How Art Can Contribute to Ethical Reflection on Risky Technologies

Abstract

Current debates about risky technologies such as robotics and biotechnology are usually quite heated and end up in stalemates, due to the scientific and moral complexities of these risks. In this essay Sabine Roeser examines the role that works of art can play in such debates. Recently, artists have become involved with risky technologies; this is what Roeser calls ‘techno-art’. Roeser argues that, by prompting emotions, techno-art helps to make abstract problems concrete, explore new scenarios, challenge the imagination, and broaden narrow personal perspectives. She also discusses the possible challenges for techno-art, such as how to preserve the non-instrumental nature of art while playing a role in public debates, and how to do so in a meaningful way.