Designing sociotechnical systems
Description
Two major challenges for (Delft) philosophy of engineering are designing for moral values and designing sociotechnical systems. The first challenge steers philosophy of technology in a more constructive direction: instead of morally criticising existing technology, it now takes on the task of making moral values part of new technology through the design process. The second challenge is more contemplative and focuses on analysing how technology is embedded within existing constellations of social groups, regulations and institutions.
Both challenges seem tough from a more traditional engineering perspective because engineering design methods are meant for designing artefacts that meet technical requirements; the systems in which those artefacts function, or the moral values that artefacts may have, are traditionally outside the design process. However, newer design methods provide good starting points for the philosophy of technology; for example, these methods can also be used to design product-service systems for the values that clients or users have.
In his talk, Pieter Vermaas describes one such new design method - Kees Dorst's frame creation method - based on a design project in the entertainment centre of Sydney, Australia. Using this description, he analyses some of the problems that philosophy of engineering faces when it takes up its two challenges.
Prior to the talk, the General Assembly of the Philosophy & Engineering Department will be held from 18:00. When registering, please indicate whether you wish to attend
Pieter Vermaas is associate professor at the Philosophy Section of TU Delft. His research topics are technical artefacts, technical functions and design methods. For more information, see his personal webpage (link below).
Speaker(s)
Pieter Vermaas
Location
Utrecht
Organiser
Philosophy & Technology
Name and contact details for information
Further information from drs.ing. Henk Uijttenhout (vz), tel: 070 - 3875293 / 06 - 26715554 or via the e-mail address below.