The industrial society with its division of labour, specialisation, automation, hierarchical structure and, most recently, digitalisation has successfully brought us wealth and consumption over centuries. But unfortunately, it has also deprived many of us of an overview of life. And with it our own ability to act. We have more knowledge than ever before. But we don't know what to do with it, we lack perspective.
We should get it back. And thus learn to understand our complex world in its correlations. The new book by journalist Wolf Lotter, "Correlations: How We Can Learn to Understand the World Again," can serve as an initial spark. In it, he clearly shows why the new, digital knowledge society needs completely new ways of thinking in a global, increasingly complex world. Lotter argues for a fresh look at education, culture, participation, achievement and personal responsibility - all of which are things that we Vorarlbergers have always valued.
In view of the flood of knowledge and information, Lotter says that "contextual competence" is the key word. By this he refers to the ability to make connections in order to be able to autonomously decide and act. Because it is often only through contexts that solutions, answers and prospects are found. If we therefore look at challenges with great openness, everyone in their own place and role, and look at issues "as if it is the first time" with as little ideology and pigeonholing as possible, we would come up with completely different solutions that are much better suited to modern times.
Complexity and diversity don't become disruptive factors, but "resources of the present" that can be used productively. Many wish for simple solutions from the complexity of networking. But it doesn't work like that. It only works with a desire for diversity. Instead of blindly following experts or falling for "know-it-alls," we should be brave enough to build up our own knowledge. Communication and networks are crucial for all of us: New knowledge is created more quickly through exchange and discussion with others.
This is how Lotter's book makes it clear what is particularly important in social interaction. It is a wonderful inspiration for the potential of our region and how we can turn difficulties into opportunities and opportunities into positive outcomes for everyone in this country.