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The Otto Brenner Stiftung (OBS) is the scientific foundation of the IG Metall trade union. [source: otto-brenner] It was founded in 1972 and continues the work of Otto Brenner, who served as the first chairman of IG Metall from 1956 to 1972. [source: otto-brenner] The foundation’s motto is “Knowledge that moves.” [source: otto-brenner]
The OBS is dedicated to the democratization of society, the economy, and work. [source: otto-brenner] It operates under the guiding principle attributed to Otto Brenner: “Not rest, not subservience to authority is the first civic duty, but criticism and constant democratic vigilance.” [source: otto-brenner] The foundation focuses on topics related to these areas of democratization. [source: otto-brenner]
The foundation maintains an archive of its work up to the year 2025. [source: otto-brenner] This archive is accessible for those seeking more “knowledge that moves.” [source: otto-brenner]
Use it for
A campaigner can use the Otto Brenner Stiftung as a source of scientific research and analysis that supports the democratization of society, the economy, and work. [source: otto-brenner] Its work, rooted in the tradition of the IG Metall trade union, provides a critical perspective on authority and promotes constant democratic vigilance. [source: otto-brenner]
The foundation’s archive offers a repository of materials that can inform campaigns related to labor rights, economic democracy, and social justice. [source: otto-brenner] A campaigner might reference OBS studies or publications to strengthen arguments for worker participation, democratic reforms in the workplace, or broader societal change. [source: otto-brenner]