in English

Violence and aggression are manifested by words and deeds, come clearly to light or are performed in the shadows. They occur in private and in public are directed both at women and men, young and old, friends and strangers, individuals or entire populations. Questions about violence and aggression affect the very core of society.

The interdisciplinary research initiative “Violence and Aggression in Nature and Culture” approaches the phenomenon of violence and aggression from various angles.

From the perspective „causes of violence“ natural and social scientists as well as criminologists explore causation, motives and conditions of aggressive behavior in humans and animals.

What are the molecular and genetic foundations of aggressive behavior? What psychological causes lead to violence? Where is the line between normal and abnormal, excessive aggression? How are social interactions and hierarchies organized? What neurobiological mechanisms are involved?

How do historical, cultural, religious and political factors influence the emergence and awareness of violence? What are the conditions of legitimate and illegitimate exercise of state authority?

The second aspect „Consequences of violence“ primarily places the victims of violence in the centre.

Experiencing acute or chronic violence can lead to a variety of disorders. The information obtained by the multi-disciplinary research findings can provide new approaches for the successful treatment of both, physical and psychological, consequences of violence

The effects of anxiety and permanent psychosocial stress are investigated in animal models as well as in affected humans.

Last but not least this is also about the reactions of society to violence in form of criminal law, penal system and bringing religious pressures to bear in response to violent experiences.

Theologicans, media and literary studies, jurisprudence and political scientists are paying attention to the subject under the heading “languages of violence”.

In this context, language not only means spoken language, but also written language and all symbolic languages.

Research also addresses images, actions and gestures. Language can injure; injury can also result from the avoidance of communication, for example when harassment and bullying.

Threats, defamation and intimidation, insults and segregation are verbal forms of injury. Concealed languages of violence can develop a still underrated potential for violence.

The interdisciplinary nature of the research initiative results in manifold new research approaches and opportunities, together with profitable insights and understanding.

Gewalt und Aggression in Natur und Kultur