This workshop will try to explore university as a space for research within society. There is a broad consensus that research especially in the humanities should not take place in a closed and socio-politically diconnected „ivory tower“ but should have „relevance for the broader society“. But what does this mean for the specific design of research topics? How is this to be achieved? How do we difine the lines between research and social engagement or activism or what is the relation between the two spheres? We will read and discuss some exemplary texts. Participants are invited to present some reflections concering their own topics connected their relation to the society they examine as well as the societey in which their research takes place. We will also invite guest speakers to contribute to our discussion.