The research network focuses on the question of how the cohesion of societies and social groups is organised against the backdrop of increasing social diversity. In light of increasing processes of social fragmentation and diverse living conditions, the question of social cohesion is more relevant than ever. 

On the one hand, this research network seeks to describe and examine phenomena of social heterogeneity at large. This includes issues such as language diversity in a specific region or its range of religious or cultural phenomena. It raises the question of how diversity is created in the first place, e.g. by way of migration and integration processes, but also what effects diversity has on the everyday-lives of societies and individuals. 

On the other hand, the research network analyzes the conditions which bring about, shape and direct social cohesion. This includes classical questions of social theory, but also aspects of (international) law. Social and economic policy perspectives also play a role here, such as the regulating function of markets, the question of the distribution of public goods, but also the question of fairness and justice between genders and generations, or the analysis of religious and ideological forms of identity and community foundation. 

The research network can build on a large number of individual research projects and has set itself the goal of initiating new forms of cooperation and collaboration. Thematic clusters are dedicated to specific aspects of the overall topic and serve to raise the research network's profile in terms of content.

A complete overview of the publications and activities of the research network can be found in the research portal of the University of Graz.