Emotions as a key to social justice: A look at Eichstätt

Imke von Maur und Lucy Osler diskutieren emotionsbasierte Gerechtigkeit bei EPSSE-Tagung in Eichstätt am 24. Juni 2025.
Imke of Maur and Lucy Osler discuss emotion-based justice at EPSSE conference in Eichstätt on June 24, 2025. (Symbolbild/MW)

Emotions as a key to social justice: A look at Eichstätt

In the past few days, Paris has not only attracted the attraction for tourists, but also for experts in the field of emotions and social justice. The Philosopher Imke of Maur, who works at the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, and her colleague Lucy Osler from the University of Cardiff took part in an important event that dealt with the affective dimensions of justice, social-ecological crisis and political changes. As reported] (https://www.ku.de/die-ku/kontakt/presseinformations-detail/philosophieprofessorin-imke-von-maur-holt--international-emotion research-Eichststage), focus was on not only theoretical disciplines, but also the emotional challenges that with it bring.

from Maur emphasized the potential of human emotions in their contributions. According to their conviction, resilience, solidarity, creativity, love and the desire for peaceful coexistence can be decisive in order to tackle social problems. This view is particularly relevant against the background of growing social inequality, which is also increasingly coming to the fore in Germany. The increase in income and asset differences are alarming developments that affect the reality of the life of many people. The bpb shows that inequality not only affects the real wages of the lower income layers, but also the chances of social participation.

emotion and social justice

The annual conference of the European Platform for the Study of Emotions (EPSSE) has established itself over the years as a central platform for the exchange of ideas and concepts in emotion research. Events take place annually in different cities in Europe, most recently in Lisbon, Tartu, Graz, Pisa, Madrid and Athens. The open and collegial atmosphere of the EPSE allows scientists to dive deeply into the matter and to explore solutions together. "We have to take responsibility to stand up for academic freedom and intellectual development," said von Maur.

In the context of social justice, current social developments raise questions that are not just theoretical nature. High income differences could be perceived as unfair, whereby the reasons for such inequalities are evaluated differently by society. An understanding of social justice, which includes the distribution of resources and opportunities, requires a wide range of discussion about suitable measures. The BPB explains that social justice is not equivalent to the distribution of income and assets, but also takes into account the qualitative design of living conditions.

change in society

More and more people question the fairness of the current distribution mechanisms. Inequalities in the tax system, access to education and medical care are constant issues in public discourse. As the bpb, the determination of justice requires both normative and empirical perspectives. It is interesting that the principle of needs is often preferred in close personal relationships, while in competitive environments the performance principle applies.

The discourse on social justice therefore remains dynamic and diverse. With the change in social relationships, there is also a change in the ideas of justice. Companies such as the EPSE help to lead society through scientific discussions and emotional insights to a way that has grown to the challenges of the present.

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OrtEichstätt, Deutschland
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