Dr. Lars Behrisch

Biography

Lars Behrisch is an Associate Professor in the field of Political History at Utrecht University. His research interests primarily revolve around early modern comparative European history, focusing on the political culture, history of religion, urban history, crime history, and identity histories in Europe. Behrisch's current research endeavors are concentrated on a long-term comparative study regarding the genesis of democracy in Europe and America, particularly during the Middle Ages through the late 18th century, termed the ‘Age of Revolutions’. His findings are set to be published in a monograph titled ‘Democracy’s Double Helix' by Cambridge University Press in 2025. Since joining Utrecht University in 2009, Behrisch has contributed to significant academic dialogue through his PhD research, which dealt with crime and social control within late medieval and early modern urban contexts. He is also notable for his publication on the political cultural implications of the use of statistics in the 18th century, especially in France and Germany, for which he received the 'Carl Erdmann Preis' from the German Historians' Association. Alongside his colleagues, he has established the research discussion platform ‘Futures Democracy’ within Utrecht University's strategic theme of Institutions and Open Societies, aiming to enhance the global role of democratic discourse.

Research Interests