Prof. Dr. Hans-Joachim Hoffmann-Nowotny † (1934-2004) was professor in ordinary of the SUZ from 1975 to 2004 and director from 1983 on for almost 15 years. He studied at the University of Cologne, received his doctorate in 1969 and habilitated in 1973. His research focused on the sociology of minorities and migration as well as sociocultural determinants and consequences of socio-demographic development. Hoffmann-Nowotny dealt with the changes in marriage and family, forms of life and lifestyle and was devoted to the advancement of general sociological theory. From 1996 to 2002, he was president of the «World Society Foundation».