Outlooks into the future
Outlooks into the future
„The only constant in life is change” – this quote, attributed to the Greek philosopher Heraclitus, sums up the fact that processes of change are a constant part of human life. At the University of Oldenburg, too, research is constantly being conducted on socially relevant topics of the future. For the annual research magazine „Einblicke”, scholars of all faculties of the university outline scenarios for important social issues. We collect these for you to read on this page.
Outlooks from the year 2025
From the future of religious education to the question of how we can save the coral reefs and our future view of nature - Oldenburg scientists have also addressed pressing questions about the future in "Insights" No. 70.
How will religion be taught in schools in the future?
In Germany, religious education is enshrined in the Basic Law. However, in view of growing secularisation and pluralisation, religious education will have to change, according to religious education expert Joachim Willems.
How is our view on nature changing?
Our relationship with nature is constantly changing. Myriam Gerhard, professor of Critical Philosophy of Nature, encourages an open debate about our attitude towards nature.
What migration policy does the skilled labour market need?
Ayça Polat, university professor for Social Pedagogy in the Migration Society, warns against a one-sided critical view on migration and emphasises the role of migrants in the skilled labour market in Germany.
When will AI make your diagnosis?
Nils Strodthoff, professor of Artificial Intelligence in Health, sees great potential in the use of AI for medical purposes – provided that strict system standards are applied.
Who creates the future?
Martin Butler, professor of American Studies: Literary and Cultural Studies and director of the research centre "Genealogy of the Present", explains how visions of the future are created.
Outlooks from the year 2024
Sustainable products, the role of social media in political communication, and the question of when cancer will lose its terror – Oldenburg researchers addressed these and other big questions in „Einblicke” No. 69.
When will cancer become less frightening?
A cancer diagnosis is a devastating blow for those affected. But oncologist Frank Griesinger sees progress in cancer treatment. And he says more innovations are likely – especially with regard to more and more individualised cancer treatments.
How can we make products more sustainable?
Economist Christian Busse asserts that regulation is the best means of transitioning from a throwaway society to a circular economy. He believes that governments must ensure that corporate and societal interests are aligned.
How is social media changing political communication?
Social media will continue to have a significant impact on society and politics, according to sociologist Marius Sältzer. Furthermore, he anticipates that polarised debates could potentially hinder the formation of a government.
Is there a future for regional languages?
Germanist Doreen Brandt believes that languages, much like living creatures, are capable of evolving and adapting to meet changing communicative needs. She is convinced: Low German has a future – and is going to change further along the way.
How can education become more equitable in the digital world?
The federal German education system is characterised by significant variations in the level of equipment available in schools. Education researcher Felicitas Macgilchrist recommends the integration of tablets and apps to enhance pupil participation.
Outlooks from the year 2023
What will the world be like 50 years from now? To mark the university's 50th anniversary, Oldenburg researchers have outlined different scenarios with a focus on key social issues, initiating the „outlooks” series. The texts were first published in the research magazine „Einblicke” No. 68.
How will ageing change in the coming years?
Children who don't live nearby, a shortage of skilled nursing staff and people who are getting older and older: Geriatrician Tania Zieschang is convinced that ageing faces new challenges, but also opportunities.
How will healthcare change in the years to come?
The healthcare system is facing major changes, says Hans Gerd Nothwang, Dean of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He is convinced that digitalisation will have a significant impact on that.
How can science fulfil its social responsibility?
More freedom, more courage for unusual ideas – this is what Katharina Al-Shamery would like to see in Germany’s science system in the future. She believes this will lead to real innovation.
How can we reduce social inequalities?
More equal opportunities in the education system are essential for the future of our society, says social scientist Gundula Zoch. Reforms are urgently needed to increase participation.
How will the war against Ukraine change Europe?
Russian troops have been attacking Ukraine since February 2022. The war has shattered the peace order in Europe. Malte Rolf, professor for Eastern European history, ventures an outlook on how the conflict will change the continent in the long term:
What is the future of teaching and learning in higher education?
All universities face the challenge of making their courses more flexible, says Olaf Zawacki-Richter, expert in learning with new technologies. He addresses the question of when digital teaching offers real added value.
