TOPIC

95 theses for the Modern Age

If Martin Luther were alive today…

His 95 theses would likely address issues that are relevant to contemporary society. He might criticize the use of social media to spread misinformation and hate speech, or the growing wealth inequality that has left many people struggling to make ends meet. He might also address the climate crisis and the need for urgent action to protect the planet.

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10 Key Thesis 


  1. We should move away from the idea that growth and profit must be the highest goal of our actions. Instead, we should aim for a sustainable and just economy that considers the well-being of all people and the planet.

  2. We must actively fight against racism, sexism, discrimination, and oppression. We should strive for equal opportunities and rights for all, regardless of their origin, skin color, gender, or sexual orientation.

  3. Technology should not be used to control or manipulate us. We must advocate for technology to serve humans and respect our freedom and privacy.

  4. We must advocate for education and knowledge to be accessible to all. It’s crucial that everyone has the opportunity to educate themselves and unleash their potential.

  5. We must advocate for the protection of the environment. We need to shape our consumption and lifestyle to preserve and sustainably use the natural resources of our planet.

  6. We must advocate for peace and justice. We should fight against war, violence, and oppression and strive for a world in which all people can live in dignity and freedom.

  7. We should advocate for transparent and accountable government. We should fight against corruption and abuse of power and strive for democracy in which all voices are heard and all people are equal.

  8. We must advocate for a socially and solidarity-oriented society. We should support each other, help those in need, and care for each other.

  9. We should advocate for the promotion of art and culture. Art and culture are an essential part of our lives and identity and should be accessible to all.

  10. We should advocate for progress that aligns with ethical and moral values of society. We should be conscious of which technological advancements we choose to support as a society and which we don’t.



We should move away from the idea that growth and profit must be the highest goal of our actions. Instead, we should aim for a sustainable and just economy that considers the well-being of all people and the planet.


  1. Choose environmentally conscious and socially responsible companies and brands.

  2. Reduce your consumption of goods and services to a sustainable level and avoid excessive consumption.

  3. Invest in green technologies and sustainable companies.

  4. Support local and regional producers to promote the local economy and reduce the environmental impact of transportation.

  5. Buy used items and clothing to conserve resources and avoid waste.

  6. Use public transportation, bicycles, or walk to reduce your CO2 emissions.

  7. Support political initiatives and organizations that promote a fairer distribution of resources and a sustainable economy.

  8. Encourage companies to adopt sustainability and social responsibility as part of their corporate culture.

  9. Educate yourself about sustainable practices and concepts such as recycling, energy conservation, and renewable energy.

  10. Actively advocate for political measures that promote a fairer and more sustainable economy, such as the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies or the limitation of CO2 emissions.



We must actively fight against racism, sexism, discrimination, and oppression. We should strive for equal opportunities and rights for all, regardless of their origin, skin color, gender, or sexual orientation.


  1. Raise awareness of your own biases and examine your privileges.

  2. Advocate for diversity and inclusion by promoting an open and discrimination-free work environment.

  3. Actively counter discrimination and injustice by reporting or witnessing discrimination.

  4. Support organizations and groups that advocate for equality and justice.

  5. Advocate for balanced and diverse representation of minorities in media and politics.

  6. Learn from people who are different from you and promote intercultural exchange and understanding.

  7. Advocate for the promotion of education and equal opportunities for all children.

  8. Support projects and initiatives that contribute to reducing discrimination and inequality.

  9. Advocate for political measures that promote equality and justice.

  10. Practice empathy and solidarity by standing up for others and advocating for their rights.



Technology should not be used to control or manipulate us. We must advocate for technology to serve humans and respect our freedom and privacy.


  1. Be conscious of your use of technology and protect your privacy.

  2. Advocate for strong data protection laws and regulations for technology companies.

  3. Choose ethical technology companies that respect your privacy.

  4. Support initiatives that promote digital rights and freedoms.

  5. Use technology to learn and improve skills.

  6. Engage in discussions about the impacts of technology on society and advocate for responsible use.

  7. Use secure online tools and services to protect your digital identity.

  8. Support non-profit organizations that develop technology for the benefit of humanity.

  9. Be aware of cybersecurity fundamentals and promote a safe and secure internet.

  10. Use alternative technology platforms that prioritize privacy and freedom.



We must advocate for education and knowledge to be accessible to all. It’s crucial that everyone has the opportunity to educate themselves and unleash their potential.


  1. Promote access to free or affordable education and training programs.

  2. Support initiatives that promote education in developing countries.

  3. Offer your skills and experience as a mentor or volunteer in education projects.

  4. Use online resources and e-learning platforms to continue learning and improve skills.

  5. Advocate for the promotion of education and knowledge in your community or city.

  6. Provide financial support for scholarships or other education programs.

  7. Support libraries and other educational institutions in your community.

  8. Advocate for access to high-quality education for all, regardless of social or economic status.

  9. Push for education system reform to ensure it is suitable for the needs and challenges of our modern world.

  10. Advocate for the promotion of critical thinking and education for sustainable development to create a better future for all.



