Beginning with the industrial revolution, and the massive impact it had far into the 20th century, we can see again and again how advances in automation provoke social upheaval. By means of technological progress, fueled by a globally connected economy, disruptive technologies impact our lives and communities more and more frequently.

The discussion on so-called ’future trends’ often appears too simplified and shortsighted. In debates artificial intelligence, predictive policing/mass surveillance, Industry 4.0, high-frequency trading, automated warfare, etc. are often framed by marketing campaigns as an ’obvious necessity’.

• Who profits from automation?
• Which longterm consequences arise from the wide-spread use of automation technologies?
• How does automated decision making and the changing job market impact the possibility of democratic participation?
• Which concepts can help to make the next surge of automation benificial for all members of society?
• Which potential for emancipation and (re)organization may hide in this technological change?
• How do we decide how far technological systems (should) reach into our private lives?

The series Autotopia aims to discuss these question in various formats. We do not target any specific group; we invite makers, hackers, writers, artists and designers, scientists and journalists, enthusiasts and critics!

At the moment we are looking for speakers and are going to lay down precise dates and formats in the next couple of weeks. We are planning to do talks, workshops, readings, film screenings and discussions. Is there someone you know, who we should absolutely ask?