Emerging technologies, such as quantum technologies, already exist in the form of future-oriented projections—visions, expectations, hopes, and fears. These projections matter: they shape the development of technologies by influencing the decisions we make today. As such, “technofutures” are a meaningful subject for ethical reflection.

In this workshop, participants will explore how to put an “ethics of technofutures” into practice, particularly in the context of early-stage technologies like quantum. The focus will be placed on the approach of vision assessment as a way of ethically analysing technological visions.

Programme

The originator of vision assessment, Professor Armin Grunwald, will deliver a keynote lecture, followed by several presentations showcasing different ways in which this approach has been applied. There will be ample time for discussion and for exchanging ideas on the ethical relevance of technofutures and the most effective ways to study them. This theme aligns closely with the newly launched RPA on methodologies for fostering public engagement with science and technology.