The Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis (ITAS) investigates scientific and technological developments with a focus on their impacts and possible systemic and unintended effects. It produces analytical knowledge and assessments of socio-technical developments in order to provide policy and design options for decision-makers. The research covers ethical, ecological, economic, social, political-institutional, and cultural questions. Major goals are advice for research and technology policy, provision of knowledge for the design of socio-technical systems, and the organization and observation of discursive processes on open and controversial questions of technology policy.
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NEWS
Climate-friendly everyday life
Together with citizens, the transdisciplinary project „Climate protection – let’s dare it together!” wants to develop alternatives for climate-friendly actions in the fields of nutrition, mobility and consumption. The Kickoff was on 16 November 2018.
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Well meant, but also well done?
Scientists at ITAS have assessed the sustainability of the German energy transition. Their result: Nearly half of the indicators examined require rapid measures in order to achieve the sustainability goals.
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Playing sustainability
How can CO2 emissions be effectively restricted in a globalized world? A team of the ITAS´s real world lab has developed a board game for the didactical use e.g. at schools. It allows its players to immerse in crucial questions of sustainable living.
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Energy as a Sociotechnical Problem
The new book edited by ITAS scientists presents the ongoing transformation of energy supply as a multi-dimensional process. It focuses on the thesis that analytical dimensions interact with each other in shaping the energy future.
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Technology Assessment in Practice and Theory
Head of ITAS Armin Grunwald gives a comprehensive overview on the field of TA – including the motivations for TA, its history and current practices. Based on profound experience he also provides a fresh theoretical perspective on TA in a global context.
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