Future Scenarios
of the Good Life
A course designed to explore the quality of existence, individual and collective well-being, and responsibility toward future generations, within an interdisciplinary framework that brings together philosophy, social sciences, gastronomy, and ecology.
LANGUAGE
Italian
DURATION
3 DAYS
DATE
11-13 June
LOCATION
Pollenzo
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
15 maggio
COST
750€ + IVA 22%
The 2026 Summer School, born from the scientific collaboration between the Scienza Nuova Research Centre of the University of Turin and the University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo, aims to explore the theme of the good life in its deepest dimension: the quality of existence, individual and collective wellbeing, responsibility towards future generations.
In an interdisciplinary context that brings together philosophy, social sciences, gastronomic studies, ecology, and cultural innovation. The school is aimed at students, researchers, professionals, and citizens interested in rethinking the concept of quality of life from an intergenerational perspective. Through lectures, workshops, sensory experiences, and moments of dialogue, participants will be invited to reflect on:
- the meaning of the “good life” today,
- the role of emotions, embodied knowledge and daily practices,
- the ethical and political challenges related to sustainability, care and intergenerational justice.
The Summer School will also be an opportunity to highlight the most advanced research on well-being and quality of life in dialogue with the cultural and gastronomic heritage of the territory.
Scientific collaboration between two universities
Interdisciplinary approach
Experiences across two locations: Turin and Pollenzo
Lectures, hands-on workshops, and sensory experiences
WHY UNISG?
- A unique educational experience that combines scientific rigor, hands-on experimentation, and immersion in the territory
- Faculty and experts who bring current perspectives and specialized expertise on the food system
- An exclusive setting in Pollenzo, where the educational experience intertwines with the gastronomic culture of the Langhe
- Access to the laboratories, facilities, and international community of the university
In Collaboration With
Program
Scienza Nuova, Turin
INTRODUCTION: WHAT IS THE GOOD LIFE?
Tiziana Andina, Lectio Magistralis: The Good Life Between Philosophy and Public Policy
Giulio Sacco (UniTo), Elena Casetta (UniTo), Dario Padovan, Erica Onnis, Panel Discussion: Quality of Life: Indicators, Perceptions, Experiences
Simona Stano (UniTo), Workshop: Food, Body, and (Discourses of) Health
Scienza Nuova, Torino (mattina)
Scienza Nuova, Turin (Morning)
ECONOMICS, WELFARE, AND SOCIAL INNOVATION
Maurizio Ferraris, Lectio Magistralis: Models of Welfare and Quality of Life
Pauldin Lawrence, Carlo Genova (UniTo), Costanza Penna (UniTo), Panel Discussion: The Good Life as a Shared Project: Generations, Communities, Social Transformations
Departure after lunch to Pollenzo
University of Pollenzo (Afternoon)
QUALITATIVE INTELLIGENCE AND THE ONE HEALTH APPROACH
Nicola Perullo (Rector, UNISG), Lectio Magistralis: The Quality of Thought: Artisanal Intelligence, Conviviality, Wisdom
Andrea Devecchi (UNISG), Flavio D'Abramo (UNISG), Chiara Flora Bassignana (UNISG), Panel Discussion: One Health and Quality of Life
Experiential Dinner at the Tavole Accademiche: Perception at the Intersection of Food and Sound: an Immersive Sensory Experience, curated by Riccardo Migliavada (UNISG)
University of Pollenzo
ATMOSPHERES, RIGHTS, EMOTIONS
Elena Mancioppi (UNISG), Workshop: Air and Quality of Life: Scents, Atmospheres, Food, and Memory
Elena Corcione (UNISG), Workshop: The Right to Quality
Maddalena Borsato (UNISG), Experiential Lab: Exercises in Mindful Pastry: Between Emotions and Practices
Costs and Discounts
Participation fee: € 750+ 22% VAT covering lessons, workshops, tastings, field visit, 4 lunches, 1 dinner and transport for the visit. Accommodation not included.
Early bird: €600 for those who complete their registration by 28 February 2026.
Available discounts: 20% for UNISG students and alumni, Partner Companies and Slow Food members. 10% for double registration. Discounts cannot be combined.
Summer School participants are entitled to a €500 reduction on the tuition fee of selected university courses and master's programmes.
How to Enroll
Once you have submitted your online application, you will receive an email asking you to proceed with the payment of the deposit (€180, VAT included). Receipt of the deposit will complete the application process and confirm your place at the Summer School.
Waiting list: If the number of applications exceeds the available places (20 participants per School), candidates will be added to a waiting list. Should a place become available, those on the waiting list will be notified.
Final payment: The second instalment (the full cost minus the deposit) can be paid at any time, but must be settled at least 1 month before the start of the course. Those who prefer may also pay the full amount in a single payment.
Failure to pay the full fee by the deadline will result in the loss of the place, which will be offered to the next candidate on the waiting list.
Refunds: Should the course not reach the minimum number of participants (10 participants per School), the deposit (€180, VAT included) will be returned to those who have paid it. Please note that the deposit will not be refunded under any other circumstances.
Cancellations: If you have already paid the second instalment and wish to cancel your participation, you must notify us by email at summerschool@unisg.it at least 1 month before the start of the course. In this case, 50% of the total amount paid will be refunded. After this date, no refunds will be issued for cancellations.