Cookies

Like most websites, the website of the University of Humanistic Studies uses cookies. Dutch regulations require websites to ask for approval the first time the site is visited. More information

Yes, I accept cookiesPreferences
EN NL

Christoph Henning appointed as Professor of Humanism and Philosophy


23 October 2023


The Executive Board of the University of Humanistic Studies has appointed philosopher Dr. Christoph Henning as Professor of Humanism and Philosophy. Henning was a fellow at the Max Weber Centre for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies of the Erfurt University in Germany. 


Throughout his academic career, Christoph Henning has focused on various philosophical themes related to humanism. His habilitation thesis focused on the political philosophy of “perfectionism”, where ideals of an ethics of flourishing are applied to questions of politics: what are the duties of the state in order to promote human happiness? How can we achieve a good life for all, if a good life is spelled out as a development of our human capabilities? 


Henning also is an expert in the field of critical theory and editor of a series in the history of philosophy and humanism. His doctoral dissertation (summa cum laude at the University of Dresden) dealt with the history of Marxist idea in the field of social philosophy and social theory. He has also published books such as "The Good Life beyond Growth: New Perspectives", “Critical Theory and New Materialisms”, a “Handbook on Happiness”, an introduction to “Theories of Alienation" or a book on artistic practices (“Creativity as a vocation"). 


Henning has extensive experience in interdisciplinary work, often collaborating with sociologists, economists, historians, religious scholars or psychologists in his research. He also possesses substantial teaching experience and has a broad international network. At the Max Weber Centre for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies, he collaborated closely with Hartmut Rosa, an honorary doctor of the University of Humanistic Studies. 


Joke van Saane, Rector Magnificus of the University of Humanistic Studies: "Christoph Henning brings an inspiring perspective on research and valuable experience to further develop our university. We are looking forward to collaborating with him."  Christoph Henning: "I feel a strong connection with the University of Humanistic Studies in terms of its humanistic orientation, which centers on a meaningful live, care, and the consequences of globalization. I am looking forward to strengthening humanism from a philosophical perspective and, in doing so, enhancing and enriching the university. In particular, I aim to bring to mind the rich philosophical inventory and history of humanist ideas and practices that is too often forgotten or glossed over in our days". 

Short Biography

Profesor Christoph Henning was Fellow for Philosophy at the Max Weber Centre for advanced Cultural and Social Studies since 2014. Previously, he was Assistant Professor at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland and at Zeppelin University on Lake Constance. He earned his PhD with distinction at the TU Dresden. He has written extensively on social and political philosophy, particularly the history of critical theory, philosophy of economics, and theories of happiness and its counterpart, alienation. He is currently working on the history of philosophical humanism in the 20th century, environmental ethics, and theories of ideology. 

The Executive Board of the University of Humanistic Studies has appointed philosopher Dr. Christoph Henning as Professor of Humanism and Philosophy. As of October 1, he succeeds Prof. Dr. Anja Machielse. Henning is currently a fellow at the Max Weber Centre for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies of the Erfurt University in Germany.