KölnerKinderUni

Di. 08.07.2025

Helping Ourselves and Our Planet: Learning What We Want Versus What We Need! (Lecture held in English)

Have you ever wished for the latest smartphone, the coolest sneakers, or a new video game? But do we really need them? What’s the difference between wants and needs—and why is it important to understand this distinction?

In this exciting and interactive session, we will explore one of the biggest questions in sustainability and personal choices: Are we able to distinguish between what we want and what we actually need? Should we even try to make this distinction, and what does it mean for our lives and our planet?

Why Does It Matter?

Every decision we make—what we buy, what we use, and what we throw away—affects not only us but also the world around us. The way we consume resources impacts the environment, other people, and even future generations. But how do we know when something is essential and when it’s just a luxury? And if we only focus on what we „want,“ what could be the consequences?

What Will We Do?

• Think critically about everyday choices: Do we really need that new gadget, or is it just clever marketing?
• Explore real-life examples of how our consumption affects the environment and people worldwide.
• Discuss the psychology of consumerism—why do we feel the urge to buy things, and how can we make more conscious decisions?
• Engage in a fun, hands-on activity that challenges us to rethink our wants and needs in a new way!

By the end of this session, you’ll be equipped with new perspectives on your daily choices and a deeper understanding of how they shape not only your life but also the future of our planet.

Are you ready to challenge the way you think about what you truly need? Join us on this journey of discovery!

Lecture held in English.