Alexander Lenger

Prof. Alexander Lenger is a Professor of Sociology at the Catholic University of Freiburg since 2019. He holds a PhD (2012) and Magister Artium (2006) from the University of Freiburg, specializing in sociology, psychology, and economic policy. His career includes acting professorships at the University of Siegen, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), and Freiburg University, alongside roles as Director of the Research Area 'Moral Development and Economic Understanding' and Global Studies Program Director. His research focuses on economic sociology, sociology of economic thought, social inequality, globalization, and Pierre Bourdieu’s theories. He explores economization processes, socio-economic education, and ethical dimensions of economic practices. Notable contributions include analyzing institutional and cultural factors in economic development, reflexive economic didactics, and the sociology of scientific fields. Lenger critiques methodological biases in economics and advocates interdisciplinary approaches to justice research and educational reform. His work bridges theory and practice, emphasizing pedagogical innovation and systemic equity.

• Education:
  • PhD (Dr. rer. pol.) in Sociology, University of Freiburg, 2012
  • Magister Artium (MA), Sociology, Psychology, Economic Policy, University of Freiburg, 2006
  • Diplom-Economist, University of Freiburg, 2006
• Key Research Themes:
  • Economic sociology and globalization
  • Sociology of economic thought and educational practices
  • Structural analysis of social inequality
  • Bourdieu’s habitus theory and academic field dynamics
  • Ethical dimensions of economic systems
• Professional Leadership:
  • Directed the 'Moral Development and Economic Understanding' research area at the University of Siegen (2015–2019)
  • Co-Directed the Global Studies Program at the University of Freiburg (2009–2011)

His publications emphasize the interplay between cultural, institutional, and economic factors shaping societal structures. Recent work critiques the underrepresentation of qualitative methods in economics and advocates for reflexive pedagogical approaches. Lenger’s interdisciplinary lens informs studies on global inequality, justice frameworks, and the ethical implications of market-oriented policies. His research underscores the need for systemic reforms in education and economic governance to address inequities.