Utrecht University; exploration, colonial knowledge : a ‘civilizing mission’. Interview with Henk van Rinsum

Abstract

SIGNIFICANCE : This piece relays an interview with Henk van Rinsum (retired from Utrecht University). In the interview, the idea of the university as a detached space connected with the notion of the alleged objectivity of science is challenged by an “older white Dutchman attempting to offer insights on colonialism”. The interview explores the colonial historical development of a university in Western Europe as it finds its place within the entanglements of Christianity, capitalism, commerce, colonialism, and civilisation. The interview calls for a sensitive dialogue on issues of decolonisation. Are we prepared to address the ills of colonialism, given that we still seem to live under the influence of coloniality, including in higher education?