Internet applications such as social networks, search engines, or media streaming platforms are in the centre of our daily life. However, we often forget that these technologies are hardly neutral tools, but stand for particular interests.

Internet applications such as social networks, search engines, or media streaming platforms are in the centre of our daily life. However, we often forget that these technologies are hardly neutral tools, but stand for particular interests.

Digitalisation is fundamentally changing our lives: from the education system to the labour market or the way we organise our leisure time. Which needs are being met, which are not?

Wherever energy is used, we currently witness a life-changing transition: In order to slow down climate change, wide-spread efforts are being made to end dependence on coal, gas and oil.

What are our visions for the future? How do we want to live, and what possibilities does technology offer us?

Assistive technologies promise an active and self-determined life for older people or people with disabilities. To fulfill this vision, the needs of users have to be taken into account during the development process.

Big Data applications and the digitalisation of our everyday lives are opening up new possibilities for making machines capable of learning. Will machines soon outdo us with their abilities?

Our ressources are limited. Technology development has to face the facts. How can sustainable development help shape the innovation process?

Nano is inside foods, cosmetics or used in clothes production. But how safe are nano-products? The ITA analyses opportunities and challenges, and identifies potential health and environmental risks.

From the factory to the nursing home – robots are contributing work in areas that were previously reserved for humans. What are the consequences for the job market and the role that humans play in our world?

We are promised more security if we are willing to endure surveillance. But what happens to our privacy? And does more surveillance really result in a more secure environment?

Should we really do all we can do? Today, biotechnology makes developments possible which could have far-reaching consequences not only for plants and animals, but also for humanity.

Who decides which technologies deserve to be developed and produced? Participation is crucial when research programmes and policies are supposed to take people's needs into account.

Technology controversies have had a decisive impact on Western societies. But protests are becoming rare. Have we become too accepting, only to be able to use the latest applications?