What is scientifically proven, and what is often misrepresented? To mark Constitution Day on 23 May 2026, four academics from OTH Regensburg focused on fact-based discourse, which is a key pillar of our democracy.
Four controversial topics: a fact check
Under the theme ‘Facts vs. Fake News’, the professors each turned their attention to a particularly contentious contemporary issue: artificial intelligence and the energy transition, the diversity of human and sexual identity, and the issue of migration. These are four topics which, in the debates surrounding them, are characterised by myths, long-outdated views or even misinformation, and are emotionally charged. It is precisely here that science can make a significant contribution to the discussion – based on objectivity and facts – and ultimately help to strengthen democracy.
From the limits of AI to the diversity of identity
Whilst Prof. Dr Karsten Weber takes an objective look at artificial intelligence (AI), focusing on what it can do, where its limits lie and where its real risks lie – which may well be somewhere quite different from where one might expect – Prof. Dr Clarissa Rudolph turns her attention to the diversity of human identity and sexuality, using current debates and attacks on queer people as examples.
Prof. Dr Martina Ortner, on the other hand, emphasises that simple answers are almost always wrong – particularly when it comes to the issue of migration. Numerous claims and prejudices are circulating in this area, many of which are simply not scientifically tenable; she examines three such false claims through a scientific lens and sets the record straight. Finally, Prof. Dr Michael Sterner examines widespread misconceptions about the energy transition and provides a scientifically sound analysis of what is actually true about claims regarding costs, security of supply and Germany’s contribution to climate protection.
Here are a few selected myths, outdated views or ‘fake news’ that can be debunked using scientific evidence.
Different sexual orientations and gender identities are neither illnesses nor the result of "influence" or upbringing. Human sexuality is characterised by diversity.
Instead of examining the actual capabilities of today’s AI, its abilities are dismissed out of hand. Yet many of these assumptions have already been put into perspective by technological developments in recent years.
The reasons for fleeing are always complex. Living in shared accommodation, using a prepaid card and having limited access to medical care are certainly not signs of a life of luxury. Studies show that social benefits have little or no effect on migration
Our research shows that wind and solar energy are currently the cheapest forms of electricity generation worldwide. Those who rely on fossil fuels are investing in a dead end that will become significantly more expensive in future due to CO₂ pricing.