Editorial introduction : studies in memory of Thomas Hylland Eriksen (1962-2024)

Abstract

This is the introduction to a special section in SST journal, celebrating the work of Norwegian anthropologist and small-state researcher Thomas Hylland Eriksen (1962-2024). It first offers a bibliographical sketch of his intellectual life. It then presents the two core ideas of his oeuvre. Eriksen, a specialist on ethnicity in modern urban settings, held that ethnic pluralism could be integrative given a firm political framework. This idea was offered in contradistinction to two more widespread views: a nationalist view and a multiculturalist view. He also held that globalization, which should be celebrated for bringing individuals and groups together, also exerts heavy pressure on people’s time resources. Finally, this introduction presents the other contributions to this special section.