday monastic life. Based on a study of Cistercian monasteries in France, it develops a novel conceptualization of fraternal relations and addresses how monks and nuns strive to accomplish such relationships within their communities. 

By focusing on the main interaction contexts of monasteries as a form of voluntary total institution, the study shows how attempts to generate collective solidarity, relate to other members as equals and avoid preferential relations conflict with practices of everyday life. 

Although fraternal ideals are similar for monks and nuns, the analysis reveals significant gender differences regarding the legitimacy of different forms of interaction and relationships as well as how to control them. 

The Seminar Series

The Sociology and Social Anthropology Seminar Series (Allmänna seminariet) invites international and national researchers to present and discuss on-going research. Each presenter talks for about an hour, followed by about an hour's discussion.

Find more research seminars in this series at soc.lu.se/en/research.

While the Department of Sociology is in the temporary locked building any outside visitors to our open seminars will be let in five minutes before the stated time through door C, on the carpark side of the house.

All are welcome including students!