Digital Humanism
The Influence of Digital Developments on Society
Digital technologies are all the rage. The present is characterized, among other things, by short-lived trends and collective omnipresence. Digital transformation and developments are shaping society. Optimized workflows, information, efficient routines, and multitasking skills are more in demand than ever. Technological developments and digital applications support us in our daily lives. Daily tasks are often no longer simply a series of consecutive activities; boundaries are blurring and becoming increasingly indistinct. Smart applications, artificial intelligence, tools, and intelligent systems are meant to make our lives easier. The washing machine is running, the music is on, and while we sit sipping coffee in front of our screens, simultaneously checking the news or likes on our smartphones, we are subject to the urge for constant activity and entertainment. To what extent these developments are perceived as a curse or a blessing depends not least on individual handling, but to what extent do we actually have any influence over them? Are we being controlled by digitalization? Is technology rationalizing humanity out of existence?
Societal Rethinking: Nature vs. Technology
In light of climate projections, a societal rethinking is underway. In the current era, we find ourselves caught between technological advancements and a return to nature. Sustainability, a romanticized return to analog life, and humanity are once again taking center stage. The original intention behind technological achievements was to support humankind; therefore, it makes sense to adapt them more closely to human needs and make them more user-friendly. Features such as flexible settings and digital life hacks offer additional options. Generating innovative ideas appears to be a balancing act between forward-looking, sometimes even transhumanist, aspirations and a return to digital humanism, where technological developments can coexist harmoniously with humanity and nature.
“Digital Humanism” at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences
Beyond the numerous advantages of modern communication and information technologies, critical voices are increasingly calling for a responsible approach to digital transparency. St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences is exploring the intelligent use of digitalization and its integration into teaching, addressing, among other things, the question of whether a new, digital humanism is needed—one that places people at the center of digital technology development. Alongside numerous innovative projects, this internationally networked university, as a research-oriented institution, is committed to knowledge transfer and dissemination. Digitalization is indispensable in this context; however, just as in research, it is crucial to promote a responsible approach to algorithms, decisions, ethical values, human rights, transparency, and fundamental data protection issues. The goal is to place people back at the heart of progressive digital transformation, to align innovations with human needs, and to always consider fundamental values such as respect, privacy, boundaries, and tolerance. Digital progress not only influences our culture and our economic conditions, it encompasses all areas of our lives; therefore, these must also be included in the development of new technologies.
Events and Networking Platform APART
Current conditions require flexible measures and alternative offerings. St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences has addressed these challenges and created numerous innovative event formats. Inspiring chats and online lectures regularly feature discussions on pressing topics in a virtual forum. The Digital Makers Hub's Inspiring Chat "Humanistic Digitalization", the podcast "Do We Need a New Digital Humanism?", and the online panel discussion on "Synergies Between Art, Technology, and Politics" have already explored this theme. Furthermore, the new initiative APART – the Austrian Platform for Art and Tech Thinking – led by FH-Prof. DI Hannes Raffaseder (CRO & CINO at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, leading coordinator of the European University E³UDRES², digitalization expert, composer, and media artist), was presented. This initiative promotes the interaction of art and technology as an open platform. In this context, it is important to promote education, international networking, transdisciplinary collaborations, and the exchange of experience, as well as to consider artistic expression, such as creativity, art, and culture. APART connects institutions, companies, initiatives, and individuals. The platform aims to combine scientific expertise, technical know-how, and economic thinking with artistic experience to foster innovation, activity, and reflective exchange. This network was initiated to discuss social inequalities and promote digital humanism. The initiative fosters multiperspectivity and knowledge exchange to close technological gaps. APART is committed to a human-centered design of a sustainable society and to promoting an inclusive, participatory, and creative digital transformation.
More information about the initiative, collaborations & activities
