Philosophy of Science Technology and Society -- University of Twente

Summary

Cecile Campers, a professor of Philosophy of Science, Technology, and Society, discusses the critical analysis of technology's impact on society. She shares her journey from viewing science and technology as neutral to recognizing their complex interplay with societal values. Campers emphasizes the importance of understanding both engineering perspectives and societal values, highlighting the role of her professor, Peter Paul Verbake, in making complex technological topics accessible. She invites those interested in the intersection of philosophy, technology, and society to explore more at the open day or through the website.

Takeaways

• 🤖 The speaker, Cecile Campers, teaches Philosophy of Science, Technology, and Society, which critically examines the impact of technology on society.
• 🧠 During her bachelor studies, Cecile realized her interest in the interplay between scientific knowledge, biological processes, and their societal context.
• 🌟 The course is unique as it combines understanding of engineering perspectives with societal values, showing their interconnection.
• 🔍 Cecile's views have evolved to adopt a more critical stance towards technology's role and its societal desirability.
• 🤔 The course encourages reflection on the intersection of technology, scientific practices, and social values.
• 👨‍🏫 Peter Paul Verbake is a professor mentioned, who can simplify complex technological topics for a wider audience.
• 💡 The script invites those interested in philosophy, technology, and society to attend an open day or visit the website for more information.
• 🌐 The discussion highlights the importance of considering both the technical and societal aspects when assessing new technologies.
• 📈 The script suggests that technology is not neutral but plays a significant role in shaping society and its values.
• 📚 The course aims to equip students with the ability to critically analyze the effects of technological advancements on society.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Cecile Campers' field of study?

Cecile Campers' field of study focuses on the philosophy of science, technology, and society, which involves critically analyzing and assessing the effects of technology on society.

How does the study of philosophy of science, technology, and society differ from traditional engineering studies?

The study of philosophy of science, technology, and society differs from traditional engineering studies by requiring students to look at technology from both engineering and societal perspectives, intertwining technical knowledge with societal values.

What was Cecile's initial perception of science and technology before her studies?

Before her studies, Cecile perceived science and technology as neutral instruments of society.

How has Cecile's attitude towards technology changed after her studies?

Cecile's attitude towards technology has changed to a more critical stance, questioning the role of technology and its desirability in society.

What does Cecile's course aim to teach students about technology assessments?

Cecile's course aims to teach students how to make technological assessments within a societal context, considering both engineering and societal viewpoints.

Who is one of Cecile's professors mentioned in the transcript?

One of Cecile's professors mentioned in the transcript is Peter Paul Verbake.

What is unique about Peter Paul Verbake's approach to teaching complex technological topics?

Peter Paul Verbake's approach is unique because he can discuss complex technological subjects and make them understandable for a broad audience.

What is the broader context that Cecile relates her studies to?

Cecile relates her studies to the bigger picture, connecting scientific knowledge and biological processes to societal contexts.

How does the study of philosophy of science, technology, and society help in understanding the impact of technology on society?

The study helps in understanding the impact of technology on society by critically analyzing the interplay between technological advancements and societal values.

What kind of attitude does Cecile encourage towards the role of technology in society?

Cecile encourages a critical attitude towards the role of technology in society, promoting reflection on its impact and desirability.

What action does the transcript suggest for those interested in philosophy, technology, and society?

For those interested in philosophy, technology, and society, the transcript suggests visiting the open day or the website for further information.