In my opinion, we can no longer afford to be apolitical. The “how” is particularly important.
I am a political person. I believe in the inviolability of human dignity, in freedom, and in equality. I believe in democracy.
In my opinion, one of the most important foundations of human interaction is also laid out in these formulations of the Categorical Imperative (Kant):
“Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.”
“Act in such a way that you treat humanity, whether in your own person or in the person of any other, never merely as a means to an end, but always at the same time as an end.”
“Act as if you were always, through your maxims, a lawmaking member in a universal kingdom of ends.”
I personally extend Kant’s principles relating to people to include the nature that surrounds and sustains us. A necessity.
I feel committed to truth and honesty. They are a foundation on which consensus between two people is even possible.
And I am aware that I myself – with all these fine ideals – regularly fail to live up to my own principles. Only to believe in them all the more firmly after this realization and to work on myself.
Therefore, it is ultimately imperative for me that it is primarily a question of decency (and not of political attitude), a question of humanity, not to give Nazis, right-wing extremism (and yes: every form of extremism – including left-wing extremism), fascism, hatred in any form any space.
If we do not stand up for each other, for freedom and equality, for our constitution, preserve it and shape it, then no one will.
This does not in the least prevent ALL from being free in their opinion formation and expression – insofar as they stick to the truth and deal responsibly with their own freedom:
(1) Everyone has the right to freely express and disseminate his opinion in words, writing and pictures and to inform himself unhindered from generally accessible sources. Freedom of the press and freedom of reporting through radio and film are guaranteed. There shall be no censorship.
(2) These rights are limited by the provisions of general laws, the legal provisions for the protection of youth and the right to personal honor.
(3) Art and science, research and teaching are free. Freedom of teaching does not absolve from loyalty to the constitution.
§5 Basic Law
I appeal to YOU to also firmly, in your way, with imagination and with your possibilities, stand up to hatred in peace and with decency.