Image: UNSECO World Logic Day. © Angelo Cordeschi / Shutterstock.com [Link]
“Without philosophy, education becomes the blind tool of political power; without politics, education is cut off from the reality for which it should be the preparation.”
(Minna Specht, 1944)
This quote from Minna Specht, one of the most important educational reformers in post-war Germany, reflects her great optimism about the potential of philosophy to foster critical and responsible thinking and action. I am convinced that the history and philosophy of science and technology, with their openness to different positions and methods, encourage critical engagement with the challenges and processes of societal and technological transformation. Passing this on to the younger generation is a major task. In my opinion, this also involves critically reflecting on the content and methods of the history and philosophy of science and technology themselves.
Recent Courses
In this course, an approach to the political, economic, social and cultural dimensions of technology development is acquired. Selected historical and current examples will be analyzed to see how technology emerges and with what consequences artifacts, processes and services are socially appropriated. Under which social conditions, in which economic situations and political contexts does technology emerge? How is it discussed, implemented, changed or discarded? Emphasis is placed on the history of technology development in the second half of the 20th century as well as on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and the demands it poses for explanation, decision, trust and responsibility. [Link]
At the turn of the 19th century, a new historical era begins—modernity—which continues to this day. The 19th century is marked by an unprecedented speed of social, technological, and cultural change, as well as by population and economic growth. Societies’ self-descriptions, their relationship to space and time, and their attitudes toward nature and technology all undergo transformation. Modernity is a significant era for us because it extends into the present. This lecture is part of a two-semester cycle on the history of technology, which continues in the winter semester with the history of technology in the 20th century. [Link]
In this seminar we will explore research techniques to explain sociotechnical change since the second half of the 20th century. We will focus on the history of the car industry and car cultures: on the way they shaped cities and spaces and its transition from the mechanical to the digital age. There will be an emphasis on methods: on working with hybrid (paper, computer and sensor based; written and visual) and multimodal source material and on how actors produced and used knowledge. Our analyses will include the contributions of women who have worked in offices, in design and production processes. [Link]
Bachelor's thesis “Stitches and Knots. Knitting between Mathematical Research and Teaching”, University of Siegen 2023
Bachelor's thesis “The Underrepresentation of Women and Girls in Mathematical Professions: An Analysis of Social Causes and Solutions”, University of Siegen 2023
Educational Resources
Gender & Mathematik: Gendering MINT Digital
This project, hosted by Humboldt University Berlin, investigates how gender influences experiences and participation in MINT (Mathematics, Informatics, Natural sciences, and Technology) fields, with a particular focus on digital methods and tools. It aims to challenge stereotypes, promote gender-sensitive approaches in STEM education and research, and foster inclusive digital environments. Learn more at the Gendering MINT Digital website.
Online Reading Guide: Du Châtelet’s Foundations of Physics
An in-depth digital resource designed to accompany readers of Emilie du Châtelet’s Foundations of Physics, one of the earliest comprehensive treatments of Newtonian physics by a woman philosopher and scientist. This guide provides historical context, interpretive aids, and scholarly commentary to make this foundational text more accessible and highlight Du Châtelet’s significant contributions. Explore the guide at the History of Women Philosophers site.
Gender Studies Resources
What is gender, and why does it matter? Where did gender studies originate, and how has the field evolved? These open educational resources offer clear, accessible introductions to foundational questions in gender studies. While I haven’t contributed to these resources directly, I regularly use them in my teaching.
Toolbox Gender und Diversity in der Lehre – Freie Universität Berlin
Center for the History of Women Philosophers and Scientists – Paderborn University