The children's book Wo bitte geht's zu Gott?, fragte das kleine Ferkel triggered a national debate in 2007 when the German Federal Ministry for Family Affairs considered a sales ban, alleging the inclusion of anti-Semitic imagery. Authored by Michael Schmidt-Salomon, the text became a focal point for intense public scrutiny regarding the depiction of religious concepts to minors.
Academic Background
Born in 1967 in Trier, Germany, Michael Schmidt-Salomon pursued studies in education sciences at the University of Trier. He completed a master’s degree in educational theory in 1992, followed by a PhD in 1997. During this period, he maintained a dual role as a research assistant and lecturer at the university from 1992 until 2001. He expanded his teaching reach in 2002 by joining the faculty at the Institut D'Etudes Educatives et Sociales in Luxembourg.
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As a philosopher and writer, Schmidt-Salomon focused his work on science theory, anthropology, aesthetics, society theory, futurology, practical ethics, and religious criticism. He served as the editor of the political magazine MIZ, which caters to atheists and the irreligious, between 1999 and 2007. In 2006, he assumed the role of CEO at the Giordano Bruno Foundation. His organizational influence includes co-founding the Central Council of Ex-Muslims in 2007 and co-organizing the Kritische Islamkonferenz in 2008 and 2013.
Literary Output
Schmidt-Salomon has authored numerous books spanning pedagogical, philosophical, and critical themes. Notable titles include Manifesto of Evolutionary Humanism, Erkenntnis aus Engagement, Stollbergs Inferno, Jenseits von Gut und Böse, Leibniz war kein Butterkeks, and Hoffnung Mensch: Eine bessere Welt ist möglich. His writing often interrogates morality, humanism, and the intersection of evolutionary theory with contemporary culture.
Personal Life and Debate
Living in Vordereifel, Schmidt-Salomon maintains a non-traditional household that includes three adopted children, two biological children, and three other adults. His public presence has involved formal academic debates, including a recorded discourse regarding the existence of God with the theologian and apologist William Lane Craig. His work continues to position him as a prominent figure in German humanist and atheistic discourse.
Fast facts
- Born: 1967, Trier, Germany
- Primary Religion: Atheism
- Academic Qualification: PhD in Educational Theory
- Key Organization: Giordano Bruno Foundation
- Known Role: Chairman and CEO
- Residence: Vordereifel
- Primary Occupations: Philosopher, writer, lecturer
Questions readers ask
What is Michael Schmidt-Salomon's academic background?
He studied education sciences at the University of Trier, earning a master's degree in 1992 and a PhD in 1997.
Why was his children's book controversial?
The Federal Ministry for Family Affairs objected to the illustrations, comparing them to anti-Semitic caricatures, though others, like Peter Riedesser, defended the book's message.
Achievements
- Notable work: Leibniz war kein Butterkeks
- Notable work: Manifesto of Evolutionary Humanism
- Notable work: Hoffnung Mensch: Eine bessere Welt ist möglich
- Notable work: Jenseits von Gut und Böse
- Held posts at Trier University
