"In Solingen, a grand doctoral and memorial ceremony sends a powerful message of unity and tranquility"
In the heart of Solingen, a city that has faced its share of challenges, the Center for Peace played host to a remarkable gathering on July 12th. Around 100 guests from academia, society, and various religious communities came together for an event aimed at promoting unity and diversity.
The event, which sent a strong signal for reconciliation, dialogue, and solidarity, was significant in the city's recovery. It was a poignant reminder of the power of unity, particularly given the city's recent history.
The highlight of the evening was the keynote speech delivered by renowned sociologist of religion, Prof. Detlef Pollack. He praised the academic achievements and societal engagement of Carolin Hillenbrand, who had organised the event and was about to present her summa cum laude dissertation titled "Religion as a Bond or a Wedge?".
Carolin Hillenbrand's dissertation, titled "The Role of Religion in Social Cohesion – A Global, Cross-Country Analysis", investigates how religion influences social cohesion in different countries around the world. The focus on social cohesion suggests an analysis of how religious beliefs, practices, and institutions may contribute to social trust, cooperation, shared values, or potentially social divisions.
Six young people from different religious and cultural backgrounds - Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, Yezidi, and Baha'i - spoke a blessing together after a minute of silence, symbolising the interfaith cooperation at the heart of the event. This was followed by a powerful moment as everyone joined in singing "We Are the World", creating a goosebump moment that encapsulated the spirit of unity and diversity.
Carolin Hillenbrand described the singing of "We Are the World" as a powerful reminder that world peace begins with individuals today. Her dissertation covers an empirical study of nearly 90 countries worldwide, and in her work, she concludes that religion is negatively correlated with social trust in societies.
For religions to contribute positively to the cohesion of society, inclusive beliefs and 'bridging' relationships are crucial. Prof. Pollack praised Carolin Hillenbrand's work, stating that it aims to dismantle prejudices and fears between people of different worldviews.
The event collected donations for the interreligious association Coexister Germany e.V., which Carolin Hillenbrand founded in 2021. The association works towards promoting understanding, respect, and cooperation among different religions and cultures.
In conclusion, the event in Solingen was a testament to the power of unity and diversity. It served as a symbol of hope and unity in a city that had recently experienced a tragic event. Carolin Hillenbrand's dissertation provides empirical evidence and theoretical insights into the complex ways religion impacts social cohesion globally, emphasising comparative analysis. Her work, and the event she organised, aim to dismantle prejudices and fears between people of different worldviews, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.
Education and self-development played a significant role in the event, as Carolin Hillenbrand, an upcoming scholar, was about to present her dissertation titled "The Role of Religion in Social Cohesion – A Global, Cross-Country Analysis". This personal growth endeavor, focusing on social cohesion, investigates the impact of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions on shared values and social divisions globally, ultimately aiming to promote inclusive beliefs and 'bridging' relationships.
