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 2026 annual topic "In Search of a Common Cause." 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.
2026 Annual Topic:
In Search of a Common Cause
Solidarity and the notion of common cause have long been both pillars and promises of the modern liberal order. However, in recent decades, we seem to have forgotten their importance as a precondition for society to exist, function, and develop. Yet, how can we imagine a common cause when we face disagreements and polarizations not only on some specifics but on the very fundamentals of what constitutes the common good? Can we build and maintain solidarity among seemingly opposing identities, groups, and geopolitical alliances? What are the roles of government, business, and civil society? In a transatlantic context, what are examples of innovative approaches to building cohesive, equitable, and fair communities in fields such as arts and culture, religion, education, technology, sports, or the environment? What could 21st-century concepts of solidarity and common cause look like?