Newly appointed director of the Einstein Forum acknowledged by Minister, expressing gratitude towards Neiman
Kickin' it with Carlos Fraenkel at the Einstein Forum
Get ready, folks! The Einstein Forum has a new sheriff in town, and his name is Carlos Fraenkel. Hailing from the lecture halls of McGill University in Montreal, Canada, this German-Brazilian philosopher is set to take over as Director starting July 1, 2026, effectively ending Susan Neiman's 25-year reign.
The Brandenburg Ministry of Science made the announcement with nothing but praises for Fraenkel, describing him as a "renowned scientist" with a knack for making even the most complex scientific topics palatable for everyone. Brandenburg's Minister of Science, Manja Schüle (SPD), couldn't contain her excitement. "I appreciate his approach that philosophy plays a vital role in shaping public and political discourse, fostering critical thinking and understanding across cultural and religious boundaries," said Schüle.
Born in 1971, Fraenkel is no stranger to the international academic scene. With roots in Germany and a dominant presence in the academic world of Canada, this man's influence transcends borders. His appointment aligns with the Einstein Forum's goal of promoting international scientific collaboration and dialogue between the sciences, arts, and religious cultures.
Now, it's time to bid adieu to Susan Neiman, our fearless leader since 2000. Neiman has been steering the ship of this Potsdam-based think tank, aiming to garner international prestige and pushing for open, critical, and interdisciplinary discussions on contemporary issues. The Brandenburg Minister of Science expressed deep gratitude for Neiman, who turned 70 this year. "She has ensured that the house has gained a profile in all areas and made a name for itself internationally," said Schüle.
In her recent statements, Neiman has been vocal about the criticisms facing Israel's military actions in the Gaza Strip. "Until recently, I was disheartened that anything would change in Germany. But I believe the change might be due to the cruel events in Gaza," she told the Süddeutsche Zeitung.
Stay tuned as we welcome Carlos Fraenkel to the Einstein Forum family and witness the next chapter in this intellectual journey!
Carlos Fraenkel, the new Director of Einstein Forum, is renowned for his ability to simplify complex scientific topics, fostering a sense of workplace-wellness and health-and-wellness by making them more accessible to everyone. His appointment reflects the forum's commitment to international scientific collaboration, bridging the gap between the sciences, arts, and religious cultures.
In contrast, Susan Neiman, the outgoing Director, has been vocal about politics, voicing her criticisms of Israel's military actions in the Gaza Strip. Her leadership has ensured the Einstein Forum's international prestige and has been instrumental in promoting open, critical, and interdisciplinary discussions on contemporary issues.
As we move forward, it is important to acknowledge the role of mental health in both personal and global contexts, such as in addressing war and conflicts. The work of philosophers like Fraenkel can contribute to this by shaping public and political discourse, fostering critical thinking and understanding across cultural and religious boundaries.
General news and the ongoing developments in the world will continue to shape our societal values and thus require the input of intellectual leaders like Carlos Fraenkel and Susan Neiman. Their contributions will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of our time and nurturing a collective consciousness that prioritizes health, wellness, and peace.