We must advocate for the protection of the environment. We need to shape our consumption and lifestyle to preserve and sustainably use the natural resources of our planet.


  1. Reduce energy consumption by using energy-saving devices and turning off unnecessary appliances.

  2. Avoid single-use products and choose reusable alternatives.

  3. Use public transportation, bike or walk to reduce your carbon emissions.

  4. Support environmental protection projects and plant trees and green spaces.

  5. Use sustainable and eco-friendly products with environmental certifications.

  6. Recycle waste and support local recycling initiatives.

  7. Use eco-friendly cleaning products and avoid chemical cleaners.

  8. Inform yourself and others about the impacts of climate change and environmental destruction.

  9. Advocate for the protection of ecosystems and endangered species.

  10. Support political decisions and legislation that promote and implement environmental protection and sustainability.



We must advocate for peace and justice. We should fight against war, violence, and oppression and strive for a world in which all people can live in dignity and freedom.


  1. Actively promote peace by opposing war, violence, and conflicts and encouraging alternative conflict resolution mechanisms.

  2. Support international organizations and programs that promote peace and justice, such as the United Nations or peace foundations.

  3. Engage in initiatives and organizations that advocate for human rights, justice, and peace.

  4. Foster dialogue and collaboration between different groups and communities to resolve conflicts and promote understanding.

  5. Participate in peace and reconciliation processes and support the work of peace organizations.

  6. Promote justice and equality to reduce conflicts and discrimination.

  7. Support local and international programs aimed at poverty reduction and promoting economic and social development.

  8. Actively oppose discrimination, racism, and xenophobia to foster an open and inclusive society.

  9. Foster exchange and collaboration between different countries and cultures to create a better understanding and a shared vision for a peaceful world.

  10. Support political decisions and programs aimed at promoting peace and justice and actively advocate for political changes that enable a fairer and more peaceful world.



We should advocate for transparent and accountable government. We should fight against corruption and abuse of power and strive for democracy in which all voices are heard and all people are equal.


  1. Stay informed about political decisions and legislation and actively advocate for transparency and accountability.

  2. Participate in elections and use your voice to promote change.

  3. Advocate for a free press and the protection of journalists and whistleblowers.

  4. Support petitions and campaigns against corruption and abuse of power.

  5. Demand open information policies and free access to data from governments and public institutions.

  6. Engage in local committees and initiatives to influence political decisions and have an impact on local policy.

  7. Advocate for an independent judiciary and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.

  8. Support non-profit organizations and initiatives that promote the strengthening of democracy and the fight against corruption.

  9. Be informed about the work of politicians and demand accountability and transparency from them.

  10. Promote political education and advocate for the strengthening of democratic values and institutions to foster transparent and accountable governance.



We must advocate for a socially and solidarity-oriented society. We should support each other, help those in need, and care for each other.


  1. Support local non-profit organizations and initiatives that promote social justice and solidarity.

  2. Volunteer in your community and support those in need.

  3. Offer support and assistance to seniors, single parents, and people with disabilities.

  4. Promote integration and cohesion among people of different backgrounds, cultures, and religions.

  5. Advocate for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

  6. Support political decisions and legislation that promote and implement social justice and solidarity.

  7. Donate to non-profit organizations that advocate for social justice and solidarity.

  8. Participate in actions and campaigns to promote social justice and solidarity.

  9. Support local businesses that are committed to social responsibility and sustainability.

  10. Raise awareness and educate others about social issues and promote empathy and compassion in society.



We should advocate for the promotion of art and culture. Art and culture are an essential part of our lives and identity and should be accessible to all.


  1. Support local museums, galleries, and theaters to promote and sustain the local arts scene.

  2. Buy artwork from local artists to support their work and sustain their livelihood.

  3. Attend local music events to support local artists and musicians.

  4. Support non-profit organizations that promote and support art and culture.

  5. Volunteer for non-profit organizations or projects that support art and culture.

  6. Share art and culture on social media to increase visibility and reach.

  7. Attend art and cultural festivals to learn about different art forms and cultures.

  8. Read books and attend readings to expand your cultural education.

  9. Support local libraries and bookstores to promote literacy and the spread of literature.

  10. Engage in political initiatives that support the funding of art and cultural programs and institutions.



We should advocate for progress that aligns with ethical and moral values of society. We should be conscious of which technological advancements we choose to support as a society and which we don’t.


  1. Stay informed about new technologies and their impact on society and the environment.

  2. Participate in public debates and discussions about new technologies.

  3. Demand transparency and accountability from companies and governments in the development and use of new technologies.

  4. Advocate for comprehensive ethical evaluations of technology projects.

  5. Support companies committed to ethical principles and sustainability.

  6. Use technology consciously and responsibly to protect the environment and society.

  7. Urge governments and companies to consider the interests of people, animals, and the environment in the development of new technologies.

