As a growing and vibrant field of study, the history of experience seeks to understand the diverse roles and meanings of experience in history and historiography. The history of experience studies the dynamic interaction between individuals, communities, and society. In particular, it focuses on how the processes of sharing and reinforcing experiences affect social change and continuity. As a multifaceted cultural, social, and societal phenomenon, experience consists of everyday events in social reality, the meanings given to them, and the processes and structures that emerge as a result of the given meaning. The concept of experience combines micro and macro levels. It does not focus on mapping the experiences of individuals but rather explores society from the perspective of experience.
HEX Research Centre will continue its annual conferences, which have established themselves as the leading international event in the field. The center will organize workshops and seminars with partners, continue to publish Digital Handbook of the History of Experience (established in 2022) and the Palgrave Studies in the History of Experience series. Furthermore, the centre will bring together externally funded research projects that have scientific and societal impact.
The Research Centre supports and strengthens interdisciplinary cooperation. In addition to history, it involves researchers from literary studies, gender studies, art history, education, architecture and sociology. The first director is Professor Pirjo Markkola and the deputy director is Professor Raisa Maria Toivo. The Research Centre will elect a steering group, international scientific advisory board, communications manager and contact person for teaching and further education. Membership can be applied for by submitting a free-form written application, which will be evaluated by the steering group. The requirements are a master’s degree and ongoing research work related to the history of experience or the concept of experience, as well as a connection to the University of Tampere.