by Ursula Mathis-Moser

The following article is based on a speech given by the author, Ursula Mathis-Moser, on the occasion of the "Austrian Celebration Symposium" in Ottawa, 21 May 2005.

Building bridges. Thoughts on the mechanisms of intercultural transfer
Building bridges, to begin with a metaphor, is a complex enterprise. It presupposes a few but indispensable elements such as solid ground on both sides, participants willing to construct pillars and pathways, and the determination to use these newly created lofty roads for an exchange of people and of goods. In a strange way, the image I have chosen to start my speech (1) with resembles the process I will be reflecting upon – that is the establishment and the functioning of transatlantic exchanges between universities in Austria and Canada. However, before risking my foot on our imaginary bridge of scientific and cultural transfer, it seems advisable to examine the solidity of the ground destined to support the pillars and to briefly reflect on parallels and possible common concerns.

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