Max-von-Laue-Lecture (in English language)

In 2000, the DPG initiated a lecture series in honour of Max von Laue. The physicist and Nobel Prize winner, who was President of the German Physical Society from 1931 to 1933, was extraordinarily active in the field of human rights between 1933 and 1945. The Max von Laue Lectures take place as part of the DPG Annual Meetings and are given by scientists who are distinguished by their strong political or social commitment.

Thursday, 13 March 2025, 20:00, HS 1+2

Karen Hallberg, Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs, Bariloche, Argentina
is speaking about

“What can we, scientists, do to reduce the increasing threats posed by nuclear weapons and other emerging technologies.”

Abstract:

The Pugwash Conferences for Science and World Affairs were founded as a consequence of the Russell-Einstein Manifesto of 1955, which urged leaders of the world to gather and to ”think in a new way”: to renounce nuclear weapons, to ”remember their humanity” and to find peaceful means for the settlement of all matters of dispute between them.

Under the currently increasing geopolitical tensions, the original Russell-Einstein Manifesto’s call is as relevant today as it was in the 1950’s. Scientists have an important role in analyzing technical aspects in verification, safeguards, dismantlement of nuclear weapons and ways to rid the world of these weapons of mass destruction. A sound scientific input is also necessary to assess the effects of AI and quantum technologies and to comply with the UN recent resolution to evaluate the consequences of nuclear war. Critical thinking, including rational and evidence-based argumentation are also crucial for decision-making.

In summary, the talk will emphasize the fundamental role scientists play in building peace and understanding in a complex and fragmented world.

 

The Max-von-Laue-Lecture is open to all conference participants and the interested public. Admission is free and registration for the conference is not necessary.