Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2016

GESS Science in Perspective Information
Only the topics listed in this paragraph can be chosen as GESS Science in Perspective.
Further below you will find the "type B courses Reflections about subject specific methods and content" as well as the language courses.

6 ECTS need to be acquired during the BA and 2 ECTS during the MA

Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the course again.
Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence
Suitable for all students
Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the course again.
History
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0549-00LWebClass Introductory Course History of Technology Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 100.

Particularly suitable for students of D-BAUG, D-INFK, D-ITET, D-MATL, D-MAVT.
W3 credits2VG. Hürlimann
AbstractWebClass Introductory Course History of Technology is an introductory course to the history of technology. The students are challenged to discover how technological innovations take place within complex economical, political and cultural contexts. They get introduced into basic theories and practices of the field.
ObjectiveStudents are introduced into how technological innovations take place within complex economical, political and cultural contexts. They get to know basic theories and practices of the field.
ContentWebClass Einführungskurs Technikgeschichte ist eine webgestützte Einführung in die Technikgeschichte. Technikgeschichte untersucht Angebote technischer Entwicklungen, die in bestimmten historischen Kontexten entstanden und von sozialen Gruppen oder ganzen Gesellschaften als Möglichkeit sozialen Wandels wahrgenommen, ausgehandelt und schliesslich genutzt oder vergessen wurden.
Der Onlinekurs wird von zwei obligatorischen Präsenzveranstaltungen begleitet. Die aktive Teilnahme und das erfolgreiche Bearbeiten von Onlineaufgaben werden vorausgesetzt.
Lecture notesInformationen zur Arbeit mit WebClass finden Sie unter Link. Sobald Sie eingeschrieben sind, haben Sie Zugang zum Skript und zu weiterführenden Materialien.
LiteratureLink
Prerequisites / NoticeOnlinekurs kombiniert mit zwei obligatorischen Präsenzveranstaltungen. Einführungssitzung: 26.9.2016, zweite Präsenzsitzung: 14.11.2016. Die aktive Teilnahme und das erfolgreiches Bearbeiten von Onlineaufgaben werden vorausgesetzt.
Die Zahl der Teilnehmenden ist auf 100 beschränkt. Anmeldung: In der Einführungssitzung am 26.9.2016, zudem schriftliche Einschreibung sowohl unter Link wie auch auf dem Olat-Server.
Verspätete Anmeldungen können nicht berücksichtigt werden.

Weitere Informationen unter Link
853-0725-00LHistory Part One: Europe (The Cradle of Modernity, Britain ca. 1789-1939) Information W3 credits2VH. Fischer-Tiné
AbstractUsing the concrete example of Britain, the "cradle of modernity", this lecture offers a survey and analysis of the crucial historical transformations that engendered "modernity" in Europe from the late 18th to the mid 20th centuries.
ObjectiveAt the end of this lecture course, students can: (a) highlight the most important changes in the "long nineteenth century" in Europe (b) explain their long-term effects; and (c) relate these changes to global developments.
ContentThe thematic foci include: the economic and social consequences of the industrial revolution, the genesis of political ideologies and social movements, shifts in gender roles, colonialism and imperialism, as well as the emergence of consumerism and a "leisure society."
Lecture notesPower Point Slides and sources will be made available at POLYBOX in the course of the semester.
LiteratureMandatory and further reading will be listed on course plan that is made available before the first session.
851-0551-03LPostal Knowledge and the History of Digital Societies
Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-BAUG, D-HEST, D-INFK, D-ITET, D-MAVT
W3 credits2SD. F. Zetti
AbstractIn the second half of the 20th century, postal services have dramatically changed. Communication today is computerbased. The lecture offers problem oriented insights into this sociotechnical process of translation.
ObjectiveStudents become familiar with the mutual interdependence of social and technological change that characterises the history of computing and communication.
ContentDie Palette postalischer Produkte, Dienstleistungen und Personalien ist spannend und vielfältig. (Liebes-)Briefe und Geldsendungen, Boten und Anrufer, Geheimnisse und Telefonbücher, analoge Vermittlungen und digitale Übertragungen - auf der Basis von Forschungsliteratur und Archivquellen werden solche Objekte, Figuren und Dienste auf ihre kultur-, technik- und wirtschaftshistorische Dimensionen hin befragt. Der behandelte Zeitraum umfasst das 19. und 20. Jahrhundert, inhaltlich liegt ein Schwerpunkt auf den Jahren ab 1950. In jenen Jahrzehnten wurden der Verkehr und die Korrespondenzen der Post mit den Anforderungen rechnergestützter Verständigung kompatibel. Die Vorlesung bietet einen problemorientierten Einblick in diesen soziotechnischen Übersetzungsprozess.
851-0101-18L"Bollywood and Beyond" - A Cultural History of Indian Cinema in the 20th CenturyW3 credits2VH. Fischer-Tiné
AbstractThe Indian film industry has been around for 100 years and is one of the richest and miost variegated of the world. The lecture reconstructs the historical development of Indian cinema and uses it as a lens through which cultural, social and political change in the subcontinent can be explored.
ObjectiveThe objectives of this course are three-fold. For one, the participants shall learn to question aesthetic cetainties and received modes of perception of cinematographic art. Secondly they will be acquainted with the huge potential of films as a historical source to grasp processes of social and cultural change. Besides, the reconstruction of the international career of a specific variety of art and entertainment will also raise important questions of cultural globalisation and consumerism. As a side-effect, a sit were, the students will will also be provided with important insights into the chequered history of the Indian subcontinent in during the course of the 20th century.
LiteratureZur Einführung:

