Waag Futurelab marks a quarter century of pioneering interdisciplinary innovation
Celebrating 25 years, Waag Futurelab continues to lead at the intersection of science, art, and technology, crafting solutions for societal challenges.
A Beacon for Collaborative Innovation
Waag Futurelab stands out as a beacon for collaborative innovation, commemorating 25 years of significant contributions to the fusion of science, technology, and art. The Amsterdam-based institute has become synonymous with cutting-edge projects that blend these disciplines to tackle pressing societal issues. With its roots firmly planted in interdisciplinary practice, Waag Futurelab’s work over the past quarter-century has been a testament to the power of collective intelligence and creative synergy.
Prioritizing AI Research in the Netherlands
Recently, Waag Futurelab has underscored the Dutch population’s concerns regarding artificial intelligence (AI) through their research. A notable 58% of respondents have identified the topics of ‘fake news, doctored photographs, and polarization’ as critical areas for AI development and research[1]. This reflects a growing awareness and prioritization of AI’s impact on information integrity and societal cohesion.
Crafting the Future with Tracks4Crafts
Embarking on the new European research project Tracks4Crafts, Waag Futurelab is on a mission to discover the ‘Craftsperson 2.0’. The initiative seeks individuals who are unafraid to blend traditional crafts with modern technology, thus fostering an environment where artisans can evolve in tandem with technological advancements[2].
Empowering Youth in Technological Citizenship
An ongoing project at Waag Futurelab focuses on technological citizenship, specifically targeting the autonomy of young people over their social media presence. Reflection on this project emphasizes the importance of including the younger generation in decision-making processes about technology, which has become an integral part of their daily lives[3].
Advancing Digital Public Infrastructure
Tom Demeyer, an esteemed figure at Waag Futurelab, takes on a new role as a research fellow, with a specialized focus on digital public infrastructure. In his new capacity, Demeyer will delve deeper into the foundational aspects of our digital society and how they can be restructured to serve the public good more effectively[4].
The Hidden Complexities of 5G
Waag Futurelab’s Smart Citizens Lab recently addressed the ‘black box’ of 5G technology, questioning who truly desires faster internet and why. This exploration exposes the myriad of considerations, choices, and interests behind 5G’s design, highlighting how these decisions might shape our society in the years to come[5].