The EASA promotes scientific and social progress in Europe, as the KNAW does in the Netherlands. The network consists of some 2000 scientists, artists and administrators, including 38 Nobel Prize winners. Prior to his installation in March, we ask Bert Jan a few questions.
What does the EASA do, and what do you hope to do in it?
That is twofold. On the one hand, there is the network itself, which brings me into contact with influential scientists, policymakers and artists throughout Europe and even beyond. On the other hand, there is the goal of that network, and that is to highlight the relevance of science and art in society in Europe. I hope to contribute to that. Because the position of science and art is not self-evident in the Netherlands either, especially under the current cabinet. Science and art are also measured against the standard of return and profit maximization. That's death in the pot. I will be happy to use this network to continue to fight against that.
Membership is by invitation only. Why did they ask you?
You never know for sure, but I think it has to do with my last publication. Last year, together with David Hunter and Paul van Geest, I published the Brill Encyclopedia of Early Christianity. It is a standard work in six volumes, with about 6000 pages, on which we worked with 670 people. The publication of this encyclopedia probably gave the impetus to my membership.
You accepted the invitation, did you have to think about it for a long time?
No, accepted without hesitation: you don't reject such an honour and moreover, this academy offers new opportunities for VU Amsterdam and for my profession.
Like what?
The work within this academy is a direct extension of what I do at VU Amsterdam: doing science with an eye for the social context. When politics only wants to measure science in terms of profit and yield, it is important to emphasize the intrinsic value of our work from a scientific point of view.
You are in good company there, with Nobel Prize winners, among others. How does that feel?
Well, that takes some getting used to. I see myself as a passionate scientist, but not at the level of a Nobel Prize. I think it would be very special to experience such colleagues up close. Although you shouldn't take 'up close' too literally. There are only a few network meetings per year, most of it is done remotely. Fortunately, I can continue to do my work at VU Amsterdam.
Your official installation is in March, how do you prepare for that?
The installation takes place in Salzburg, which is a particularly chic city. I will select my best outfit and try to look as neat as possible. It will undoubtedly be a festive event, but I probably do not need to speak. And if that is expected of me, I will bring a thorough VU story that matches the profile of EASA.