Aims/Tasks

Tasks
The work of the Europäische Akademie is based on the assumption that the sciences, in addition to providing specialised scientific information, also are responsible for furnishing orientational knowledge. To achieve this, an inter-disciplinary approach is required, bringing together the results from the natural sciences, engineering sciences and medical disciplines with thematically relevant studies in philosophy, jurisprudence, economics and social sciences. Furthermore, the foreseeable results of research and development are to be related trans-disciplinarily to the expected societal needs and positions. In the course of its work, the Europäische Akademie takes up and develops approaches towards technology assessment, ethics of technology and medical ethics.

Aims
The Europäische Akademie seeks to assist in finding a rational way for society to deal with the consequences of scientific and technological developments. This aim is mainly achieved by developing and recommending options upon which to act, with respect to long-term societal acceptance. The rational resolution of conflicts in the area of science and technology is an important prerequisite for long-term, reliable science and technology policy. In the course of its scientific work, the Europäische Akademie ensures that the responsibility of the scientific community towards the whole of society is duely fulfilled.

Working Method
The work of the Europäische Akademie is mainly conducted by temporary interdisciplinary project groups. Members of these project groups are recognised scientists from universities and non-university research organisations in Europe. In specific cases, representatives from other areas of society, e.g. from industry, can also be nominated. Each group elects a chairperson from among its members. The project groups’ members make up the Akademie’s council.
Trans-disciplinary issues, relevant for several or all project groups, are dealt with in the study groups by the staff of the Europäische Akademie. Through the participation of European scientists, European co-operation with corresponding advisory bodies, through participation in relevant networks and through specific regard to European aspects within the projects, consideration of the European perspective is ensured.
The results of the project and study groups are made available in the form of subject-related studies as a basis for advice and decision-making. The work is also accompanied by conferences. Additionally, the Europäische Akademie hosts biannual conventions during which comprehensive and methodological issues from the fields of science ethics and technology assessment are discussed.

Target Groups
The results of the scientific work of the Europäische Akademie address the relevant scientific disciplines and political authorities in the fields of science and technology in Europe. Beyond that, with its work it addresses the public, potentially affected by the consequences of science and technology.
The Europäische Akademie expects its scientific work to have repercussions on the conception of science itself. Through rational reflection about the consequences of science and technology, the responsibility of the scientist as a key factor in the self-regulation of the scientific system can be strengthened.