Common Ground
This year’s Berlin Science Week theme, Common Ground, is more relevant than ever. In a year marked by elections and increasing concerns about misinformation and polarisation, we invite you to step out of your echo chamber, challenge your preconceptions and embrace new perspectives.
Our lively programme of events and exhibitions explores the intersections between disciplines to bring diverse viewpoints together and nurture a deeper understanding of our world. Join us to celebrate the essential role of science in fostering a collaborative, cohesive, and informed society.
SHARE YOUR VISIONS
This year, for the first time, we're offering you the chance to share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions around our guiding question, 'What’s our Common Ground?' During the festival, you can submit responses on our online platform, comment on other contributions and develop shared visions for the future. Our Future Canvas page will be available from 1 - 10 November.
TEN FESTIVAL DAYS
Below, you'll find a selection of standout events that revolve around this year's theme. Let’s come together to explore and expand our common ground.
1 & 2 Nov | from 12:00
Science Engagement: Discovering Common Ground
CAMPUS – Museum für Naturkunde Berlin
Festival Hub of Berlin Science Week
Begin your exploration into Common Ground at the bustling CAMPUS, where you can discover the people, stories and ideas at the heart of science. Dive into exhibitions, experiments and explorations across vast scientific topics, from the ethics of robots to the myths of the ocean and the questions of the universe.
3 Nov | 13:00 – 22:00
Opening & Vernissage: Exploring Common Ground
Science & Culture FORUM – Holzmarkt 25
Festival Hub of Berlin Science Week
Join us to explore the Common Ground between Science & Culture at Holzmarkt 25. Be the first to discover the big ideas of the Tiny Galleries, get experimental in creative workshops and encounter playful games, inspiring films and intriguing fireside chats.
4 Nov | 16:00 - 19:00
Science Diplomacy: Negotiating Common Ground
German Arctic Office at Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Center for Polar and Marine Research, Norwegian Embassy in Berlin
Examine the future of science diplomacy in the Arctic. Engage in discussions on shared challenges, geopolitical tensions, and the potential for renewed international cooperation in this crucial region.
5 Nov | 17:00 - 20:00
Climate & Freedom: Debating Common Ground
Deutsches Klima-Konsortium, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung
Discover how climate protection and freedom can coexist. Engage in discussions on regulation, sustainability, and the rights of future generations, then connect with experts in an intimate World Café session.
6 Nov | 12:00 - 17:30
Healthy City: Designing Common Ground
Union der deutschen Akademien der Wissenschaften
Discover how cities can foster health and well-being at the Akademientag. Engage in interdisciplinary discussions on urban living and explore innovative ideas to create healthier urban environments.
7 Nov | 11:00 - 12:30
Decision Theater: Finding Common Ground
Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, Arizona State University
Become a decision maker for a day at Decision Theater©. Use real data to simulate futures for water management, local economic, and education systems. How will you balance competing priorities and demands to create an ideal future for communities and find Common Ground?
8 Nov | 10:30 – 22:00
Art & Science Conference: Inspiring Common Ground
Science & Culture FORUM – Holzmarkt 25
Festival Hub of Berlin Science Week
Join professionals working at the intersection of art and science for a celebration of how these fields can work in harmony to drive innovation, bridge divides and build common ground. Be inspired by and connect with trailblazing practitioners, network across disciplines and find inspiration from our programme of interdisciplinary films and workshops.
9 & 10 Nov | from 12:00
Festival Weekend: Celebrating Common Ground
Science & Culture FORUM – Holzmarkt 25
Festival Hub of Berlin Science Week
Discover the synergy between art and science through workshops, film screenings and performances that celebrate the common ground between disciplines. Our eclectic programme brings many creative collaborations together to span vast topics and formats; from music in nature to the science of rave and speculative societies.