2nd STS Austria Conference. "Innovation and Societal Transformation: ...

“Innovation and Societal Transformation: Science, Democracy, and Sustainable Futures”. The dynamics and interrelationships between innovation and social change are one of the key topics in STS (Science, Technology & Society Studies), as well as a key issue in the exploration of sustainable futures. Around the globe and in many diverseways, innovation has become a persistent concern — be it with regard to the competitivenessof research and business; the expected economic, environmental or social impacts; or the controversies around perceived future challenges, opportunities and ramifications. While the predominant notion of Innovation is considered linear and primarily techno‐scientific, STS analyses aim at better understanding the material, temporal and social complexities of innovation across various domains of contemporary societies. On this basis, the goal is to enlighten public debate and equip actors to be better able to contribute to the governance of innovation in society.