Berlin Science Week 2024 Explores ‘Beyond Now’ with Art, AI, and Bold Ideas
Berlin Science Week, an annual event focusing on the intersection of science and society, returns this November. In its 10th year, the event has expanded significantly, attracting a wide range of participants and visitors. This year's theme, 'Beyond Now', explores how science can tackle current crises and shape the future. The week-long event features innovative research, art installations, and thought-provoking discussions.
The event, hosted by the Falling Walls Foundation, has grown from 35 events a decade ago to an impressive 350 this year. It aims to engage new segments of the population and strengthen democracy through innovative participatory strategies. Berlin's Senator for Science, Ina Czyborra, hopes the event can achieve the broad appeal of the Green Week agricultural fair.
Berlin Science Week will showcase a variety of scientific disciplines, from 'sensitive' textiles that eliminate the need for physical switches and buttons to underwater sound sculptures demonstrating the healing effect of healthy coral reefs on damaged ecosystems. Artist Marco Barotti will unveil 'Coral Sound Resilience' at the event. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will also take center stage, with unexpected presentations like the digital Albert Einstein at the Natural History Museum.
The event seeks to revitalize 'lost places' in Berlin. This year, it plans to transform the former Cold War spy hill, Teufelsberg, into a platform for exchange and education. The initiative 'Teufelsberg Campus', consisting of various artists, scientists, and citizens, is leading this transformation.
Funded by the Berlin Senate with €630,000 this year, Berlin Science Week expects to draw around 35,000 visitors, as it did last year. The event continues to grow, offering a unique platform for scientific exploration, artistic expression, and public engagement. By focusing on 'Beyond Now', it encourages attendees to look beyond current challenges and imagine a sustainable future.
