Jena, September 28, 2026 – The Volkshochschule Jena and the Treffpunkt am Fichteplatz are joining forces. In the upcoming autumn semester, both institutions are jointly organizing a series of events on current topics of the time that interest and move the citizens of Jena.
- What: Kick-off of the event series with a book presentation and discussion
- Who: Volkshochschule Jena in cooperation with the Treffpunkt am Fichteplatz
- When: Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM
- Topic: Presentation of the novel “Das automatische Reich – die Zukunft beginnt jetzt” by Ralph Hammerthaler
Future scenarios in the tension of the present
The content-related kick-off of the cooperation will take place on September 30 at 6:00 PM with the presentation of Ralph Hammerthaler’s novel. Together with post-growth researcher Niko Paech, the author delves narratively and analytically into the conditions of the 21st century. The focus is on pressing questions regarding technological progress and its social consequences.
The novel’s plot outlines a scenario in which the Earth has continued to heat up, robots are firmly integrated into everyday life, and the colonization of Mars is progressing. All that remains of the European Union is an authoritarian, technologically sophisticated “Tri-State” consisting of France, Germany, and Poland. The evening event in Jena will first introduce the literary story before bridging the gap to the real present.
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Selected novels and regional literature
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Background: Education and social discourse in Jena
The Volkshochschule Jena has been a central place for adult education and public discourse in the “Lichtstadt” for decades. Through collaborations with local initiatives such as the Treffpunkt am Fichteplatz, educational offerings are brought directly into the city districts. Series on socially relevant future issues offer space for exchange between science, literature, and the citizenry.
Source:
“Das automatische Reich – die Zukunft beginnt jetzt”
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.