De Bruin's research focuses on the influence of sociocultural norms on cognitive functioning. "The starting point is that cognitive functioning is a relational concept that cannot be understood solely in terms of a person's psychological and neurobiological abilities.’ The professor wants to challenge common assumptions about what constitutes as normal and abnormal functioning. 'I want to create recognition and appreciation of the perspective of a neurodivergent person. I think this is an important task for universities. I will also focus on practical questions, such as the design of the educational environment and promoting student participation.'
About Léon de Bruin
Léon de Bruin (Nijkerk, 1979) studied Philosophy and Psychology at VU University Amsterdam and Leiden University. He received his PhD in philosophy cum laude from Leiden University with an interdisciplinary research on the embodiment and situatedness of social cognition. He then became a postdoc at the Ruhr University of Bochum. In September 2012, he started as associate professor of philosophy of cognition and language at Radboud University, where he is now a professor.