Neurotechnologies are rapidly transforming our world and raising critical questions for the future of humanity. How do emerging technologies influence our understanding of human nature? What opportunities and risks arise as a result?
To bring these highly relevant topics to the public and foster a shared discussion, the Research Field Societal Futures at the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology organized a future dialogue. Under the title Re-Engineering Human Nature, the event took place at the Stadtkino in the Künstlerhaus in Vienna.
Here are three takeaways:
- Myths and Facts: Neurotechnologies are surrounded by numerous myths, hopes, and fears. Many of these ideas are based on false assumptions, while the real challenges are often overlooked. A fact-based exchange is essential to create realistic perspectives on these technologies.
- Diversity of Perspectives: A holistic dialogue requires diverse viewpoints. That is why the event featured not just a developer on stage but also an ethicist, a legal scholar, a philosopher, a labor researcher, and an artist. The variety of approaches greatly enriched the discussion.
- Art Meets Science: One highlight of the evening was a series of short films exploring different facets of technology. From documentaries on the use of neurotechnologies to artistic and fictional films – science fiction in particular offers inspiring approaches to reflect on the impact of new technologies.
A big thank you to all guests and panelists who enriched the evening with their contributions and discussions. We look forward to further exciting conversations on this topic! Special thanks to: Elisabeth Staudegger from the University of Graz, Eugen Dolezel from the University of Vienna, Philip Schörpf from the research institution FORBA, Sandra Youssef from Biofaction KG, Erika Mondria, freelance artist and collaborator at ARS Electronica, Alexander Lechner from g.tec medical engineering GmbH, and Christopher Coenen from the Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis (ITAS).
Moderation and Organization: Wenzel Mehnert (AIT Innovation Systems & Policy) and Claudia Reinprecht from the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (MFA Austria).
Photos and Video: © Claudia Virginia Dimoiu
