Hans-Bernhard Petermann

Philosophizing with Rigo and Rosa, two characters from children’s books? How is that supposed to work? – It’s simple: When Rosa, the little mouse, confronts Rigo, the zoo leopard, with the question at the beginning of the second book: “Rigo? Where has our sense of wonder gone? You must be amazed that a mouse dares to come into your enclosure. And I must be amazed that I’m not your breakfast, but your friend.”—And all philosophers know this—or should know it, or at least learn it: wonder and amazement are the foundation of all philosophy.

The conversations between Rigo and Rosa—artfully rendered in language by Lorenz Pauli with philosophical insight and complemented by Kathrin Schärer’s astonishing illustrations—offer wonderful and instructive opportunities to engage in philosophical reflection alongside Rigo and Rosa on questions that range from seemingly mundane to existentially profound.

Dr. Hans-Bernhard Petermann is a philosopher and chairman of the LeseLeben association, which promotes language and reading culture among children. For over 50 years, children have been philosophizing with him—in his roles as a teacher, university lecturer, and long-time director of the philosophy courses at the Hector Children’s Academy in Heidelberg, among others. Through his programs, he invites children to ask curious questions, think together, and develop their own answers.

Duration: 60–75 min
Location: Meeting room
Recommended age: for young people aged 9 to 13 who are interested in language and thinking

Free admission.
Registration required at: kibu-festival@dai-heidelberg.de
Space is limited.