In recent decades, biomimicry, biomimetics, bioinspired materials, and biorobotics have emerged as fields driven by inspiration from nature’s objects and processes. These disciplines are rich in concepts like autonomy, adaptation, and sustainability, suggesting a new, intertwined view of nature and technology. However, questions arise about whether these ideas are genuinely novel or continue older metaphors and discourses, and how these metaphors shape or limit scientific actions. This workshop will bring together HPS experts to examine how these metaphors influence the fields of biomimetics and biorobotics, the actions they enable, and their impact on shaping a new conceptual landscape for the 21st century.
Info: Marco Tamborini (marco.tamborini@tu-darmstadt.de)
Venue and dates: Cluster of Excellence »Matters of Activity« Central Laboratory Sophienstraße 22a, 10178 Berlin | 21.11.2024–22.11.2024
Organizers: Michael Friedman, Hsm Bonn and Marco Tamborini, TU Darmstadt