The Thomas Mann House in Los Angeles: A space for transatlantic debate
The Thomas Mann House in Los Angeles is a vibrant space for transatlantic debate, where outstanding personalities and thought leaders explore fundamental political, social, and cultural issues of today and the future, in dialogue with each other and with the host country, the United States.
As a residency funded by the Federal Republic of Germany, the Thomas Mann House and its interdisciplinary programs are committed to the spirit of Thomas Mann. During his time in the United States, the writer Mann, in his literary works, lectures, and essays, extensively explored the roots of fascism, democratic renewal, freedom, migration and exile.
Building on this sociopolitical work, the Thomas Mann House's fellowship program addresses the relevant challenges of our time by bringing into a dialogue German and American interlocutors from different disciplines, intellectual and artistic traditions, and political backgrounds.
Thomas Mann Fellowships
Who can apply for a Thomas Mann Fellowship?
The Fellowship targets thought leaders, intellectuals, scientists from all disciplines, innovators, creatives, and outstanding personalities that contribute to societal debates and developments. Candidates must live in Germany or must show that Germany has been their main place of residence within the last ten years. German citizenship is not required. German citizens living abroad can also apply.
Junior und Senior Fellowships:
- Junior Fellowships are aimed at thinkers and intellectuals who are at the beginning of their career. Applicants must already demonstrate public engagement (e.g., through publications, readings, lectures, etc.).
- Senior Fellowships are aimed at individuals who have already achieved a high level of public visibility as well as international recognition in their field (e.g., through publications, awards, invitations to public presentations, and relevant media coverage).
What are the goals and expectations of the Thomas Mann Fellowships?
The aim of the Thomas Mann Fellowships is to realize and publicly present a concrete transatlantic project on the 2027 annual topic "The Power of Narratives." A central goal of the Fellowship program is the open dialogue with the wider public. In addition to a high level of English proficiency and the willingness to engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, Thomas Mann Fellows are therefore also expected to actively and extensively interact and engage with partners of the Thomas Mann House and with other institutions in California and across the United States.
2027 Annual Topic:
The Power of Narratives
From myths and memories to arts and politics – narratives play a critical role in shaping our world and its future. They drive people’s identity, give meaning to experiences, inform our sense of justice, and create pathways for social change. In essence, they have the power to unite or divide communities and entire societies. How are today’s cultural, social, political, and economic narratives evolving? How are they tied to the emergence of new media, rapid technological developments, and changes in our understanding of democratic institutions, civil society, and the public sphere? How can we foster a deeper understanding of how narratives shape our collective future? What are creative and relevant ways of storytelling in today’s world? How can historical traditions inform and serve contemporary narratives for inclusive communities and future generations?