Name |
: |
Technology, Innovation and ethics for companies |
Period |
: |
Q1 |
EC |
: |
2.5 |
Educational method(s) |
: |
Lectures and workshops |
Course code |
: |
WM |
Lecturers |
: |
Prof.dr. M.J. van den Hoven, prof.dr. I.R. van de Poel |
Contribution of course to objectives |
: |
This course deals with the societal and ethical responsibility of companies when it comes to innovation |
Course description
This course deals with the societal and ethical responsibility of companies when it comes to innovation. How should companies deal with ethical issues and concerns? How can/should companies deal with the (unknown) risks of new technologies like nanotechnology, robotics, medical devices and genetically modified food? How can one design effective corporate policies that are intended to modify the behaviour of firms?
In this course we will look at innovation of companies and ethical considerations from both a process and product perspective, for example:
- Anticipatory: were possible risks and social and ethical issues of the new product anticipated during the pilot?
- Reflective: did the company reflect on possible social impacts and aims of the new product?
- Deliberative: was there a social process of deliberation including a diversity of stakeholders for example through the stakeholder dialogues?
- Have disadvantages and risks been minimized as much as possible?
- Was the company responsive to social concerns and possible consequences?
Objectives
After taking this course the student:
- Is able to analyse ethical aspects of innovation and moral responsibilities of companies
- Is familiar with tools and concepts to analyse the risk of new technologies
- Is able to apply the above to a concrete case study
Assessment
- Written exam: 70%
- Final assignment (team work): 30%
Literature
TBA