Thomas Gottlöber invites active engagement and scientific exchange
At a time when the foundations of democracy are being put to the test and populist movements are on the rise worldwide, it is more important than ever to stand up for the values of freedom and democracy. As a renowned academic publisher, we feel obliged to take a clear stance and create a space for open dialogue. We are therefore delighted to present Thomas Gottlöber’s editorial as part of our democracy campaign Quo vadis, Demokratie?
Science, democracy and freedom
“Thirty-five years ago, millions of people in the GDR stood up for democracy, freedom and human rights. Peacefully, they succeeded in turning away from a dictatorship that had caused much suffering in its 40-year history. A year that was a reason to celebrate, especially for my family, as we were finally able to embrace our relatives on the other side of the border again. 40 years earlier, on 24 May 1949, the Basic Law came into force – the basis for our democracy.
As one of the leading scientific publishers in Germany, Nomos Verlag would like to focus this year on raising awareness of the importance of democracy and scientific understanding in society. We want to motivate people to actively participate in democratic processes and to stand up for freedom and the values of democracy.
We live in a time of great challenges. Democracy and freedom are not static concepts, but living principles that need to be nurtured and reshaped every day. Authoritarian tendencies and populist movements are on the rise – in the world, in Europe and in Germany. It is therefore more crucial than ever to defend the fundamental values of our society.
Science has a crucial role to play here: science is more than just a collection of facts and theories. It is a process based on the critical examination of evidence and the disclosure of truth. Informed citizens are the basis of a functioning democracy.
As a science publisher, we have a special responsibility to promote and protect these values. By disseminating scientifically sound knowledge and promoting open discourse, we help to strengthen the foundations of our democracy. Ultimately, it is up to all of us to defend and further develop freedom and democracy.
In this context, we will be publishing a large number of interviews, webinars and articles over the next few months with the help of our outstanding authors. And as befits a democracy: let’s discuss and wrestle for the best solutions on how we can preserve and shape democracy and freedom.”
Thomas Gottlöber, Managing Director of Nomos Verlagsgesellschaft