Technology and Society in Asia

This course examines two dynamic concurrent trends: the rapid advances in new technologies and the rise of Asia as an economic powerhouse driving these advances globally. Grounded in interdisciplinary approaches, this course will encourage critical reflection on the interlocking logistical, ethical, gendered, cultural and political considerations faced by Asian people on a daily basis when it comes to new technologies. These trends include digitalisation, artificial intelligence (A.I.) and science and technology studies (STS) more broadly. The course therefore provides up-to-date knowledge about emerging agendas in new technologies that are revolutionising Asian economic, creative and geopolitical possibilities, which ultimately impact our lives here in Australia too. The course will help prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving technological spaces that are opening up in the Asian region and beyond. It will provide a grounding of Asian culture, society and gender as central to understanding how these technological spaces have evolved, and where they are heading next.