Our present is shaped by digital technologies, which impact both private and public communication, the formation of opinions, autonomy, relationships, and much more. However, technical developments do not inevitably shape communities like natural forces; they can be influenced by their use. This lecture series provides food for thought on shaping individual life management and coexistence in modern societies.

Information drought despite the flood of news - How digital news is changing our society

November 21, 2022: Prof. Dr. Albrecht Schmidt (TU Munich):

In the lives of nearly 8 billion people, unimaginably many things happen. With Twitter, Instagram, and others, a global flood of news emerges. Algorithms are necessary to select what individuals see from it. Does this make us better informed, or does it make us more susceptible to manipulation?

Participation justice in the world of work: The opportunities of digitization

December 8, 2022: Dr. Hauke Behrendt (University of Stuttgart):

Amid justified concerns about new waves of automation, it is often overlooked that digitization also offers opportunities to secure the participation of people who would otherwise be affected by exclusion in the labor market. If we use its potential correctly, digitization can serve social progress.

"There's more to come!" On the encouragement and demand for self-optimization in the age of digitization

December 19, 2022: Prof. Dr. Thomas Schmaus (Alanus University, Alfter):

In the age of digitization, those who strive for self-realization have the concept of self-optimization at their disposal, which seems to meet both individual interests and societal expectations. But does it really promote a successful life, or does it hinder it?

Prerequisites for responsible communication in digital contexts

January 9, 2023: Prof. Dr. Micha Werner (University of Greifswald):

Digital technologies also transform the forms of social communication. What changes in the prerequisites and possibilities of responsible communication arise, and how do specific decisions about the technical design of digital communication platforms affect them?

Digitization and the culture of dying

January 16, 2023: PD Dr. Jessica Heesen (University of Tübingen):

The Digital Afterlife Industry (DAI) enables the "continuation" and interaction with digital representations of the deceased. It raises far-reaching questions regarding the culture of dying, postmortem personality rights, and the contradictions between propriety and data economy.

Feelings for Replika? - On the possibility of a relationship with a chatbot

January 26, 2023: Prof. Dr. Eva Weber-Guskar (University of Bochum):

Millions of people engage with the social chatbot Replika through an app. Many even develop positive feelings for Replika. Can we speak of a real relationship here? Can a relationship with a chatbot enrich a human life, or is it fundamentally problematic?