Research Area G: Integrative Platform of Reflexion and Evaluation

New simulation technologies will bring inspiration to all areas of science. But will the general public react kindly? To what extent can simulations have an impact on everyday life? Will they be accepted as helpful or met with hostility? Consumer acceptance is an important factor which is studied by the philosophers and social scientists working together in Research Area G.

Better assessment of technological impacts

All Cluster activities will be reflected on from ethical and sociological points of view as a type of technological impact assessment. One interesting question is, for example, to what extent simulation results can provide a basis for political decisions. This is being studied as far as CO₂ sequestration goes. If simulations lead to the conclusion that CO₂ can be stored safely in deeper layers of earth, it is possible that such plans would be pushed by politicians and eventually put into action. But how safe is safe? What is real, what becomes real and what collateral uncertainties can be expected?

Uncertainties and impreciseness

SimTech has a top team of renowned experts in technical philosophy and scientific theory to deal with such topics. These researchers make suggestions for – amongst others – terms and models to their colleagues from the other Research Areas e.g. for typifying uncertainties and impreciseness. This means that the partners take a differentiated view throughout the entire Cluster, which benefits projects both in the conception phase and during running.

The human as a totally predictable being?

SimTech’s five great visions are also at the centre of reflection. Scientists would like to find out, for example, if a fully simulated person really is a fully predictable being and how more reliable prognosis on human conduct can change our self-image as autonomous, responsible people.

History of simulation

All questions dealt with in Research Area G will also be considered in a historical context. The history of simulation is connected closely to the success story of the computer which started around 1940. All facets of simulation technology will be studied – from its start as a new technology right up to the turn of the millennium – to gain important insights for further developments.

SimTech projects related Research Area G can be found in the following Project Networks: