Max Planck President to speak at Munich March for Science
The global March for Science campaign is a celebration of science, emphasizing the key role that science plays in society and politics.
The Science March, initiated in the USA, is set for April 22 in many places across the world, including several German cities. In Munich, where the Max Planck Society's Administrative Headquarters are located, the President of the Max Planck Society, Martin Stratmann, will participate in the rally alongside staff members of the research organization.
With regard to the event, Stratmann explains: "We are living in a time when things which had been self-evident are suddenly being questioned. The freedom of science is being questioned internationally - this is also the case in Europe. And although science in the 21st century – in the face of urgent global challenges such as climate change, the preservation of biodiversity, or the fight against infectious diseases – is more important than ever, we feel that evidence-based knowledge is increasingly under pressure. This is unacceptable not only for science, but also for civil societies. We have a responsibility. The March for Science is the opportunity to make this responsibility visible".
The March for Science in Munich on April 22 will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Karlsplatz (Stachus), proceeding to Odeonsplatz and ending with a closing rally at Siegestor, where various speakers are expected.
In Frankfurt, where scientists from the MPI for Chemistry are participating, the "March of Science" begins at 1 pm at the "Bockenheimer Warte".
Under the motto"For Free Science and Facts-Based Policy" the organizers call upon scientists and citizens to take to the streets and jointly stand up for the values and endurance of evidence-based and free science. "With the March for Science, we want to focus attention on science and its achievements," says Randolph Caldwell, who organizes the Munich March for Science. "Everyone who is concerned about the careful distinction between verified facts and personal opinion is invited to take part in this worldwide demonstration for research and science."
"Global movement for science" - People were taking to the streets on the March for Science in more than 500 towns around the world.