Open BTU: The AfD paradox, the impact of populism on the economy and social groups

The AfD paradox, the impact of populism on the economy and social groups

Populist demands are increasingly finding their way into the programs of many political parties. Populism attempts to pit vulnerable groups against each other and make socially acceptable claims that may apply to individual cases but are false in their generalization. What does this mean for the economy, wages, income and jobs? How does this affect society and its polarization? And what are the long-term implications for prosperity and sustainability?

Speaker: Prof. Dr. Marcel Fratzscher, President of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin) and Professor of Macroeconomics at the Humboldt University of Berlin

Moderation: Prof. Dr. Frank Wätzold, BTU, Chair of Economics, in particular Environmental Economics

Location: BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg, Audimax 1 (Konrad-Wachsmann-Allee 3, 03046 Cottbus)

About the Open BTU lecture series

From April 10, 2024 to June 12, 2024, the public lecture series "Open BTU" offers interesting insights into exciting scientific fields. In the summer semester, the following topics will be examined from different perspectives:

• Empathy, guilt and forgiveness after the 2nd World War
• Sorbian/Wendish culture in the current transformation process
• The effects of populism on the economy and social groups
• Trees in transition - challenges and opportunities (as part of the 32nd Cottbus Environment Week)
• Battery research for the energy transition - prospects for innovative battery recycling

With this educational format, which is open to all interested parties, the university's Centre for Continuing Education supports lifelong learning and funds the transfer of knowledge and ideas in the region by addressing socially relevant issues. The BTU cooperates with other universities and institutions. Each lecture will be followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion with the speakers. Anyone interested is cordially invited to take part in the wide range of events on offer.