Universities in the crisis: Where is the respect for science?
Universities in the crisis: Where is the respect for science?
In an urgent warning, Oliver Günther, President of the University of Potsdam, addressed the worldwide crisis at universities, which is characterized by increasing skepticism of science. This skepticism was particularly reinforced by the challenges of the climate and corona crisis. According to Tagesspiegel It is increasingly difficult to communicate their essential contributions to the common good of society.
The growing opinion in parts of the population is particularly worrying that universities deal too strongly with topics such as diversity and gender research. Günther therefore emphasizes the need for improved communication with society in order to make it clear that scientific research addresses numerous social problems and offers solutions.
political tensions at universities
The political tensions at universities are increasing, which manifests, for example, in anti -Israel protests and the emergence of right -wing extremists. Günther emphasizes that universities should act as places for controversy opinions and political exchange. He himself was criticized by Prime Minister Woidke for his statements on Israeli settlement policy, but makes it clear that the right to different opinions must be preserved.
In the USA there are faults that show themselves in anti-Semitic content and overemphasizing diversity programs. Trump's attacks on science are perceived as self -destructive because they undermine the decisive contribution of the universities to the common good. This situation means that science in the United States suffers from an attractiveness for international talents.
The situation in Europe
Günther is of the opinion that Europe is relatively better positioned compared to the United States when it comes to freedom of science. Nevertheless, he urgently warns of the growing hostility to science in many countries. Freedom of science is considered fundamental to a functioning society, and it is possible for European countries to attract scientists from countries with restricted freedom of science.
An example of an autocratic system that nevertheless produces successful science is China. Despite the challenges, Günther remains optimistic that the ideals of the Enlightenment will continue to find social response and that an active defense of democratic values is essential to counter the hostility to science.
science in change
The current discussion about hostility to science is also taken up in numerous publications. Sophie G. In a focus articles, the attacks against scientists and their importance for education and democracy addresses. At the same time, Gamze Damat and Nicola Schuldt-Baumgart illuminate the historical and communicative challenges associated with skepticism of science. Covid 19 pandemic in particular has contributed to radicalization and the spread of conspiracy ideologies, as Nora Feline Pösl shows.
The tension between science, public and society remains a central topic that is also treated on panel discussions and in publications. DetailsOrt Potsdam, Deutschland Quellen
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