How do we want to live in the future?

How do we want to live in the future? In light of the climate crisis, artificial intelligence, societal changes, and new challenges to democracy and social cohesion, this question is becoming increasingly important. In the lecture series “Knowledge roundtable Utopias” , Bochum-based scholars join the audience in exploring what kind of future is possible. Always based on concrete research and the latest scientific findings. This creates new spaces for thought that open up new perspectives and inspire hope: for the Bochum of tomorrow and a future worth living.

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Every month: new question, new guest

Even after the summer break, the public lecture series “Knowledge roundtable Utopias,” organized by UniverCity Bochum e.V., vhs Bochum, and the City Library, will continue. In this series, we will join Bochum-based scholars each month in 2026 to explore how we would like to live in the future. Admission to all events is free.

Knowledge Round dates (October – December)

The events begin at 6 p.m. at the Querenburg Public Library (Querenburger Höhe 270, 44801 Bochum). Admission to all events is free of charge.

Urban Utopias and the Psyche –  what might health-promoting cities look like?

October 15, 2026

with Prof. Dr. Anna Mikhof (Bochum University of Applied Sciences)

Note: The speaker will join the event remotely. You can participate either online via Zoom (you’ll receive the access link after registering) or in person at the Querenburg Public Library, where the talk will be streamed live.

Digital Utopias – how can we reclaim TikTok and other platforms for solidarity and justice?

November 19 2026

with Prof. Dr. Julia Bee (Ruhr University Bochum)

News Utopias – how can we use AI to stay informed about our city?

December 17 2026

with Jasmin Baake (Center for Advanced Internet Studies)

 

Referent Prof. Dr. Peter Schwabe spricht im Rahmen der Wissensrunde 2025 vor Publikum.

What is the House of Knowledge?

The House of Knowledge is being built directly opposite Bochum City Hall. It will be the new home of the municipal library, the adult education center, and the services offered by the UniverCity Bochum e.V. knowledge network. The future residents of the House of Knowledge are already working on a joint program. In order to address current topics, UniverCity Bochum e.V., vhs Bochum, and the city library have launched a series of events called Wissensrunde (Knowledge Round).

 

 

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