New iconoclasm

Members of the Philosophy and History Section of Academy of Sciences and Humanities Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities a working group to examine the global significance of iconoclasm and the role of monuments. In doing so, they explored various aspects of iconoclasm. Some of the findings from this working group were published in the 2021/2 issue of Athene magazine.

One such aspect involved the toppling of statues of colonial rulers and slave traders during the Black Lives Matter protests in the United Kingdom. These incidents highlight a growing confrontation with historical symbols that serve as reminders of the colonial past and imperialist violence. The protests raised the question of how to deal with monuments, street names, and architecture that reflect the history of colonialism.

The toppling of monuments, however, is not a new phenomenon. There were already controversies in the 19th century; today, however, the debate is more strongly shaped by a progressive elite that calls for a critical examination of imperial history. This raises the question of whether we should remember only a morally “pure” past, which carries the risk of oversimplifying historical complexity and jeopardizing a sense of cultural belonging. The discussion about monuments must acknowledge the moral ambivalence of many historical figures and offer a nuanced perspective.
Monuments function not only as silent landmarks but also as active political and cultural instruments. They influence people’s perceptions and behavior in public spaces and shape collective memory. Especially in countries like China and Russia, monuments possess a multidimensional power that extends beyond their physical representation. In China, for example, Mao monuments are ubiquitous and symbolize not only a historical figure but also the ideology of the Communist Party.

Modern iconoclasm differs from earlier historical debates in that it has a stronger moral and political dimension. Global protests are calling for a radical reevaluation of history. Historical figures are increasingly judged by their stance on colonialism. This leads to global pressure on institutions that decide on the removal of monuments. In contrast to earlier processes, in which history was recognized as “heritage” and historicized, today’s iconoclasts demand that the past be judged according to contemporary values. The challenge lies in situating these movements within the historical context of historical struggles. It is crucial to foster a dialogue that acknowledges history in all its complexity without being overly guided by current moral standards. The goal should be to constantly renegotiate the interpretation of history without demanding a universal notion of reverence for monuments.
Monuments are thus more than just works of art or historical relics—they are active players in the political and cultural sphere.

The treatment of monuments—whether through destruction, relocation, or reinterpretation—reflects profound social and political upheavals. The debate over the toppling of monuments demonstrates that monuments are always symbols of political conflict and the interpretation of history. The challenge for society lies in acknowledging the historical complexity and moral ambivalence of many historical figures. The dialogue on how to deal with monuments should respect the diversity of perspectives and promote a respectful, communal remembrance that preserves the lessons of the past while leaving room for new interpretations.

Directed by:

• Ronald Asch
• Renate Lachmann

Members:

• Manfred Berg
• Markus Enders
• Tonio Hölscher
• Dieter Langewiesche
• Jörn Leonhard
• Barbara Mittler
• Cornelia Ruhe
• Beat Wyss