Denkmalsturz, Diversität und Dialog. Eine neue Wissenskonstellation

Abstract

This article examines the contexts of monument toppling, diversity, and dialog and discusses the social and political aspects of monument preservation. Preserving historical monuments and buildings means working out conflicts of values and negotiation processes. Hannah Arendt’s thoughts on the dialogue in her comments on “What is Politics?” offer fruitful ideas in this regard. The toppling and altering of historical landmarks resulting from a critical, negative confrontation with problematic heroizations can also be seen as a contribution to a new configuration of knowledge and, as such, can be reflected in approaches that stem from discussions about the responsibility of research. The way in which the Bristol History Commission grappled with the toppling of the Colston Statue is a concrete example of how dialog and responsibility can be practiced.