Interactions occur both between (intellectual) systems and between individuals. Scientific theories, as well as actors in the academic field, communicate in various ways, intersect, compete for hegemony, and inspire one another. This is why science, as envisioned during the founding of the INTERACTIONS lecture series at the Department of Contemporary History in 1998, requires spaces for thought and communication that are as open as possible while being protected from the neoliberal market logic of self-promotion.

Since then, on several Thursdays each semester, at midday and occasionally during evening events, larger or smaller, always lively discussion groups have gathered to engage with a wide range of lectures and presentations from the field of history and its neighboring disciplines. Ongoing research projects, workshop reports, the latest studies, as well as various media implementations of research, are presented. Discussions not only address current questions, new approaches, and perspectives but also the sometimes highly controversial political implications of historical research. Constructive feedback and critical engagement characterize the often heated but always collegial conversations.

The INTERACTIONS series is committed not only to presenting diverse approaches to engaging with the past but also to involving scholars at all career levels in the debates. The series was founded by Johanna Gehmacher, Siegfried Mattl, Albert Müller, and Bertrand Perz. A long-standing member was Friedrich Stadler, and since 2012, Maria Mesner has joined the team. Sadly, Siegfried Mattl and Albert Müller passed away far too soon.

As of 2025, the INTERACTIONS team consists of Lucile Dreidemy, Linda Erker, Regina Fritz, Johanna Gehmacher, Maria Mesner, Bertrand Perz and Renée Winter.