The Emic - Episode 2: Oskar Verkaaik on what the real function of the interior of a mosque is

In this episode, anthropologist Oskar Verkaaik describes his research on the designs and interiors of mosques in the Netherlands. He shares how he aimed to understand why mosques almost always look more or less the same, both inside and out - at least, that's what he had read in literature and what many designers had told him. According to them, a mosque should resemble a reminder of the country of origin of its visitors. There seemed to be some truth in that, until an imam made him realize a completely different function of the appearance of a mosque. Listen here to the story of Dr. Oskar Verkaaik.   Oskar Verkaaik teaches anthropology at the University of Amsterdam. He has published widely on a range of topics, including ethnic-religious politics in Pakistan, secularism and cultural citizenship in the Netherlands, contemporary religious architecture, and heritage breeds in the context of sustainable dairy-farming. He is currently working on invasive species politics.    For more information about Roanne: www.anthropologyofthefuture.com    If you want to receive additional photos from the field, personal drawings and behind-the-screens information accompanying the episodes of The Emic, subscribe to Roanne's free newsletter: www.anthropologyofthefuture.com/the-emic