Nearly two years after Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared a turning point in the Bundestag, Germany faces ongoing challenges including the war in Ukraine, a new conflict in the Middle East, and internal political tensions. Public opinion shows a preference for Germany to take a more reserved role in international crises, with a majority opposing a military leadership role in Europe. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius advocates for Germany to become 'war-capable,' while security expert Christian Mölling discusses the government's responsibility in addressing societal war fatigue.

The article discusses the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Memorial, Center for Civil Liberties, and Ales Bialiatski, and the Nobel Prize in Literature to Annie Ernaux. It also covers Alec Baldwin's legal settlement over the accidental shooting of Halyna Hutchins and Vladimir Putin's 70th birthday celebration. The future of the Feuilleton section in media is explored, highlighting its unique role and the challenges it faces in the digital age. Key figures like Hellmuth Karasek, Marie Lina Smyrek, Wolf Schneider, and Jürgen Kaube are mentioned in the context of this discussion.

Stephan Lamby, a renowned filmmaker, offers an in-depth look at the recent power shift in German politics through his new book 'Entscheidungstage.' The article discusses the political journey of Kevin Kühnert, now SPD Vice and Bundestag member, and features insights from Alev Doğan's conversation with Kühnert and Lamby. Key political figures such as Olaf Scholz, Armin Laschet, Annalena Baerbock, and Christian Lindner are mentioned, providing a comprehensive overview of the current political landscape in Germany under the new coalition government.

Experts discuss the ongoing war of attrition between Russia and Ukraine, examining Western strategies for weapon deliveries and the lack of public dissent in Russia despite heavy losses. The conversation explores realistic scenarios for ending the war, including the possibility of placing disputed territories under international civil administration. The discussion also touches on the self-righteousness observed at a Berlin peace demonstration and highlights the significance of external values.

The article explores the concept of memory culture in Germany, with Max Czollek criticizing it as 'reconciliation theater' rather than a genuine attempt to prevent historical repetition. It also highlights the supportive actions of neighboring countries like Greece during Turkey's recent earthquake crisis, emphasizing the importance of neighborly aid despite political differences.

The ongoing debate about potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia continues to divide political and societal factions. The article emphasizes the complexity of the situation, highlighting the importance of considering various scenarios and strategies. Peace researcher Nicole Deitelhoff provides insights into the strategic delivery of weapons, the Russian populace's response to the war, and realistic scenarios for ending the conflict. The discussion also touches on the significance of external values in contemporary society.

Turkey faces significant political and economic challenges as it approaches next year's presidential and parliamentary elections. President Erdogan's ruling AKP party is experiencing record-low poll numbers, with potential opposition candidates, particularly Mansur Yavas from the CHP, showing strong support. Erdogan's administration is also under scrutiny due to corruption allegations revealed by mafia figure Sedat Peker. The country grapples with severe inflation, affecting all citizens. Despite Erdogan's unpredictable foreign policy tactics, Turkey's strategic importance to NATO remains crucial, and a departure from the alliance is deemed catastrophic for the nation. The article suggests that regardless of the election outcome, Turkey's alignment with the West is likely to persist due to economic dependencies and societal preferences.

The heart, a muscular organ essential for blood circulation, also symbolizes love, soul, and humanity. The cultural fascination with the heart, advancements in artificial heart research, and the discomfort surrounding pig heart transplants are explored. Dr. Dilek Gürsoy, a heart surgeon and expert in mechanical circulatory support systems, discusses these topics with Alev Doğan. Gürsoy, the first woman in Europe to perform an artificial heart implantation in 2012, emphasizes the importance of taking better care of our hearts, which involves more than just healthy eating and exercise.

Artificial intelligence can mimic human voices, create photomontages, and imitate famous artists so well that distinguishing between real and fake becomes challenging. However, the debate remains whether AI can truly be creative or if it is merely a tool in human hands. In this discussion, Alev Doğan talks with philosopher Dorothea Winter about the opportunities presented by AI, the concepts of Techne and Episteme, and the essence of creative creation.

CSU politician Dorothee Bär criticizes the legal recognition of sex work in Germany, describing it as paid rape. In a discussion with Alev Doğan, she advocates for a ban on purchasing sex. The conversation covers topics such as sex tourism, studies on clients, and the failure of the 2017 Prostitution Protection Act to safeguard sex workers from violence.

