Anniversary 2013: 50 Years Max Planck Institute for Human Development

The Max Planck Institute for Human Development celebrated its 50th anniversary on 9 October 2013 with a scientific symposium. The program included speeches on the history, present-day, and future of the Institute; a podium discussion with the directors Ute Frevert, Gerd Gigerenzer, Ralph Hertwig, and Ulman Lindenberger; and speed presentations by the Institute’s young scientists on their current research topics. More than 300 guests enjoyed a varied program with contributions also from the Emeritus Directors Wolfgang Edelstein and Jürgen Baumert.

Among the speakers and guests were Peter Gruss, President of the Max Planck Society; Wilhelm Krull, Secretary General of the Volkswagen Foundation; numerous expert colleagues; and representatives from politics such as Knut Neverman, State Secretary for Science and Research for the Berlin state. “The Max Planck Institute for Human Development conducts top-level research in the best Max Planck sense,” said Peter Gruss. This is also evident in the interdisciplinary orientation and international networking.

Musical entertainment also included 15 members of the Institute’s choir who performed a medley of songs, specially rehearsed for this occasion, on the subject of education.

What Exactly Does Bildung Mean?

The documentary “What Exactly Does Bildung Mean?” by the filmmaker Reinhard Kahl takes a look at 50 years of the Institute's history. We hear from current and former directors and long-standing companions of the Institute. The film was made with the support of the Jacobs Foundation.

Here you can see the trailer (in German).
Impressions
A varied program awaited the guests of the scientific symposium on 9 October 2013 in Berlin. We have compiled impressions of the lectures, supporting program, and get-together. more
Commemoration Exhibition—Hellmut Becker
As part of the Institute’s 50th anniversary, an exhibition commemorated the life and work of the founding director Hellmut Becker to mark his 100th birthday in 2013. more
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