Philosophy of Science, Technology and Society (PSTS)

Can we anticipate future societal implications of nanotechnology? Are there ethical limits to the genetic modification of animals and human beings? How do new devices help to change our behaviour and our perception of the world? These kind of questions are explored in the Master's programme Philosophy of Science, Technology and Society (PSTS).

PSTS is a two­year English­language Master's programme with a strong international orientation. It teaches students to critically analyze and assess the influence of technology on society. PSTS is a philosophical Master’s on the basis of a background in engineering, typically at bachelor level, or a strong evidenced affinity with science and technology. This combination of technology and reflection enables students to analyze the relations between science, technology, and society while also being proficient in a technological field. Moreover, the combination of technological expertise on the one hand and reflection on the social and cultural roles of technology on the other makes the PSTS programme not only academically challenging but also highly socially relevant.

Characteristic for the PSTS programme is that it not only focuses on philosophical theories of technology but also uses concrete empirical research on recent developments in science, technology and society.