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Technology, Development, and Colonialism in the Age of Empire (c. 1800–1950)
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:15:53
Abstract
This course explores the manifold interconnections existing between technology, development and colonialism in the period between c. 1800 and 1950. Central to this seminar is the development of technologies such as means of transportation, architecture, passports, torture techniques in relation to the colonial experience, decolonisation and development, especially in Asian and African settings.
Objective
Students will be able to a) develop new perspectives on their core subjects by bringing them in dialogue with the themes dealt with and raising ethical questions; b) familiarise with relevant topics examined by recent scholarship in the specific context of colonialism; c) think critically of the present through a better understanding of technology and development and their relationship with power.
Content
Students learn the history of technology and development from around 1800 to 1950 through examples taking into account theoretical texts and empirical case studies from the relevant multidisciplinary scholarship with a special, albeit not exclusive, focus on colonial contexts in Asia and Africa. More specifically, students are sensitized to the historical, political and cultural variabilities of technology and development beyond their supposedly objective rationale and within discourses of so-called civilising and modernising missions. The course is structured thematically, adopts a multidisciplinary approach, and uses academic texts as well as concrete examples.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , DR
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 20
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar |
Technology, Development, and Colonialism in the Age of Empire (c. 1800–1950)
Block Course
|
|
24 h semesterly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses. Particularly relevant for students interested in those subjects. All these courses are also listed under the category “Typ A”, and every student can enroll in these courses.)
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Doctorate Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )