Claudius Härpfer

Claudius Härpfer serves as Chair Manager and Research Associate at the Chair of Sociology with a Focus on Technical and Organizational Sociology at RWTH Aachen University. His academic work centers on Relational Sociology, Network Research, General Sociology, and Science and Technology Studies, with particular expertise in the works of Max Weber and Georg Simmel. Currently pursuing his Habilitation with the title 'Gruppe und Netzwerk. Grundlagen einer integrativen Theorie,' he actively contributes to both theoretical and empirical research in sociology.

Härpfer's research interests span multiple interconnected domains including Relational Sociology, Network Analysis, History of Sociology, and Weberian Studies. His work demonstrates a strong focus on integrating classical sociological theory with contemporary methodological approaches, particularly evident in his network-based reconstructions of historical sociological developments. He examines how social structures, technical systems, and organizational forms interact and evolve, with special attention to the theoretical foundations laid by early sociological thinkers. His research bridges historical analysis with contemporary sociological questions, creating valuable connections between past theoretical insights and current social challenges.

Härpfer's scholarly output reveals significant trends toward integrating network analysis with classical sociological theory, particularly through reconceptualizing the works of Max Weber and Georg Simmel. His publications demonstrate a consistent focus on methodological questions in social science, the historical development of sociological concepts, and the application of network approaches to understanding social structures. The interdisciplinary nature of his work connects sociology with philosophy of science, history, and organizational studies, creating a rich tapestry of theoretical exploration that bridges historical context with contemporary analytical frameworks.

Härpfer actively supervises bachelor's and master's theses in his areas of expertise and participates in current research projects including the CIrcular SUstainable FLOor coverings (CISUFLO) initiative. His academic profile on platforms like Academia.edu and ResearchGate demonstrates an active scholarly presence with numerous publications and collaborations across disciplinary boundaries. He has co-organized academic events such as the Ad-Hoc-Group 'Kapitalistische Dynamik in lokalen Kontexten' at the 39th Congress of the German Sociological Association.

At the institutional level, Härpfer is part of a research environment that emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, as described in the institute's mission statement which values 'early integration of interested students as research assistants,' 'tandem solutions in research,' and 'a culture of exchange, mutual support, and inspiration.' This collaborative approach extends to team development activities and celebratory events, reflecting a holistic view of academic community building.