Discover how a fantastical world can offer surprising insights into real-world diversity.
At first glance, Terry Pratchett’s Discworld seems like a nonsensical mess: picture a flat medieval-fantasy world carried on the back of four giant elephants, themselves standing on the back of a titanic space-faring turtle. Now you probably wonder (with good reasons) what exactly could such stupendous setting bring to the topic of diversity?
Well, if we look from afar, probably not much. But we should never stop at face value. When we leave the astronomical scale to move closer to the ground, we see that the Discworld is populated by humans and other intelligent species. As funny and seemingly unserious as the series might be, and as dissimilar as their world is from ours, the characters’ everyday lives and social behaviors vividly reflect the challenges, trends, and struggles of our 21st century.
In this interactive workshop, open discussion of topics and opinions is encouraged and appreciated. We will dive into a gallery of characters, each with a unique perspective on life, personal flaws, distinct challenges, prejudices, and approaches. Together, we will explore how they cope with these issues, and more often than not, how they harness or confront them to change the world around them.
Join us to uncover how even the most whimsical worlds can mirror and challenge our understanding of diversity.
Cyril Cheret
Cyril Cheret has worked as a scientist in the fields of neuroscience, molecular biology and cell physiology for 13 years before joining the metaresearch team of the Biomedical Innovation Academy in 2019. Among several projects, he designs and supports fair selection processes for the various funding programs proposed by the academy, including the Clinician Scientist Programs. Besides work, he’s an absolute fan of narratives from all across the media range, be it books, series, video games, role-paying games or VR experiences, and likes to reflect on the messages behind the stories.
Language: English spoken language (questions could be asked in German but the issuing discussion will be in English)
Date: 27. February 2025
Time: 4-6 pm
Location: Rahel Hirsch Center for Translational Medicine
Luisenstr. 65
10117 Berlin
Details on Accessibility:
Wheelchair Access: The venue is wheelchair accessible.
Restrooms: A barrier-free toilet is available nearby.
Doors: Main doors are automatic, but the doors to the venue and toilet are not. Assistance can be arranged.
Childcare: Childcare during the events can be arranged (Please let us know in the registration form)
We want our event to be accessible to everyone. Please let us know in the registration form what support or adjustments would make it possible or easier for you to attend - we will do our best to accommodate.