This course introduces students to new epistemologies which emerge through the transformation of biology into technology and the rise of biomediality. Whereas former media theory approaches have concentrated mainly on technological media and human–machine interactions, recent innovations make it necessary to include also living matter in the curriculum of media theory, because in the expanding sphere of biomediality, biology becomes technology: DNA codes and computer codes are increasingly merging, opening up new possible constellations for designing nature. The ramifications of these changes are explored in the course in a cross-disciplinary approach, taking into account artistic responses as well as the respective discourses and practices in the sciences, in order to develop a critical understanding of biomediality. The course aims to open up a process of engaged and cooperative learning and to accomplish ways of knowing to contextualise and understand new approaches in art, science, and society. The course will also include a number of hands-on experiences in basic methods of biotechnology and genome editing.

You have to attend the lecture each week. To participate effectively in class required readings are expected. In addition each student is required to give a talk to a given topic.

It is important for seminar participants to attend the introductory session on October 8th, 2018. 12-13:30 -

The topics for the lectures will be assigned and information provided about the subjects and issues that we will deal with over the course of the term. Documents and materials will be available in the course.