Dialogue-based technology communication is the key to technology acceptance

New technologies can only succeed if they are accepted by society – and technology acceptance is not something that can be artificially manufactured. acatech promotes dialogue-based technology communication that – rather than simply providing information – actively engages with the public and their knowledge, values and interests.

acatech analyses social negotiation processes relating to technology, developing and testing dialogue formats based on its findings. In doing so, the academy hopes to build a broad consensus between different interests and values and promote the opportunities offered by technology, helping the public to shape new technologies.

TechnikRadar – a representative survey

Are the Germans technophobes? Which technologies are especially controversial? And are there any patterns in terms of how people’s individual circumstances affect their attitudes to technology? These questions are addressed by the “TechnikRadar” survey carried out by acatech and the Körber Foundation. This representative survey investigates attitudes towards new technologies and the factors that lead to them being accepted or rejected by the public.

The relationship between science, the public and the media

“The relationship between science, the public and the media” was the title of a joint project carried out by acatech and the other academies of science. In the second phase of this project, the academies are now exploring how social media influence science communication. acatech has also analysed basic principles and new forms of technology communication in the context of specific topics such as biotechnology.

Exploring new forms of technology communication

acatech tests and implements its findings about technology communication in its own events and initiatives. At the “acatech am Dienstag” (acatech on Tuesday) events held at the acatech Forum on Munich’s Karolinenplatz, the academy hosts discussions that are open to the public. Meanwhile, acatech’s PUNKT prize for technology journalism and technology photography recognises outstanding contributions to technology journalism. The academy cultivates partnerships with adult education centres, religious organisations and foundations, working with these civil society organisations to promote technology communication.