How does the HUMBOLDT-VIADRINA School of Governance work?

All activities at the HUMBOLDT-VIADRINA School of Governance are guided by the following principles:

Complex problems are important opportunities to reshape and rearrange. Problem-solving is an open, understanding-based process that seeks to arrive at a consensus in addressing even the most complicated issues; successful problem-solving will try to work from a shared perspective to find joint strategies and techniques to approach complex conflicts.

Knowledge of problem-solving methods is a necessary component of many social disciplines, as well as something demanded by many concrete situations. The ability to apply these methods effectively is the key to finding long-lasting solutions to various challenges and obstacles.

Only with the application of adequate procedures and processes can the development of solutions to complex problems be successful. This requires the joining of distinct disciplines and actors in a dialogue that will concentrate their methods and knowledge; what is therefore needed is a readiness for and willingness to engage in an open and productive dialogue.

Problem-solving is a vital aspect of any given learning process, as well as a departure point for addressing complex new challenges. Policy that reflects and integrates ongoing change is the core element of a “learning society.” HUMBOLDT-VIADRINA’s educational programme therefore places particular importance on the development of both individual and collective learning skills, as well as on the ability to adjust problem-solving strategies according to new demands made by changing situations.

Attempts to address cultural differences influence countless aspects of society, and affect everything from urban planning to the international strategies employed by companies and governments. In order to be able to properly identify and assess the ‘cultural’ facets of certain projects and decisions, a certain sensitivity to and ability to work within intercultural issues and contexts is vital; it is at the same time necessary, however, for thinkers to be able to critically examine all of those claims made on the pretext of ‘cultural difference’.

In the development of political problem-solving, the logic of distinct approaches must be considered; political design is an interactive process between those who shape policy and those who are influenced by its designs. It is those who are directly affected by policy who most often organize themselves, and, both individually and in small groups, uncover and implement effective solutions to problems.