Axel Springer CEO and Chairman Mathias Döpfner | Full Interview | Code 2022

Join Axel Springer CEO and Chairman Mathias Döpfner's powerful conversation on saving democracy, taming technology, and the role of journalism in unprecedented challenges for post-war democracy.

Key takeaways
  • Post-War democracy is facing unparalleled challenges, and journalists play a crucial role in saving it.
  • Trust is essential, but corporate nonsense should be minimized to maintain credibility.
  • True journalism should be unpredictable, open-minded, and critically reflect on the current situation.
  • The biggest threat to democracy is the lack of emotional empathy and the overemphasis on convenience.
  • Tech companies should be held accountable for their actions, including the weaponization of media and misinformation.
  • TikTok is a major threat to democracy, as it is controlled by the Communist Party of China.
  • iOS and Android should be modified to ban TikTok and other Chinese applications.
  • The best way to save democracy is to ensure that the majority of people understand the danger of such technology.
  • Post-War democracy is truly a unique phenomenon, and it should be protected at all costs.
  • The internet should be safe, secure, and transparent to prevent manipulation and disinformation.
  • The role of journalism is to show both sides of the coin, and not to take a particular stance.
  • The dangers of authoritarianism and Nazism must be remembered and understood.
  • The best way to accelerate growth is to take calculated risks, invest in human resources, and be transparent.
  • The most powerful voice in Germany is that of the press, and everyone should have access to unbiased information.
  • Transparency and accountability are crucial in maintaining trust in democracy, but it is also important to have a clear understanding of the facts.
  • Everyone should be aware of the dangers of propaganda and manipulation, especially in the age of social media.
  • International cooperation is critical in addressing the challenges of democracy, and individual countries must take a united stance against authoritarianism.
  • The world is facing unprecedented challenges, but there is always hope and a chance for a brighter future.
  • The importance of truth, accountability, and transparency should not be underestimated.
  • The lack of a level playing field in America is a serious concern, as it can lead to unfair competition and further polarization.
  • Democracy is only possible if individuals are willing to take a stand and defend it.
  • The desire for a unified, factual narrative is a fundamental human need, and technology should be used to facilitate that.
  • The importance of small talk, debate, and argumentation cannot be overemphasized, as they are essential for democracy.
  • Everyone should be aware of the dangers of censorship, misinformation, and propaganda, and should take action to prevent these threats.
  • The challenge for publishers is to maintain their independence, integrity, and commitment to truth in the face of increasing commercial pressure.
  • The role of entrepreneurs is crucial in driving innovation, and they should be given the necessary support to achieve their goals.
  • Human genetics and artificial intelligence will continue to evolve and will change the world in profound ways.
  • The key to success lies in taking risks, investing in people, and being transparent and open-minded.