In the shadow of scientism. On dealing with heterodox knowledge, experiences and practices in the GDR

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The project focuses on the relationship between orthodox and heterodox knowledge and codes of practice in the former GDR, applying an approach from the sociology of knowledge. Particular focus lies on strategies of political-social protection of a governmentally determined system of reality. For this purpose the mostly unexplored area of the so called paranormal (i.e. astrology, miracle healing, dowsing) will serve as example. More precisely the conflicts between the dominant scientistic world view on the one side and deviating from this, the views and life practices among the general public on the other side. Concretely, three central problems have been posed: (1) the reconstruction of this deviating field of knowledge and practice in the GDR, (2) an analysis of governmental strategies for assuring the desired system of reality and (3) the investigation of the actual handling when dealing with heretics of reality. One methodical emphasis lies on partly narrative interviews conducted with actors of this field as well as representatives of social control authorities from that time. These voluntary responses will be complemented by analyses of discourse in the mass media and from official authorities.