About the event​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The Delft Design for Values Institute invites you to the Design for Human Autonomy Conference!

This event will share cutting-edge knowledge, practical perspectives, and innovative insights to foster the aim of design for human autonomy. You can expect an inspiring day with talks from one of the world’s leading scholars on the ethics of influence, Cass Sunstein, interactive workshops and the award of the best TU Delft student thesis on the topic of Design for Human autonomy.

The Design for Values Institute has selected the value Human Autonomy for the Annual Theme of 2024-2025 and this will be the closing event of the theme.

Why Human Autonomy?

The drive for autonomous technology spans from workplaces to personal lives, promising breakthroughs in safety, healthcare, and daily conveniences. But this raises a crucial question: What happens to human autonomy? Historically seen as a tool to enhance our freedom, today’s technology risks undermining human control and agency.

The quest for more autonomous technology has become a focal point of academic inquiry and public discourse. From the workplace, where we envision robots taking over hazardous tasks, to our personal lives, where intelligent AI assistants may soon play a significant role in healthcare and education, the allure of autonomy in technology is undeniable. This fascination extends to contexts as diverse as warfare, where autonomous drones both elicit fear and promise safety, and to our homes, where smart companions, caregivers, and lovers could transform everyday life.

In the pursuit of design that enhances human autonomy, the Design for Values Institute is a pioneer, actively involved in creating awareness, providing guidance, and fostering a dialogue on human autonomy in technological design. The institute aims to fundamentally change how we understand and accept technology, resulting in the increase of autonomy of people and a better society. This event serves as a stepping stone to bring these discussions forward.

For who is the event?

The event is open for anyone, but is specifically organized for researchers and practitioners working on technology (design) which have an effect on the autonomy of humans.

All Contributors

NOTE: More to be added

Program

NOTE: More details will follow. The exact program can change.

Location

Vakwerkhuis

DUWO Building

Professor Schermerhornstraat 4, 2628 PZ Delft

Accessible via public transport with bus stop Delft, Zuidpoort or Michel de Ruyterweg.

15 minutes walk from Delft train station.

Only very limited paid parking available.