Dream and Nightmare: The Many Faces of Freedom

The concept of freedom has been central in the United States since the Declaration of Independence in 1776. More than any other term, it is deeply rooted in America’s self-image and, depending on who you are talking to, can carry very different connotations. Whether it is freedom of speech, freedom of religion, economic or individual liberty, the multifaceted concept of freedom can trigger as many conflict lines as it does common ground.

In his book "Traum und Albtraum: Amerika und die vielen Gesichter der Freiheit" (Dream and Nightmare: America and the Many Faces of Freedom), author Julian Heißler explores current contradictions and conflicts surrounding the concept of freedom in the United States.  How is freedom defined? Which topics and issues play a special role in the USA, which in Germany? Which social conflicts are uncovered by discourses on freedom? The author will discuss these and other questions with further speakers.

Whether it's freedom of speech, access to guns, or the apparent conflict between the environment and economy, Heißler's unique blend of reportage and analysis looks at the current contradictions and conflicts in the U.S. that arise from its understanding of freedom.

With:

• Julian Heißler, Author and Correspondent for Wirtschaftswoche in Washington, DC
• Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Ute Frevert, Director Center for the History of Emotions, Max Planck Institute for Human Development

Moderation: Bernd Pickert, foreign editor for the taz.

Please feel free join us afterwards for a small reception with snacks and drinks.

Contact:
Deitra Myers
Project Management EU/North America
E myers@boell.de

» Participation on site
at the the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Conference Center, Schumannstr. 8, 10117 Berlin

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» Livestream
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