Henk Oosterling
Henk Oosterling (1952) is Associate Professor in Philosophy at Erasmus University Rotterdam. His main fields of expertise are cultural and dialectic philosophy, as well as aestethics. He resided in Japan for some time to practice martial arts, and became Dutch Kendo champion in 1983. The Japanese teachings stimulated him to ask philosophical questions such as: what is my relation to fellow human beings, and what is my position towards society? As a philosopher, he prefers an assertive, provocative approach. If necessary, he is prepared to shock in the hope that others show an equally open attitude and willingness to experiment.
Oosterling plays an important role in the society of Rotterdam, he initiated many cultural and societal activities. For the Rotterdam city council, he functions as strategic consultant for urban innovation projects. A recent initiative called ‘SkillCity’ consist of a research model for urban revitalisation and renovation, focused on the specific social-cultural and socio-economic situation of Rotterdam. Oosterling recently published a book related this project entitled Woorden als Daden (Words as Acts), a political-philosophical reflection on the essence of a community. It discusses the practice of accepting and handing out responsibility in an profoundly individualist world, and comprises a rich source of inspiration for policy makers, CEO’s and professionals.
Henk Oosterling is also coordinator of the Centre for Philosophy & Art, chairman of the Dutch Aesthetics Federation and Secretary of the Dutch-Flemish Association for Intercultural Philosophy (NVVIF).
Debate: The End of Human Rights?
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