A New Renaissance for Europe

Challenges of Science, Arts, and Innovation in the Spirit of European Humanism

“We need platforms of interdisciplinary dialogue to choose transdisciplinary problems and to cluster new portfolios of innovations. Integrating natural and engineering sciences with arts and humanities can only be realized if the research training programs generate considerable value in terms of multidisciplinary experience, international networking, scientific and entrepreneurial know-how, and humanities.”

In today’s globalized world, nations’ economic growth and prosperity rely heavily on fundamental innovations. This means that education and knowledge play a crucial role in the competitive advantage of highly developed countries with high salary standards but limited natural resources. In the 21st century, innovations will emerge from research focusing on solving real-world problems, transcending traditional academic disciplines. “To achieve this, we need platforms for interdisciplinary dialogue that address transdisciplinary issues such as environment, energy, information, AI, health, and welfare and foster the development of new innovative solutions. Integrating natural and engineering sciences with arts and humanities can only be achieved if research training programs, like graduate schools, provide significant added value in multidisciplinary experiences, international networking, scientific and entrepreneurial expertise, and humanities knowledge,” points out Professor Dr Mainzer.

Historically, Europe has been a substantial source of scientific, technological, economic, and cultural advancements. However, Europe now faces competition from other political and ethical systems worldwide. The shifting balance of power in Asia, Russia, Africa, and America has led to tensions and conflicts. In this context, Europe must focus on its strengths as a center of innovation and culture. The creativity of its people in science, technology, business, and culture should be Europe’s driving force. Despite the increasing automation of work through artificial intelligence, it is essential to recognize that people and their creativity remain the ultimate driving force and bear the responsibility.

Drawing on Mainzer’s experience in foundational research and institutional leadership, he will, in his talk, present the dynamics of innovation for Europe within the framework of the democratic legal constitution deeply rooted in European humanism since ancient times.