Societal Responsibility of Universities. Wisdom and Foresight Leading to a Better World
Richard R. Ernst
Summary

The essay summarizes this author’s view on the role and responsibility of universities and researchers in a world taking a course that all too often deviates from a beneficial, sustainable direction. In many respects, we are living today shortsightedly on the account of future generations. In this situation, universities carry a heavy load of responsibility, bearing in mind that they educate the citizens of tomorrow, especially the political, economic, and spiritual key leaders. The independence of academic teachers gives them the liberty to express their views freely and honestly in the hope of influencing the long-term societal development. Scientific explorations of the foundations of nature are important for gaining further knowledge to address urgent issues of our common future. However, in addition, we academics are obliged to develop wisdom for comprehending the trans-disciplinary and trans-cultural connections that provide clues for solving major pending problems. An overarching view may help us to conceive innovative societal models and to find possible avenues that will lead towards sustainable prosperity and human dignity for all citizens on our globe.