Germany's representative parliamentary democracy is scrutinized for its effectiveness. Amidst recent protests and calls for a societal council, the concept of aleatoric democracy, which involves selecting legislative members by lot instead of elections, is discussed by publicists Timo Rieg and Alev Doğan. This new approach proposes a system without parties, representatives, or elections.

With rising temperatures and increasing droughts, the issue of water supply is becoming more significant. Conflicts over water distribution are emerging among companies, municipalities, and citizens. Water scarcity will soon affect everyone as directly as current conflicts over gas and electricity. The discussion addresses Germany's preparedness for hot summers and dry periods and questions why there is more focus on CO2 than on the increasingly scarce resource of water.

The article explores the reasons why German-Turks tend to vote for Erdoğan, highlighting the political dynamics and cultural connections influencing their electoral choices.

The article explores the reasons behind the voting preferences of German-Turks, particularly their support for Turkish President Erdoğan. It delves into the political and social factors influencing their choices, highlighting the intersection of German and Turkish political landscapes.

Laziness, historically considered a sin in early Christianity, remains stigmatized in modern society despite its potential benefits. Alev Doğan discusses with author Bernd Imgrund the art of successful relaxation, emphasizing it as a learning process. The article also touches on the return of the Benin Bronzes and recommends the book 'Fleishman is in Trouble'. The Pioneer promotes its podcasts for the German Podcast Award 2023.

Masculinity is often seen as the root of societal issues, with terms like manspreading and toxic masculinity highlighting negative male behaviors. The current cultural zeitgeist values empathy and sensitivity, traditionally associated with femininity. However, Theresa Schouwink argues that a culture solely promoting these values becomes unbalanced. In a discussion with Alev Doğan, they explore the balance between relationship and limitation, and conformity versus individualism. The article also mentions The Pioneer's podcasts competing for the German Podcast Award 2023.

The discussion between Alev Doğan and Tyron Ricketts explores the narratives Germany tells about itself, particularly in the film industry. It highlights the lack of diversity both in front of and behind the camera, examining the power and blind spots of German storytelling and the perspectives it allows.

The miniseries 'Sam - ein Sachse' chronicles the life of Sam Meffire, the first Black policeman in East Germany, who became a media star and later a criminal. The series, based on true events, explores themes of identity, recognition, and justice. The Pioneer hosted a live screening of the first two episodes, showcasing the rise and fall of Meffire's life story.

The discussion explores the potential transformative impact of Bitcoin on the global economy and its societal implications. Alev Doğan converses with literature critic Ijoma Mangold, who shares his unexpected fascination with Bitcoin despite his usual disinterest in technology. The conversation delves into the philosophical, historical, and psychological dimensions of Bitcoin's rise.

The article explores the concept of pride from various perspectives, including its treatment in Christianity as a deadly sin and its historical view as a virtue by Aristotle. The discussion, led by Alev Doğan with theologian Henning Theißen, delves into the manifestations of healthy pride, its potential to turn narcissistic, and its dangerous political dimensions. Key topics include national pride, with references to figures like Wladimir Putin and Augustine.

Elite athletes face intense competition, pressure, and unforgiving environments, often at the expense of their mental health. In this episode of 'Der Achte Tag,' Alev Doğan interviews Olympic gymnast Kim Bui about emotional abuse, future anxieties, and self-doubt, shedding light on the psychological challenges within high-performance sports.

The article explores the challenges to our mental well-being in the context of crises, stress, and future anxieties. Science author Bas Kast discusses his new book and the steps we can take to regain inner balance, including the impact of psychedelics on mental health. The conversation with Alev Doğan covers Kast's self-experiments with ice bathing, magic mushrooms, caffeine withdrawal, and encouraging children to be more independent.

In a live discussion, Alev Doğan explores the political roots of Hip Hop in the USA with SPD leader Lars Klingbeil, Green Party leader Omid Nouripour, Wu-Tang Clan manager Eva Ries, and rapper Afrob. They examine the parallels and differences in Germany and question how much of the political origins remain today.

The article explores the challenges faced by experts in polarized public debates, particularly when their expertise is questioned or discredited. Alev Doğan interviews military expert Carlo Masala about the impact of sudden fame, threats, and politicians dismissing scientific expertise.

