Editorial

Dear readers,

The role of science is to explore the world and contextualise the findings. If, however, scientifically proven facts are disclaimed, relativised or vilified as »alternative facts«, every constructive dialogue is deprived of its footing. Such a development endangers democratic society at large. For this reason, on 22^nd April 2017 more than one million people took to the streets in Washington D.C. and in over 600 other cities worldwide, including Kiel. They protested that scientific findings as the basis of social discourse are not up for negotiation.

This »March for Science« will take place again in 2018. It will start with an opening event on Friday 13th April at Kiel University's tower building under the motto »Science, not Silence!« You can expect short presentations and discussions on the responsibility of science to society and a light show in the evening at the university's tower building. With this, we want to bat together for academic freedom, freedom of speech and fair scientific discourse. We look forward to seeing you there!

Prof. Dr Lutz Kipp
President of Kiel University