Europe

Why do Humans Exchange and Share?

Deputy Prime Minister Didier Reynders Meets the Artists

June 13th, 2016

The Goethe-Institut of Weimar organized a Kultursymposium from June 1st-3rd, 2016. For three days, at 75 different events, important guests from the worlds of business, culture and politics will discuss the subject of “Sharing and Exchange” as a universal foundation of human cultural practice, revealing their new ideas and proposals.

The symposium is held every two years to discuss global social issues. This year the symposium will focus on the question "Why do humans exchange and share?". Different events have been organized at 15 venues in Weimar within the span of 3 days, which were complemented by fish-bowl discussions, exchange performances and other artistic interventions. Apart from contributions from major international artists, scientists and visionaries, the Weimar program will also provide further insights from worldwide based on the theme of the Symposium.

The Project Leader of Kultursymposium Weimar underlined the importance of discussing this timeless issue affirming that "human existence is realized in sharing and exchange, not only in trading goods for mutual benefit, but primarily to establish, maintain and deepen relations with others”. He further added that "exchanging and sharing are existential needs and anthropological constants, communicative and social gestures that are meant to give life meaning.”

Speakers that took part in the opening of the Kultursymposium have included the Czech economist Tomáš Sedláček and the American social theorist and bestselling author Jeremy Rifkin. The events took place at various locations across Weimar, including the Oberlichtsaal at Bauhaus University and the E-Werk.

Against the background of migration, flight and growing inequality, sharing different values and ideas can represent a useful strategic tool for bringing people closer. This is mutually beneficial for both people and the planet.

References

Cultural Diplomacy News
Jessica Sama, CD News