Explores how individuals can leverage uncertainty and unexpected events to their advantage, discussing the skills and attributes necessary to recognize new opportunities from chance. Features a conversation between Alev Doğan and Christian Busch, Director of the Global Economy Program at New York University, touching on themes of success and the role of chance.

Norbert Lammert, former President of the German Bundestag, reflects on his extensive political career and the current state of liberal democracies, populism, and German self-perception. He discusses the impact of the Ukraine conflict and the importance of not overreacting to political challenges. Lammert also critiques the declining party affiliation in Germany and the prioritization of personal interests over democratic engagement. The article includes a philosophical discussion on pacifism and self-defense, referencing historical figures and contemporary debates. Additionally, it highlights a tech briefing featuring Gülsah Wilke, founder of the 2hearts initiative, discussing the conditions necessary for startup success in Germany and Europe.

A war has broken out in Europe with Russia invading Ukraine, leading to unexpected longevity and resilience from Ukraine. Solidarity with Ukrainians is strong, but questions arise about the duration of support. The war has reignited political sharpness in migration, asylum, and refugee policy, with social tourism of refugees between Germany and Ukraine being a concern. CDU Chairman Friedrich Merz and Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann (CSU) have made statements on the capacity to accept refugees. The article discusses the state of refugee policy in Germany and Europe, and when a real plan will emerge. Gerald Knaus, head of the European Stability Initiative and an expert on flight, migration, and human rights, was interviewed about deportations, dystopias, 'Fortress Europe,' and a vision for the future of migration policy.

Alev Doğan discusses with migration researcher Gerald Knaus the challenges and dynamics of the Ukrainian refugee movement one year after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The conversation highlights the impressive resilience of Ukraine, the significant displacement of people, and the role of neighboring and partner states in providing support. The analysis also covers the fair distribution of war refugees and the lack of a strategic vision in Europe.

The discussion addresses the concurrent crises of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, energy shortages, and climate change. Alev Doğan and Norbert Lammert explore how societies can manage these crises without falling into apolitical resignation, touching on the development of liberal democracies, global populism trends, and cultural aspects such as the German affinity for cars. The conversation also includes lighter topics like the Berlinale film festival and sustainable leather.

The article discusses the polarizing topic of gendered language and its cultural implications, featuring an interview with linguist and feminist Luise Pusch. It explores the evolution of feminism from the 1980s to the present, touching on issues like sexuality, shame, prostitution, and abortion. The piece also addresses the ongoing debate over the display of female nipples on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, highlighting the Meta Oversight Board's recommendation to revise policies on nudity and sexualized content.

The discussion on the delivery of battle tanks has temporarily concluded, leaving behind a communication mess. Despite Germany being the third-largest military supporter of Ukraine, the issue lies in Chancellor Scholz's inability to fill the communication vacuum during decision-making periods. Alev Doğan converses with communication trainer Inés Hölter, dissecting Scholz's statements and analyzing the embedded information and power plays. The conversation delves into storytelling, manipulation, and the psychological impact of lacking communication.

The article discusses the challenges faced by police officers in Germany, highlighting incidents that have affected their public perception and morale. It emphasizes the importance of a functioning police force for societal stability and features insights from Sven Hüber, a senior police officer and union representative, on issues such as public confrontations, political appreciation, and post-traumatic stress.

The article discusses the challenges faced by the police in Germany, particularly in light of recent events such as the New Year's Eve operations and the protests surrounding the evacuation of the village of Lützerath. It highlights the impact of media portrayal on the police's self-image and the public's perception. Alev Doğan interviews Sven Hüber, the deputy chairman of the Police Union, covering topics like confrontations between citizens and police, the use of bulletproof vests in regular patrols, political appreciation, and post-traumatic stress disorders.

The article discusses the nature of long-term relationships with insights from psychologist and couple therapist Ursula Nuber, who emphasizes that such relationships evolve over time. It also touches on Prince Harry's memoir 'Reserve' (original title 'Spare'), published by Penguin Random House, and the author's experience of reading it, sparing readers from the 'unappetizing and inappropriate anecdotes' it contains.

