On November 23, 2024, the International Symposium on “Politics of Technologies in the Digital Age II” hosted a significant discussion on the ethical and existential implications of digital transformation at the “Karolos Papoulias” Conference Hall, University of Ioannina. Among the thought-provoking sessions, a standout presentation was delivered by the Tethics project team, shedding light on their innovative approach to addressing ethical dilemmas in contemporary technology.
The Tethics Perspective on Ethical Challenges
Representing the Tethics project, Aristotle Tympas, Professor and Project Coordinator from NKUA, and Iason Spilios, Postdoctoral Researcher from Galaxea Advisory, presented their collaborative insights in the session titled “Understanding Ethical Dilemmas of Contemporary Technology: The EU Project TethicsGame Approach.“
Their presentation highlighted the foundational principles of Tethics, a serious board game designed to engage participants in ethical decision-making regarding modern technological challenges. The game leverages real-world scenarios in AI, environmental ethics, and biomedicalization to foster critical thinking and understanding of how societal values intersect with technological advancements.
Key Themes Explored
The Tethics team delved into the following key areas during their presentation:
- Ethics by Design: Emphasizing proactive ethical considerations in technology development.
- Value Sensitive Design: Highlighting the integration of human-centered values like equity, privacy, and transparency in decision-making.
- Socio-technical Dynamics: Analyzing how societal groups influence and are influenced by technological design choices.
Engaging Stakeholders Through Gameplay
The presenters showcased how the Tethics board game immerses players in real-world ethical dilemmas, encouraging them to assume roles such as the State, Market, Researchers, and the Public. Through interactive gameplay, participants gain insights into the complexities of ethical governance in technology, exploring questions of accountability, inclusivity, and societal impact.
Feedback and Reflections
The audience, comprising academics, policymakers, and technology professionals, engaged in a vibrant discussion on the practical applications of Tethics in educational and professional settings. The feedback underscored the relevance of the game as a pedagogical tool to bridge the gap between abstract ethical concepts and tangible decision-making processes.
A Step Toward Responsible Innovation
The inclusion of the Tethics project at the symposium highlighted its role in shaping a more thoughtful and ethical approach to technological innovation. By fostering dialogue and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, Tethics contributes to the broader discourse on the digital transformation of the public sphere.
