Lars Tønder

Lars Tønder is a Professor with special responsibilities at the Department of Political Science, University of Copenhagen, where he serves as Deputy Head of Department for Education and Head of Studies for Political Science and Social Studies. His research bridges democratic theory with climate change challenges, focusing on new materialism, affect theory, and human/nonhuman relationships.

• Education: PhD in Political Theory (Johns Hopkins University, 2006), MA in Political Science (University of Copenhagen, 2000), MA in Political Theory (University of Essex, 1999)

His work explores democratic innovations, tolerance, and free speech, supported by the Independent Research Fund Denmark and Innovation Fund Denmark. Recent publications address ecological crises, power dynamics, and the temporalities of democratic engagement.

Key research themes include:

• Climate and democracy
• Sensorial orientation in political theory
• Satire and power
• Affect and embodiment

Scientific awards and grants:

• Independent Research Fund Denmark
• Innovation Fund Denmark

Lars has held academic positions at the University of Melbourne, Northwestern University, and DePauw University, and contributes to public debates via lectures, media appearances, and the MOOC 'Making Democracy Fit for Climate.'