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Location: 8F, Room802, Institute of Sociology, South Wing, Humanities and Social Sciences Building, Academia Sinica
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/kgd1bFG1kg2VnveF9
Contact: Miss Chang （ios.trtost@gmail.com）

Abstract:

This research employs a theoretical framework synthesized from four key dimensions—social organizational infrastructure, actors, events, and processes—to interrogate the transformation of 'local social publicness' at the township level. Within the crucible of extant structural and historical conditions, the study examines the evolutionary trajectories shaped by the alignment of actors' strategic choices with the unfolding of specific events.

First, through a systematic mapping of social hierarchies and organizational linkages, the study delineates the network topology of local opinion leaders and social organizations to illustrate the modalities of this infrastructure. It further analyzes the attributes of leaders occupying core network positions, the operational logic of pivotal social organizations, and the subsequent impact of this pre-existing infrastructure on the transformation of publicness and the development of local democracy.

Secondly, the research provides a processual analysis of the integration between agency and structure through major events in Yuanli since the lifting of martial law in 1987. Finally, these critical junctures are situated within the township context to analyze how the interplay of events facilitates the construction of a public sphere, ultimately fostering a grassroots democracy characterized by transparency and participatory openness.

Bio:

Professor Chen has long been a dedicated advocate for deliberative democracy and an active practitioner in local civil society, with a consistent focus on the development of Taiwan’s social organizational infrastructure. His current research investigates the historical trajectories and critical determinants of Taiwan's democratic development.

Furthermore, he plays a pivotal role in advancing the Research Center for Science, Technology, Democracy and Society (DSET) under the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). In this capacity, he explores the political-economic underpinnings of emerging technologies and their intersections with democratic defense, national security, social equity, industrial autonomy, and technological sovereignty.

Professor Chen is committed to fostering the establishment of Taiwan’s social practice and social innovation ecosystems. By integrating economic, human, spatial, and technical resources into an interconnected and sustainable system, his work seeks to deepen the resilience of local communities and enhance the capacity for public participation in Taiwan.