Research themes
The 3TU.Ethics research program comprises three themes:Moral issues in engineering design and R&D
One of the key questions here is: In what ways are (moral) values embedded in engineering design and in R&D and how can design and R&D (both processes and outcomes) be made more accommodating and sensitive with regard to accepted moral values? This raises the further question which methodologies and institutional safeguards exist or can be developed for value-sensitive design and R&D.Read more
Moral issues in the use and regulation of technology
This theme focuses on ethical issues regarding the use of technology and regarding technology policy and regulation. Once developed, technical artifacts and systems are used by consumers, professionals and organizations to a variety of ends and in a variety of settings. Such uses may violate ethical standards. For example, the use of computer systems to access personal data may violate standards of privacy, and the use of engineered tissues to replace healthy tissues may violate principles of non-maleficence. The aim of this research theme is to analyze and propose morally adequate standards and principles for the use of particular technologies. It will also be studied how particular uses of technologies cohere with, or emerge, from cultural and institutional values and beliefs. The focus will be on new and emerging technologies.Read more
Values in engineering and society
This research theme focuses on foundational research, including research on central concepts like values, rationality and moral knowledge, foundational research on how to ground values, and research on shifts in societal values resulting from technological change. Its aim is to provide tools for the other two more practice-oriented research themes.Read more
