Neuroscientist and psychotherapist Joachim Bauer sees the foundations of a humanistic society threatened by artificial intelligence, digital isolation, and the power of large tech corporations. In his new book, "Fundamental Things," he combines the philosophy of Immanuel Kant with findings from brain research. In an interview with the portal Telepolis, Bauer stated that fundamental values include the recognition of the dignity of others, educational and developmental opportunities for all, and respectful coexistence in a democratically constituted society where laws prevent the powerful from ruling alone. These values are under massive attack—from the Big Tech monopolists of Silicon Valley and the anti-democratic actors they support, both on this side of the Atlantic.
Reason, according to Bauer, does not arise in a vacuum, but rather where people cooperate, communicate, and adopt the perspectives of others. The philosopher Habermas called this process of understanding "discourse." Reason begins everywhere with shared practice. Currently, society is experiencing a decline in reason, exacerbated by digitalization and the resulting isolation: everyone lives in front of their screen, collective action is decreasing, and online slander is on the rise. As artificial intelligence takes over the task of critical thinking, independent thought is also becoming increasingly rare. "The Enlightenment is being reversed; we are on the path to a demented society," said Bauer.
Kant's categorical imperative demands that we adopt the perspective of others; this shift in perspective forms the core of empathy. "Reason and empathy are therefore inextricably linked," Bauer emphasized. Humans are rational beings, yet are born without reason. The central question of his book is how reason develops in children: by treating children with empathy and reason, and by encouraging them to develop reason themselves through their own actions—initially through play. This requires a good upbringing system and sound education systems. However, these have been eroding for years, including in Germany; digital products have significantly contributed to this decline. He finds it baffling that some experts continue to believe that increased digitalization leads to smarter children—the PISA results demonstrate the opposite. Incidentally, top Silicon Valley managers send their children to Waldorf schools.
The situation regarding human empathy is "extremely dire," said Bauer. The current world spirit is dominated by the products of Silicon Valley – social media, violent online video games, and artificial intelligence. The top executives of the digital giants openly profess their commitment to the principle of maximum profit, ruthless technicism, and immorality. When the world's richest man, Elon Musk, considers empathy "civilizational suicide," humanity is in a sorry state. This must be opposed.
To strengthen humanity, real-world spaces for experiencing successful cooperation must be expanded – for example, through a mandatory year of social service. Life has shifted far too much into virtual spaces and must be reclaimed. All forms of analog togetherness – from childhood to old age – should be encouraged: working together, realizing projects, being there for one another, celebrating, making music, playing sports, and spending time together in nature. Bauer is a neuroscientist, physician, and psychotherapist, a professor at the University of Freiburg, and a visiting professor in Berlin. His book, "Fundamental Things: On Reason, Morality, and Empathy – What It Means to Be Human," is published by Herder Verlag (224 pages). The full interview is available at https://www.telepolis.de/article/Joachim-Bauer-Die-Aufklaerung-wird-rueckabgewickelt-11506958.html
