Prof. Alena Buyx was a guest at the Salzburg University Weeks this year and also spoke about "Ethical Aspects of Reduction".

She found that reduction is a topic that does not play too big a role in ethical theories. Although there is definitely a consensus that reduction must also play a role in certain areas in order to manage the socio-ecological transformation, this necessary transformation is not explained enough, according to Prof. Buyx. Above all, answers must be found to the question of how reduction can be seen in society not only as renunciation, but also as added value.

For this, he said, more "good stories" are needed from a wide range of institutions about how doing less can bring something, for example by leading to a better quality of life, health and well-being. "[...] Reduction does not appear as an idea of a good life, but as something threatening. And we simply can't afford that anymore," summed up Prof. Buyx.

The Salzburg University Weeks, considered the oldest summer university in Europe, are this year entitled "Reduction. Why we need more less" and invite to a dialogue between theology and secular sciences.

(Photo credit: Henning Klingen)