The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on August 6 and 9, 1945, mark their 80th anniversary. On this occasion, the event questions the actions of the scientists involved in the development of these bombs during the Manhattan Project: What individual responsibility did the scientists bear for their actions? How much room did they have to shape events?

To address this, the event will first focus on some of the key figures of that time, recalling their actions, thoughts, and feelings. It aims to show how their individual opportunities for influence diminished as the project progressed and ultimately had to give way entirely to a logic of pure military and power dynamics.

In the second part, the current trend of blurring the lines between civilian and military research will be discussed. This will also include examining the responsibility of science from today's perspective, particularly from the viewpoints of physics and computer science.

The event will feature lectures and discussions with:

• Prof. em. Dr. Franz Fujara (Magnetic Resonance, Physics)
• Prof. Dr. Dr. Christian Reuter (Science and Technology for Peace and Security (PEASEC), Computer Science)
• Dr. Robin Mentel (Natural Science Peace Research, Physics)

Moderation: Regina Hagen (Darmstadt Peace Forum)

Participation is free of charge.

The event is in German.

Further information can be found on the PEASEC event website.