  8. Support initiatives that promote data protection and privacy.

  9. Promote education and training in ethics and technology.

  10. Engage in political initiatives that advocate for fair, sustainable, and ethical use of new technologies.



A critical perspective


Striving for a just and equitable world requires both incremental progress and radical transformation, carried out in a peaceful and democratic manner. At this point, I would like to express a feeling that kept coming up for me while formulating these suggestions. It is the concern of not being progressive enough, of relying too much on existing structures.

To what extent can it be argued that these proposals presuppose the existing system of institutions in economy, politics, and society, and thus also support it? Don’t we live in a world that offers little justice for most people? Aren’t assets — the ever-widening gap between rich and poor — distributed completely unequally, with over half of the world’s wealth concentrated in less than 1% of the population? Given this background, wouldn’t a more radical rethink be appropriate?

I’ve thought about this for a while. It’s true that many of the proposed measures assume a fundamental understanding and support of the existing system. These proposals aim to achieve improvements within the existing system and gradually work towards a fairer world. However, it is important to emphasize that support for the existing system does not equate to acceptance of injustice and oppression.

A more radical rethink and possibly even a fundamental change to the existing system may be necessary to create a fairer world. However, it is also important to recognize that such a change cannot happen overnight and that a gradual approach may be necessary. The proposed measures can be viewed as first steps towards promoting awareness and changes in the thinking and actions of society.

It is also important to emphasize that the proposed measures should not be seen as the only solutions and that further radical changes may be necessary to create a fairer world. However, it is also important that the implementation of such changes occurs in a way that is peaceful and in accordance with the rule of law and democratic values.

Additionally, as a white man living in Berlin, I acknowledge that my perspective is limited and shaped by my own experiences and surroundings. I cannot claim to have a comprehensive understanding of all the complexities and nuances of today’s world, and I recognize that my views may be influenced by my own privilege and biases.



Concrete proposals to reduce wealth inequality


Nonetheless, I would like to delve further into one aspect of my critical perspective: the problem of unequal distribution of wealth, the fact that 1% of the population owns more than half of the global wealth. Here, I would like to make concrete proposals to reduce this inequality, such as:

  1. Granting employee share ownership and participation rights. Currently, there is a widespread understanding that involving employees in decision-making in organizations is inefficient. However, new technologies offer more than good reasons why deterrent examples of the past should be reconsidered.

  2. Software technology has the opportunity to show that successful organizations require the power and input of all employees, not just a select few.

  3. Tax reform: A progressive taxation of income and wealth could help reduce income and wealth inequality. This would also help finance public services and infrastructure that benefit everyone.

  4. Minimum wage: Introducing a decent minimum wage could help reduce income inequality and ensure that employees have a sufficient income to support themselves.

  5. Social safety nets: Establishing social safety nets such as unemployment benefits, child support, and retirement pensions could help increase the income of the poorest and provide them with a minimum level of financial stability.

  6. Education: Better education can help improve access to quality jobs and higher incomes. Investments in education and training could help reduce income and wealth inequality.

  7. Regulation of financial markets: Stricter regulation of financial markets could help reduce the power and influence of the financial elite and make access to credit and financial services easier for everyone.



Conclusion


The 10 key theses outlined in this article offer concrete proposals to promote a more sustainable and equitable world, but it is important to recognize that a more radical rethink and fundamental change may be necessary to address the problem of unequal distribution of wealth. The proposed measures should be viewed as first steps towards promoting awareness and changes in the thinking and actions of society, and further radical changes may be necessary to create a fairer world. Nonetheless, it is essential that any changes occur peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law and democratic values.

In addition to the points mentioned in the previous conclusion, there are several key takeaways from this article:

  • Luther’s message of personal responsibility and the pursuit of truth and justice is as relevant today as it was in the 16th century.

  • The proposed measures outlined in this article offer concrete steps towards a more sustainable and equitable world, but they should be viewed as first steps towards promoting awareness and change. Further radical changes may be necessary to create a fairer world.

  • It is essential that any changes occur peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law and democratic values. Striving for a just and equitable world requires both incremental progress and radical transformation, carried out in a peaceful and democratic manner.

  • The problem of unequal distribution of wealth requires concrete proposals to reduce inequality, such as granting employee share ownership and participation rights, tax reform, minimum wage, social safety nets, education, and regulation of financial markets.

  • It is also important to recognize that proposals that assume a fundamental understanding and support of the existing system do not equate to acceptance of injustice and oppression. A more radical rethink and possibly even a fundamental change to the existing system may be necessary to create a fairer world.



It is up to us to take responsibility for our actions and strive for truth and justice in all aspects of our lives, while advocating for a system that considers the well-being of all people and the planet.

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