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Luciano Santander

Photo Courtesy Luciano Santander

Photo Courtesy Luciano Santander

BUA Institution

Freie Universität Berlin

Research Description

I am a researcher specialized in political sociology, far-right studies, and Latin American politics. My work focuses on the intersection of elite radicalization, temporal politics, and transnational political movements, with particular expertise in qualitative research methods and comparative analysis between Europe and Latin America.

Where in the world has your career been largely based until now?

I have worked in Chile, Germany, and the UK. In those countries I have done fieldwork, engaged with the academic networks, and developed my research.

Why Berlin?

Berlin is a space where the social sciences not only converge from their various disciplines, but also do so critically. While my research background is in Latin America, in Berlin you find researchers from diverse realities across the Global South. That is one of the most important reasons why I feel that doing research in Berlin has a real impact.

What fascinates you about your research area?

Undoubtedly, the most fascinating aspect of the social sciences is their endless nature. Every phenomenon in question can be studied at varying levels of depth, indefinitely. And not only that; as societies evolve, so does the research.

If you could have a radical career change for a week, what would it be?

Definitely a musician. Music has fascinated me since I was little, both playing it and listening to it.

What is something surprising that people might not know about you?

My passion hasn't just been music, but in particular a misunderstood musical style: metal. That's why one of my fondest memories from my teenage years was having a thrash metal band with my friends.

What would be the greatest professional achievement you could ever aspire to?

In the social sciences, a major problem is that researchers are often detached from social reality. This is not only because we live in a bubble where we don't truly engage with the phenomena we study, but also because our research lacks real impact. Therefore, my greatest dream is for my research to have a real social impact, primarily so that societies can defend the democracies that are currently under threat.