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Philosophical Perspectives on the 'Crisis of Trust' in Science and Technology
Philosophische Perspektiven auf die 'Krise des Vertrauens' in Wissenschaft und Technik
Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:31:13
Abstract
The seminar examines the current "crisis of trust" in science, technology and politics. First, philosophical concepts of trust and mistrust will be analyzed. Then, examples such as climate skepticism and algorithmic opacity will be explored to discuss the causes of trust erosion and its societal consequences.
Objective
The students will learn fundamental philosophical theories of trust and mistrust in the context of current phenomena such as AI-driven technologies. They will develop the ability to define trust and mistrust in a context-specific manner, analyze the causes of trust erosion, and critically examine the societal implications of the current "crisis of trust."
Content
In public and academic debates, there is an increasing discussion about a "crisis of trust" that affects sciences, political institutions, and technologies. To understand this crisis, the seminar pursues a dual objective: First, we will engage with fundamental philosophical perspectives to clarify what trust actually means and under what conditions it arises. A particular focus will be on AI-driven technologies, examining the key factors that determine whether something is considered trustworthy. Second, we will analyze specific examples—such as skepticism toward climate science or the opacity of algorithmic black boxes—to explore the causes of the current loss of trust and discuss the resulting societal consequences.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 35
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | Philosophische Perspektiven auf die 'Krise des Vertrauens' in Wissenschaft und Technik |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Wissenschaft im Kontext (Science in Perspective) (In Kursen aus dem Programm “Wissenschaft im Kontext” lernen Studierende, die MINT Fächer der ETH aus der Perspektive der Geistes-, Sozial- und Staatswissenschaften zu reflektieren. Nur die in diesem Abschnitt aufgelisteten Fächer können als "Wissenschaft im Kontext" angerechnet werden.)
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Typ A: Förderung allgemeiner Reflexionskompetenz (WiK-Kurse werden für Bachelorstudierende nach dem ersten Studienjahr sowie für alle Masterstudierende und Doktorierende empfohlen. Alle WiK-Kurse sind in Typ A gelistet. Bei den unter Typ B aufgeführten Kursen handelt es sich lediglich um Belegungsempfehlungen für bestimmte Departemente.)
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