Technology Ethics and Cultural Perspectives: A Look at China鈥檚 Approach
Technology Ethics and Cultural Perspectives: A Look at China’s Approach
Research Associate Zhu Linfan, Fudan University
Open Webinar on Thursday, March 13 from 13:00 to 14:00
Link: https://syddanskuni.zoom.us/j/68084267660
(in case of any issues joining the webinar, please email Anne Gerdes: gerdes@sdu.dk)
Abstract
With the rapid development of emerging technologies, technology ethics has become an important means of addressing technological risks. Different countries have designed distinct systems and norms based on their own ethical and cultural backgrounds. Compared to regions like the United States and Europe, where the history of ethics and the transparency of institutions are relatively well-established, ethics review systems and regulations are more widely understood. In contrast, China is often seen as a "black box" from the perspective of Western countries. This lecture does not aim to provide a comprehensive introduction to China’s ethics review system, but rather to offer some insights that will help reduce stereotypes and increase mutual understanding, fostering a new dialogue on this basis.
Bio
Zhu Linfan, Ph. D., is an associate researcher at Fudan University specializing in AI ethics, experimental ethics, and the philosophy of cognitive science. He holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Peking University and has studied at Shanxi University and the University of Copenhagen. Zhu conducted postdoctoral research in the philosophy of Science at Fudan from 2019 to 2022 and has published several papers.
The Institute of Technology Ethics for Human Future
The Fudan University Institute of Technology Ethics for Human Future was established to address the ethical challenges posed by emerging technologies such as biomedical engineering, big data, and AI. In partnership with the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), the institute focuses on developing theoretical frameworks and strategic solutions to critical ethical issues in global health, digital technologies, and AI. Its research covers neuroethics, medical ethics, AI ethics, and environmental ethics, addressing both theoretical and practical challenges in these areas. The institute also aims to contribute China’s perspective to global discussions on science and technology ethics. Key initiatives include establishing a Digital Ethics Laboratory, launching the journal Technoethics Inquiry, offering a master’s program in Applied Ethics, and promoting international collaboration through joint research and talent exchange. The institute is committed to enhancing China’s role in global ethical governance and supporting Shanghai’s digital transformation and economic development.