Gender research in the humanities and cultural studies has an interdisciplinary orientation. It addresses the question: How does gender gain cultural and social effect? Gender studies is able to demonstrate that, in interacting with others, we always ascribe a gender to them and that we ourselves are assigned one. These ascriptions shape our behaviour. In the process, gender positions are tied into a complex value system that permeates our work and life. Gender and Diversity studies investigates the interactions of gender with additional socially influential differences. Contemporary social diversity can be interpreted as a potential and valuable resource; yet it should not be forgotten that difference is often accompanied by inequalities of opportunity.