The Philosophical Café in the Blue Note cultural lounge is dedicated to socially relevant topics, which are examined from a philosophical perspective by the four retired professors Harald Kerber, Reinhold Mokrosch, Arnim Regenbogen and Elk Franke. The format is aimed at all interested citizens, regardless of their theoretical or practical knowledge of philosophy. It is intended to encourage philosophizing and reflection and facilitate discussions between the guests.

Sunday, 15 September 2024, start: 11:30 am:
Self-determined life - self-determined death?
How is a self-determined life fulfilled?
Can there also be a self-determined death? Does a decision to die also depend on our standards for the self-determination of life? Many answer: Only the respective life and suffering situation of the person concerned can be decisive for a willingness to die.
However, it is not only those who want to leave life who are affected, but also those who are asked for help in dying. Since February 2020, the Federal Constitutional Court has permitted third-party assistance in "self-determined" dying in individual cases. Should we be allowed to help? Are we allowed to help? What is this decision based on? A federal law on this must be passed in the Bundestag by July 2024.


Sunday, November 3, 2024, start: 11:30 a.m.
On dealing with our everyday world
Our actions in everyday life are determined by permanent choices in which we have to decide on a path, like at a crossroads. However, it often remains unclear on what basis these decisions are made. Philosophy has provided many explanations for this in its history. The concept of explanatory "knowledge" for the rational and consciously acting human being is of central importance. It often remains unclear to what extent practical "ability" takes precedence over explanatory "knowledge" in these decision-making processes (e.g. cycling). When do we not only look for truth-relevant explanations, but also for efficient practical experience? The aim is to discuss which experiences we use to regulate our everyday lives and how these can be justified.


Sunday, December 8, 2024, start: 11:30 a.m.
How do we deal with resources?
Earthly nature and its products, the sun's rays and their energy, the weather and the earth's "raw materials" determine our chances of living. But should we only use them as tools for our well-being? Which resources could and should we do without? Under discussion are benchmarks for nature conservation and animal welfare, for climate change and for the survival of humanity - even for life in the distant future.

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