Between Doubt and Confidence - Thoughts on Democracy, Fear and Hope
In a time full of challenges and change, I would like to share a few thoughts - about democracy, fear and how we can maintain hope. May we all find clarity, confidence and positive perspectives in the new year. 🌟

✨ Merry Christmas! 🎄
Democracy and its vulnerability: Democracy allows for alternatives - that makes it strong, but also vulnerable. Doubts about it are normal, but it is precisely these doubts that can help us to protect it.
The culture of fear in Germany: Fear is part of the political culture in Germany, more so than in many other countries. But instead of allowing ourselves to be paralysed, we should learn to deal with uncertainty.
The influence of news: Our brains do not distinguish between images from Tel Aviv and those from the neighbourhood. Constant floods of news overwhelm us and fuel our fears.
Information hygiene as a solution: Less is more. Our attention is limited - why waste it? Consciously select news, reduce the flood of news and focus on what is really relevant. Concentrate on what concerns you directly and live your own life in between.
Tips for more information hygiene:
- Consume news consciously and to a limited extent - e.g. in the morning and evening.
- Favour local and regional news that directly affects you.
- Focus on formats that explain instead of fuelling fears.
Recognise positive developments: We have already achieved a lot - from falling suicide rates to increasing use of renewable energies. Small steps lead to big changes.
Conclusion: retain hope: The future is not predetermined. If we focus on positive developments and take responsibility, we can actively shape it.