|
Futurists see a distinct trend in science and technology: convergence, the merging of several key technologies. The working group IFIP/WG 9.2 "Computers and Social Accountability" deals especially with information and communication technologies (ICT) that converge with other technologies, especially biotechnologies, cognitive sciences and nanotechnologies.
Different media are coming together too: creative media, cloud computing, the Internet, mobile telephony, and social networking. Based on this we can conclude that the insight into the social aspects of all these technologies converging with ICT is of great importance.
Trends and developments often take longer to occur than is first perceived. However, disruptive technologies often emerge with little foresight. Some developmental tendencies cannot be detected for quite some time. Our communities and societies also seem to be moving closer together. The planet's globalization inevitably moves towards actuality. However, some elements of fragmentation and conflict can be difficult to surmount.
The twentieth century saw great changes socially and technically. These changes have only speeded up in the twenty-first century. The year 2010 provides an opportune moment in time to investigate, asses and determine our position on convergence. From the socially and ethically-aware standpoint it is crucial to asses how the joining-up of society and technology is supporting humankind, and to establish where we would like to see ourselves in the future, what we will prioritise and who will take responsibility for it.
The aim of the conference is to ask: What are the main trends and developments highlighting convergent developments, socially, technologically, economically, politically? What are the principal social and ethical threats and challenges of converging technologies? What do different communities and societies have to offer in terms of insights into this convergence? How can human beings achieve a level of social accountability in terms of convergence trends in ICT? How can we reflect and theorize together? How can we act together in ways that are likely to benefit human societies rather than threaten or challenge them?
To this end, we welcome contributions that bring different perspectives to the abovementioned foundations of the conference, linked to ICT, such as: ethical, ethnographic, legal and regulatory, philosophical, psychological, social, and socio-economic.
Themes include (but are not limited to): Social, ethical and philosophical reflections on converging technologies and their societal implications (in health, education, mobility, greying population, energy, security, globalization, etc.). Case studies on social and ethical issues concerning ICT and converging technologies in health, education, mobility, etc. Experiences in design, development and use of ICT-based products and services. The role of citizens, clients and customers in defining and adopting new services, treatments and products based on converging technologies.
|
