How Images of Conflict Shape us: An Interview with Christina Hainzl

In an interview in Upgrade magazine published by the University for Continuing Education Krems, cultural scientist Christina Hainzl, head of the university’s Research Lab Society in Transition / SDGs, outlined the impact of visual imagery on political and societal perceptions.

By discussing case studies ranging from Syrian political iconography to European responses to Middle Eastern conflicts, Hainzl demonstrated how visual narratives shape democratic processes and trust. She highlights the necessity for enhanced visual literacy—the capacity to critically interpret visual materials—to effectively recognize anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim stereotypes prevalent in contemporary art and media.

The interview explores visual metaphors and stereotypical portrayals within democratic and authoritarian systems, analysing their influence on public opinion, media discourses and societal reactions to conflict. Hainzl argues for closer integration of academic research and policymaking to facilitate informed discourse among scholars, policymakers and the public, ultimately contributing to democratic resilience and stability in the face of global challenges.

You can find the full interview (in German) HERE and download the complete magazine issue HERE.

Photo: Walter Skokanitsch