The aim of the Philological Laboratory is to develop modes of engagement with art, literature, and philosophy that are not determined by prevailing modes of critique. Without necessarily becoming uncritical, we would like to develop a sensitivity for the limitations and pitfalls of critical routines. At the same time, we want to broaden our perspectives: Our goal is to develop modes of understanding that are experimental and that, at the same, can make a claim to validity. In short: We would like to be able to do justice to our experiences with artworks – to our curiosity, wonder, and surprise – without standing in judgment.