DWYER, Rachel, 'Bollywood's India: Hindi Cinema as a Guide to Modern India', Asian Affairs, 41 (3), 2010, pp. 381-98.

VIRDIK, Jyotika, The Cinematic Imagination: Indian Popular Film as Social History, New Brunswick, NJ and London: Rutgers University Press, 2003.
Prerequisites / NoticeA detailed course description and session plan will be available from 15 Sept 2013 onwards at Link
851-0512-05LDevelopment Cooperation from a Biographical Point of ViewW3 credits2UG. Spuhler
AbstractThe Archives of Contemporary History provide 75 video interviews with contemporary witnesses who report on their missions abroad for swiss humanitarian aid and development cooperation. Based on selected interviews the motives of their commitment and the experience in a foreign country are examined.
ObjectiveThe course provides basic knowledge about the beginnings of modern development aid and its increasing professionalism. It aims for a critical and historically informed reflection on the transfer of knowledge and technology between the first and the third world. Furthermore it sharpens the critical awareness of the possibilities and limitations of retrospective accounts of eyewitnesses.
LiteratureGregor Spuhler / Lea Ingber / Sonja Vogelsang: Auslandhilfe als biografische Erfahrung. In: Handlungsfeld Entwicklung. Schweizer Erwartungen und Erfahrungen in der Geschichte der Entwicklungsarbeit (Itinera 35). Hg.: Sara Elmer et al., Basel 2014, S. 253-279.
Thomas Gull / Dominik Schnetzer: Die andere Seite der Welt. Was Schweizerinnen und Schweizer im humanitären Einsatz erlebt haben, Baden 2011.
851-0101-53LCollections in Context: What Do Historians and Scientists Learn from Butterflies, Stones, and Bones?
Particularly suitable for students of D-BIOL, D-BSSE, D-USYS
W3 credits2SB. Schär, M. Greeff
AbstractZurich holds huge scientific collections. They contain objects from around the world, some of them dating back to the 18th century. This interdisciplinary seminar combines perspectives from the history of science and from current scientific disciplines. What do these objects tell us about Zurich's place in the global history of science? What potentials do old collections hold for scientists today?
ObjectiveThe aim of this seminar is threefold: Firstly, students will become familiarised with historiographical approaches to scientific collections. Among them are constructivist approaches that seek to understand scientific knowledge not primarily as a system of objective truths, but rather as an outcome of human 'constructions'. Other approaches deal with the problem of how scientific objects are related to systems of power and oppression, namely in the case of objects collected during the time of european colonialism overseas. Secondly, students will become familiarized with how old collections can yeald new insights for current scientists working, e.g., on questions of ecology. Thirdly, the seminar shall serve as a plattform to discuss ways of dialogue and possible collaboration between these different approaches.

Students will be expected to read theoretical texts and case studies during semester, participate in discussions with external experts (historians, curators, and scientists), and to write a summarizing essay at the end of the term.
851-0535-09LRegional Politics of the Arabian PeninsulaW2 credits2KE. Manea
AbstractThe course explores the complex nature of politics and history of the Arabian Peninsula. It takes a closer look at the political systems of several countries of the Arabian Peninsula, especially Yemen, Saudi Arabia and Oman and Bahrain.
ObjectiveTo highlight how the politics of the Arabian Peninsula is a product of two spheres: politics within states and politics between states.

