Pre-Conference Session at QUIS19
Beyond the Bubble: Reimagining Service Research and Practice in a Polarized World
3 June 2025
Roma Tre University, Italy
Deadline: 30 March 2025
As societal polarization deepens, its impact on individuals and organizations is becoming more pronounced. From digital echo chambers to intergenerational divides, businesses and institutions are navigating increasingly fragmented landscapes. Addressing these challenges requires fresh perspectives and collaborative research.
That’s why Mark Scott Rosenbaum and Kristina Heinonen are hosting a pre-conference thought leadership workshop “Beyond the Bubble: Reimagining Service Research and Practice in a Polarized World” arranged in association with the QUIS19 conference on June 3. Bringing together researchers with a shared interest in understanding and addressing the challenges of polarization and fragmentation, we will discuss early-stage ideas, co-develop new research directions, and foster collaborations that extend beyond the conference.
Key themes include:
???? Bridging divides – How can services foster cohesion in fragmented societies and enable meaningful dialogue across social, political, and cultural divides?
???? Algorithmic divides – How do AI and algorithms influence consumer experiences and contribute to—or mitigate—polarization?
???? Polarized consumption – how do societal divisions shape consumer behavior and service design
They look forward to insightful discussions and the new research that will emerge from this initiative. Selected contributions will be featured in the Journal of Services Marketing.
Expressions of interest are welcome until March 31.
Presenters submit a brief abstract (250–300 words) of the research proposal or concept.
Want to learn more? Read about the workshop here.
