Potsdam

Dear members and friends of the GDNÄ,

Welcome to the 133rd Assembly of the Society of German Natural Scientists and Physicians from 12 to 15 September in Potsdam. Science characterises our lives today and science will continue to have a strong influence on our lives in the future. In Potsdam, the focus will therefore be on “Science for our lives of tomorrow”.

Since 1822, our society has been bringing together scientists and those interested in science for interdisciplinary dialogue. The GDNÄ promotes this dialogue between the public and the natural and life sciences, medicine and technology. In times when fake news and populist movements are calling science into question, it is particularly important to allow scientists to have their say.

Direct access to science is particularly important and helpful for young people. Since 2004, we have therefore been inviting students to visit our collections and engage in dialogue with the speakers. Thanks to the generous support of the Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Foundation, the AKB Foundation, the Bayer Foundation and the Family Business Foundation, we are once again able to invite 150 young people. Some of them will be on stage during the sessions this time.

Dealing with the topics at the centre of our conference requires an understanding of the insights of the natural and life sciences and enthusiasm for medicine and technology. We hope that the opportunities and new possibilities of science will be utilised for the well-being of people in the future. We say this with hope and confidence at a time when Russia’s unspeakable war of aggression against Ukraine has been going on for more than two years and Israel is fighting in Gaza against Hamas, which has murderously invaded Israel. Both wars bring endless suffering to many people.

In the 202 years since our society was founded, science has helped to improve people’s lives in many areas, be it medicine, nutrition, mobility or communication. But science also allows us to understand what mankind has done to planet Earth, the animal and plant world. It shows us what we can do to shape a better future, in the spirit of “responsible” science. We also want to talk about this in Potsdam. We look forward to seeing you.

Heribert Hofer, President of the GDNÄ