NichtUrteilen

NichtUrteilen is a German-language philosophy movement and online community that promotes a non-judgmental approach to daily interactions, learning, and personal development. Founded in 2015 by sociologist Petra Schmitt, the movement emerged in response to the growing prevalence of cancel culture and polarized public discourse in German-speaking countries. NichtUrteilen argues that many social conflicts arise from premature judgments and encourages participants to practice empathy, active listening, and open-minded inquiry.

Central to the movement are a set of guidelines, often summarized as the "5 Ds": Delay, Don’t assume, Dialogue, Discern, and Donate. These principles are used in workshops, discussion forums, and university courses to cultivate self-awareness and reduce prejudice. The organization collaborates with schools, NGOs, and civic institutions to integrate these practices into curricula and community projects.

The movement has gained attention in academic circles for its interdisciplinary research, which draws on psychology, sociology, and communication studies. Several peer-reviewed articles by Schmitt and colleagues examine the impact of non-judgmental communication on conflict resolution and civic engagement, reporting higher levels of trust and cooperation among participants.

Despite its growth, NichtUrteilen faces criticism from some scholars who argue that its emphasis on detachment may inadvertently lead to passivity or moral relativism. Critics maintain that a balance between empathy and accountability is necessary. Nevertheless, the movement continues to be a prominent voice advocating for a more reflective, less adversarial public sphere in Germany and Austria.