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Digital Nature and the Naturality of the Digital
Digitale Natur und die Natürlichkeit des Digitalen
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:38:07
Abstract
How did "nature" and "the digital" influence each other since the second half of the 20th century? During this seminar we want to historically investigate the interrelations between a supposedly natural environment and the digital space.
Objective
In the seminar we will deal with key discussions from environmental history, media theory and the history of computing in order to connect the transformations of the planetary environment and the digital sphere. In addition, we will engage with specific research projects from environmental sciences, glaciology, or spatial planning, among others.
Content
In this seminar we want to investigate the interrelations between a supposedly natural environment of nature and the digital space. We argue that "nature" and "the digital" have been connected in exciting and diverse ways over the last decades. On the one hand, climate models or fish school simulations produced a body of knowledge about nature; on the other hand, metaphors such as the "digital sphere" or "data flow" shape our expectations about the performance of digital space. So how did "nature" and "the digital" converge, influence, and support each other since the second half of the 20th century?
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 25
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | Digitale Natur und die Natürlichkeit des Digitalen |
|
2 h weekly |
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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