The article reflects on the first week of 2023, highlighting various social and political issues in Germany, including New Year's Eve violence, integration problems, and controversial statements by public figures. It criticizes the actions and statements of several politicians and public figures, including Christoph de Vries, Ahmad Mansour, and Heinz-Peter Meidinger. The article also touches on international events, such as the behavior of FIFA President Gianni Infantino at Pelé's funeral and Prince Harry's revelations about his brother William. The author expresses a pessimistic outlook for the year 2023, hoping it will not be worse than 2022.

Explores the contemporary life and work of an evangelical pastor, focusing on the challenges of promoting the church and faith in a society with declining religious ties. Highlights the commercialization of Christmas and the struggle for meaning in times of disorientation, featuring a conversation with Pastor Josephine Teske.

The discussion explores the scientific and psychological approaches to the climate crisis, examining the balance between progress, technological enthusiasm, and a hopeful outlook on the future. It questions the validity of doomsday messages and their impact on public engagement, featuring insights from cabaret artist and physicist Vince Ebert.

Explores the concept of open relationships as an alternative to monogamous marriages, questioning whether monogamy is suitable for humans. Alev Doğan discusses these themes with psychologist and couples therapist Holger Lendt, covering topics such as fidelity, betrayal, love, and eroticism.

Jens Spahn, former Health Minister and CDU politician, reflects on his tenure during the COVID-19 pandemic, discussing his new book titled 'Wir werden einander viel verzeihen müssen'. In a podcast with Alev Doğan, Spahn talks about his emotional restraint, the challenges of admitting mistakes in politics, and his self-characterization as a Westphalian. The conversation covers his low points, narcissism, and potential aspirations for the Chancellorship.

The article discusses the concept of privilege in contemporary identity politics, questioning whether the term is used too broadly. Jörg Scheller, an author and art historian, argues that the expectation for individuals to examine their own privileges before speaking hinders open conversations. The discussion, hosted by Alev Doğan, touches on justice, responsibility, and de facto inequality despite legal equality. Additionally, the article mentions censorship at ZDF and recommends a new book about the Capitol storming.

The discussion explores the relevance and future of traditional cultural sections in newspapers in an era dominated by social media debates and discourse shifts initiated by YouTube videos and Twitter hashtags. Alev Doğan interviews Jürgen Kaube, editor of the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, covering topics such as elitist editors and the limits of inclusivity.

Alev Doğan interviews theologian and former chairwoman of the Evangelical Church in Germany, Margot Käßmann, about her pacifist stance and her call to stop arms deliveries to Ukraine. The discussion covers self-defense, the role of the evangelical church, and the concept of 'rag pacifists.'

Alev Doğan and Deniz Yücel discuss the nuances of freedom of speech, press freedom, and the distinction between factual criticism, outrage, and administrative measures. The conversation touches on the existential threats to free speech and the comfort some find in feeling persecuted for their opinions, with references to the publications Taz and Die Welt.

Explores the political dimensions behind beauty ideals with actress and director Karoline Herfurth. Features an interview with Grammy-winning film composer Harold Faltermeyer about his work on Top Gun and his life between Los Angeles and Bavaria. Renowned photographer Jim Rakete discusses the impact of success on people's behavior in front of and behind the camera.

The discussion centers on the ongoing war in Europe, questioning whether imperial ambitions drive Putin and the resurgence of imperialism. Alev Doğan and Prof. Herfried Münkler explore these themes, while Sabine Fischer analyzes the Kremlin's power structure and Putin's system, highlighting the vertical power dynamics in Moscow.

The article explores potential scenarios for Russia post-war with Ukraine, considering the likelihood of regime change in the Kremlin. Sabine Fischer, a senior researcher at the Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik, suggests that the immense pressure from the war and Western sanctions could lead to internal political changes and the end of Putin's regime. However, these scenarios are more likely to result in destabilization rather than democratization. Fischer analyzes the development of Russia's political system over the past 20 years, outlines Putin's political trajectory, and sketches the limited influence the West still holds.

The war in Ukraine has triggered a new wave of refugees, with many European countries, including Berlin, providing shelter. Philanthropist and CEO of Unterkunft Ukraine, Lukas Kunert, discusses with Alev Doğan the organization's efforts in housing traumatized refugees, the overwhelming response to the project, and the future of the initiative. The discussion emphasizes how support in major crises should be structured and how initial enthusiasm can be transformed into long-term solidarity and willingness to help.

