Check-In

The wooden sculpture from the middle of the 18th century, which was originally attached to a sleigh as an ornament, confronts us with a special form of argument - that with ourselves. The "bird of self-knowledge" is probably one of the most important aspects of the argument about arguing in mind, namely touching one's own nose. Because the question for all of us is how we are prepared to argue. Our current times have a connection with the 18th century in that the limits of what can be said must always be determined through interaction and the ability to self-criticize is essential. We ourselves are responsible for how we argue with each other.

In this online exhibition and in the 2023 annual exhibition of the Francke Foundations, there is no division into a legitimate “good” culture of debate and an illegitimate “bad” culture of debate. Instead, social, media, linguistic-rhetorical and physical mechanisms and their consequences are shown. The basis for this is the concept of invectiveness, which focuses on phenomena of confrontation, belittlement, abuse, etc.

Both exhibitions invite reflection and discussion about arguing itself as well as about differences and connections between the 18th century and today.

The spaces in which dispute situations take place have a decisive influence on them. Dispute arenas are shaped by historical or current media, institutional, cultural and social conditions and role models that are effective in them. Looking at the arenas of dispute makes it possible to show ritualized forms of respective disputes (e.g. in duels and talk shows) and gestures and poses (such as finger signs, postures and clothing styles). In this way, the arguing styles of people in the past and present become clear. The following chapters take a look at the disputed arenas of the marketplace and the courtyard as well as the current arena of screens and sounds.