Ariadne von Schirach joins Elevate on Thursday 5th of March. She will talk about the theses of her book "Psychotische Gesellschaft" and takes part in a discussion panel "Quo Vadis Humanity?".
Free entry at the Festival location Forum Stadtpark! -> Full programme info.
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Elevate's Festival theme 2020 is "Human Nature". What's your second thought about it?
It is really about time to think about our relationship with nature and how we interact with it. Starting with questioning the antique distinction between nature and culture. Because nature is not „somewhere out there“. It is always here, with us, in the air we breathe, in the trees on our streets, in the rain.
And your first?
That it is time to think about the role our species is going to play on this planet. We can no longer perceive ourselves as crown of creation, We are just a very powerful and therefore very responsable species among species. This new understanding of our duties and limitations can be described as a finally enlighted enlightment that transcends the anthropocentric illusion for new experiences of companionship and co-creation.
Quo Vadis Humanity? In 2009 Elevate's main theme was the climate crisis. 10 years have passed. What's your take on the next 10?
We do not need a new world, but a new and more realistic consciousness of all that is. The actual cisis is an invitation to contemplate the why. Why are we here? What is a life worth living? How can we coexist peacefully and fruitfully with eachother and with everything that is around us?
The relationship of humans and technology - more reasons to be pessimistic or optimistic? Can you name some?
Technology is what we make of it and how we use it. It can enhance connection or alienation and exploitation. We should all be hackers for love, and use media and technology to create beauty and meaning.
And our relationship with nature? Of course we are "part of it", but....where are we going?
We are going to have a long chat. And say sorry. And clean up. But first we should listen.
"Psycho-spiritual crisis", "a psychotic society",... How bad is the status quo of humanity?
Every crisis is an invitation to rethink and reevaluate. Every moment is new. There is always hope. I believe in our creativity, in young people and in the future.
A message to the Elevate Festival community? What can we do?
Be the change you want to see. Take the very place life has put you in and leave it cleaner and lighter. And be happy, not in a superficial way, but in an existential way. Life is short. We are all gonna die. It is a gift to be here, together, and we should not forget to enjoy the fuck out of it.
Elevate features many amazing artists in the music & arts programme. Can we meet you on the Dancefloor too?
Maybe.
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Ariadne von Schirach joins Elevate on Thursday 5th of March. She will talk about the theses of her book "Psychotische Gesellschaft" and takes part in a discussion panel "Quo Vadis Humanity?".
Free entry at the Festival location Forum Stadtpark! -> Full programme info.