Harald von Canstein, a biologist and energy expert, discusses the significance of CO2 and the role of fossil fuels in the future. He talks with Alev Doğan about slowing climate change and creating new habitats for humans, animals, and plants. The conversation touches on business models driven by conviction and learning from other cultures.

Explores the reasons behind feeling alienated within one's own family, discussing the causes of such estrangement and how individuals can cope without severing ties with their relatives. Highlights the broader societal implications of these personal conflicts.

Marc Wallert, who was kidnapped along with his parents by the Abu Sayyaf group in 2000, shares his insights on resilience and survival strategies in a podcast with Alev Doğan. The discussion covers his 'jungle strategies,' acceptance, optimism, and self-efficacy, offering lessons on overcoming existential crises.

Alev Doğan discusses the concept of self-actualization with musician Leslie Clio, who shares her journey from being a singer to founding her own record label. The conversation covers themes of risk assessment, courage, doubt, and faith, emphasizing the importance of taking action rather than overthinking.

Psychiatrist Borwin Bandelow discusses the nature of fear, both individual and collective, in the context of war, conflict, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He explores the political implications of fear, the inaccuracies in risk assessment, and offers strategies to overcome fear beyond arguments and statistics.

The article discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted existing problems in various sectors such as the economy, politics, and healthcare, leading to increased division and radicalization. Jean-Pierre Wils, a professor of ethics and philosophy at the University of Nijmegen, explores these issues in his new book 'Der Große Riss'. In an interview with Alev Doğan, Wils explains how thoughtfulness and a new culture of provisional solutions could pave the way for reconciliation.

Chronobiologist Achim Kramer from the Berliner Charité discusses the different sleep types—larks, owls, and doves—and how hormones and external time cues influence our sleep rhythms. In conversation with Alev Doğan, Kramer also shares his views on the transition between daylight saving time and standard time.

Genetic influences have a greater impact on children's school performance and subsequent career success than environmental factors such as the parental home and socio-cultural background, according to personality researcher and retired psychology professor Rainer Riemann from the University of Bielefeld. He presents findings from a large-scale Twin-Life study and advocates for educational and social policies that focus more on individuality than equality.

Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, a politician from the FDP, shares her experiences of 30 years in politics, particularly in the male-dominated field of security policy. She discusses moments of direct confrontation with male colleagues, setbacks in the emancipation movement, and the importance of not hastily attributing criticism of women to misogyny. By the end of the discussion, she reconsiders her stance on identifying as a feminist.

The second winter revue of 'Der Achte Tag' explores themes inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche's 'Human, All Too Human.' Prof. Aladin El-Mafaalani discusses the long-standing, inhumane system of racism. Entrepreneur Carsten Maschmeyer shares his experiences with addiction, deceit, and redemption. Hans Rusinek from the University of St. Gallen emphasizes the need for a more humane approach in a fragmented, rationalized, and globally competitive economic world, urging people not to rush.

Katja Suding, a prominent figure in the FDP and former member of the German Bundestag, discusses her unexpected decision to step down from all political roles. In a conversation with Alev Doğan, Suding reflects on the reasons behind her departure, including the lack of personal freedom, the exhausting public attention, long working hours, and questionable structures within the political system.

Professor Antje Boetius, director of the Alfred-Wegener-Institut Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, describes the deep sea as a mysterious part of the Earth's oceans, teeming with spectacular colors and life forms. In a conversation with Alev Doğan, Boetius discusses the state of the world's oceans, the impact of plastic pollution and climate change on marine ecosystems, and offers hope that sustainable tourism can harmonize human activity with nature. The podcast 'Der 8. Tag' is available exclusively for Pioneer members.

The article is an interview with members of the Rakılı Live project, discussing their music, the cultural significance of rakı, and the state of the music industry in Turkey. They touch upon the constraints commercialism places on artists and the need for resistance against producer-driven music trends. The conversation also delves into the political landscape of Turkey, referencing the Gezi Park protests and the government's crackdown on dissent. The Rakılı Live project is presented as an alternative music initiative that combines poetry with music, particularly influenced by the cultural context of drinking rakı.