Workshop “Understanding Science and Technology”

Asking the right questions, finding sensible answers—it all hinges upon understanding. An understanding of the world around us, of the capacities and ramifications of our technologies, and of what matters to us. But what does it really mean to 'understand' something? On 3 April, Sebastian De Haro and Eline de Jong hosted a workshop titled 'Understanding Science and Technology: From Fundamental Science to Technology, Quantum and Society' at the Institute for Advanced Study of the University of Amsterdam. Together with speakers like Professor Henk de Regt (Radboud University) and 20 participants from different disciplines, they delved into the nexus of understanding in science, technology, and society, pondering questions like: Can AI deepen scientific understanding? What kind of understanding is involved in designing and using technology? And what defines 'public' understanding of science and technology?