3 EC
Semester 2, period 6
5394QUIS3Y
This course explores the ethical, epistemological, legal, policy, and geopolitical dimensions of quantum technologies. While second-generation quantum technologies such as quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing, and quantum simulation are being developed, it is crucial to reflect on the societal implications of quantum technology for various stakeholders.
This course combines insights from various disciplines and historical cases of technology development to equip the student with the skills and knowledge to critically assess and participate in the debates on the societal impact of quantum technology and how to shape its future.
The course is structured around a set of readings and will involve a combination of interactive lectures and tutorials. The lectures will feature guest speakers who will cover specific topics. The tutorials will consist of group discussions, student presentations, and a debate.
Literature will be provided digitally and will include a selection of scientific papers and book chapters.
A detailed syllabus will be provided during the course.
|
Activity |
Hours |
|
|
Interactive lectures, Seminars and Self-study |
84 |
|
|
Total |
84 |
(3 EC x 28 hours) |
| Item and weight | Details |
|
Final grade | |
|
5 (50%) Group project | |
|
3 (30%) Presentation | |
|
2 (20%) Debate |
Students will work in small groups to write a report on one of the topics discussed during the course. They are required to present their project in a precise and understandable way to a group of people who are not experts in the field of quantum computing.
Students will participate in debates with one another on several topics from the lectures. They will be graded based on their performance.
The 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' applies to this course. This will be monitored carefully. Upon suspicion of fraud or plagiarism the Examinations Board of the programme will be informed. For the 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' see: www.student.uva.nl
Week 1: philosophy of technology and epistemology. What are technologies and what does it mean to understand a technology? How do technologies embody moral values?
Week 2: ethics of quantum technologies. How do quantum technologies pose moral dilemmas and how can various ethical theories respond to them?
Week 3: policy and geopolitics. How does quantum technology affect the governance of technology? How can innovation policy foresee, leverage, and adjust to future challenges in various domains? What are the geopolitical implications of quantum and what shifts are likely to occur?
Week 4: legal aspects of quantum technologies. How do existing laws and regulations affect quantum technologies and what gaps or uncertainties remain? What are the main roles and responsibilities of different regulators? How are standards legally recognised and enforced? Is there a legal duty for governments and institutions to adopt quantum-safe technologies?