On the use and abuse of changing models

Brecht's fondness for “models” is perhaps not well known, but it is evident in his contribution to the “theater of the scientific age.” Walter Benjamin captured Brecht’s attitude in a single sentence - “It can happen this way, but it can also happen quite a different way; that is the fundamental attitude of one who writes for epic theatre” - a formulation uncannily close to the logic of contemporary scenario thinking. In climate research in particular, and Earth system science more generally, models are an integral part of the “theater of science.” Thinking in “scenarios,” as practised by the IPCC and other climate organisations, was explored much earlier within Renaissance theater, a time, when Galilei had to hide his knowledge about the sun. Taking Brecht's concept of models further could start wherehe himself recommended changing his models as he formulated them.

Veranstaltung auf Englisch / Event in English

Further information: Brecht-Tage 2026 | Literaturforum im Brecht-Haus