An interactive application exploring the complex tensions within democracy.

Interactive Visualization: markuslerner.com/demokratie

This experimental application emerged from discussions about the political situation in Germany ahead of the early Bundestag election in 2025. The 20 questions, each linked to various societal issues, were developed through research as well as insightful conversations with friends. They are not exhaustive but aim to highlight key challenges that politics and citizens urgently need to address.

The visualization represents the topics as hashtags connected to the questions. At the center of the vortex, you will find comments from an Instagram Reel about the protest "Aufstand der Anständigen" (Uprising of the Decent) – in support of democracy and against right-wing extremism, racism, hate, incitement, and hostility towards people (February 2, 2025). Some comments have been shortened and anonymized to make the discussion more accessible. They reflect societal conflicts fueled by fear, frustration, instrumentalization, disinformation, and manipulation – all of which contribute to increasing social division.

In an era of dynamic media streams, omnipresent algorithms, and growing AI influence, it is more important than ever to promote independent, critical thinking and resilience. Fact- and reality-checking must be a central anchor in the flood of information to enable healthy debates.

This reflection has helped us organize our thoughts – and rediscover hope for a better future with greater social cohesion.

The project will evolve over time and will include an English translation.

Ideas & Concept: Krittika Arvind, Markus Lerner
Design & Coding: Markus Lerner

Work:
UI design, frontend development in JavaScript/react-three-fiber, interactive sound design & programming