Introduce the Arabian Peninsula as a political unit, but not a homogeneous one

An overview of the type of political systems prevalent in the region,
religious Denominations, sectarian rivalry, and how this shape its regional relations
ContentThe neighbouring states of the Arabian Peninsula - especially Saudi Arabia, Oman and Yemen - make for strange bedfellows. They are governed by different systems with different results, calling into question how their internal policies affect regional relations and vice versa. Saudi Arabia is a monarchy, a prosperous, religious and restrictive state increasingly facing problems of social/politica unrest. Oman is a small, thriving, stable sultanate, modernised and moderate but tightly controlled; and the republic of Yemen, which has the region's poorest economy, has still not shrugged off the legacy of its turbulent modern history. Each state adheres to a different Islamic sect, moreover, and though their populations are overwhelmingly Arab, differing tribal structures result in widely variant effects on the political process in their respective systems. Each state has also had extensive historical relationships with the Ottoman and British empires, the US and Russia, and these too have coloured regional relations. Recent events like the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, the American-led invasion of Iraq and the Arab uprisings of 2011 have also influenced these states' internal policy decisions, further affecting their dealings with one another and at with the world at large. This course examines each country in detail, from state formation to current affairs and from local to international government.
051-0311-00LHistory of Art and Architecture III Information W3 credits2VL. Stalder
AbstractThe two-semester course offers an introduction to the history and theory of architecture from the industrial revolution up to now. Based on current questions a variety of case studies will be discussed.
ObjectiveThe aim is to give an overview on crucial events, works of art, buildings and theories since the beginning of the 19th century up to today. The course should enhance the comprehension of historical and theoretical issues, and allow the students to localize their own practice within a broader historical context.
ContentThe subject of this lecture course is the history and theory of architecture since the beginning of the 19th century up to now. It examines the architectural answers to the changing technical inventions and social practices. Consequently, the focus will be less on individual architects or buildings than on various themes that determined the architecture of the period.
Lecture notesLink
051-0363-00LHistory of Urban Design I Information W2 credits2GV. Magnago Lampugnani
AbstractThe lecture covers the time from the beginning of urban culture until the mid 19th century. With selected examples it emphasizes on the historical plannings and methods of European cities. Each specific urban development will be presented within a broader context.
ObjectiveThis course analyzes the history of urban architecture primarily in its existing three dimensional form as a complex human artefact. It also explores the inspirations that prompted the creation of this artefact: philosophical and religious concepts, social conditions, property relationships and the mechanisms that exploit the economics of real estate and the influence of building technology. Intellectual, literary or artistic modes of thought will also be assessed with regard to their impact on urban development. Urbanism has its own distinctive approach as a discipline, but it is also clearly responsive to the influence of related disciplines. Study is made of actual cities and urban expansion plans which are in the process of implementation, as well as unrealized projects and visions of the future. These projects sometimes illustrate ways of thinking that are equal to, or clearer than, actual urban situations.
ContentIn the first semester an introduction to the discipline and the methods are given along the thematic issues from the beginning of urban culture until the mid-19th century.

01. Introduction to the discipline and method: The history of urban design as a historical project

02. Athens and Rome in the ancient world: Myth, selfportrayal and speculation

03. From the spirit of equality to the colonial module: Greek and Roman City foundings

04. From the urban ideal to new cities in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance

05. Baroque strategies: The new organisation of Rome under Sixtus V, the production of Versailles under Louis XIV and the invention of St. Petersburg

06. The city between Absolutism and Enlightment: baroque defence-designs, the European colonization of the American continent and the reconstruction of Lisbon

07. Ideology and speculation after the Glorious Revolution: landscapegardens and urban figurations in England from 1650-1850

08. Between modernization, Grandeur and repression: Embellishment in Paris from 1750-1830

09. The construction of the bourgeois city: Georges-Eugène Haussmann transforms Paris into the capital of the 19th century

10. Architectural insertion and plan for the expansion of the city: From the Berlin of Karl Friedrich Schinkel to James Hobrecht

11. Neoabsolute power, bourgeois self-confidence and Marxian Idealism: The Viennese Ringstrasse and Ildefonso Cerdas Ensanche for Barcelona
Lecture notesThe lectures are accompagnied by a script (two semesters of the bachelor studies), that can be purchased at the chair for the history of urban design (HIL D 75.2) at the price of CHF 30,-. The script serves as an auxiliary means to the attended lecture compiling the most important illustrations showed and the names and dates of the buildings and its builders along with a short introductory note.
LiteratureFurther recommended literature to consult is listet within the script.
Prerequisites / NoticeHistory of Urban Design from antiquity to the 19th century
701-0791-00LEnvironmental History - Introduction and Overview Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 100.
W2 credits2VD. Speich Chassé
AbstractOur society faces a serious ecological crisis. Of what historical dimension is this crisis? How have human societies already in earlier times changed their environment, and, consequently, perhaps also ours? What were the main ecological challenges for societies and how did they change over time? And how did societies adapt to changing environmental conditions?
ObjectiveIntroduction into environmental history; survey of long-term development of human-nature-interrelations; discussion of selected problems. Improved ability to assess current problems from a historical perspective and to critically interrogate one's own standpoint.
Lecture notesCourse material is provided on OLAT.
LiteratureMcNeill, John R. 2000. Something new under the sun: An environmental history of the twentieth-century world, New York: Norton.

Uekötter, Frank (Ed.) 2010. The turning points of environmental history, Pittsburgh: University of Pittsburgh Press.

Winiwarter, Verena und Martin Knoll 2007. Umweltgeschichte: Eine Einführung, Köln: Böhlau.
Prerequisites / NoticeStudents are asked to write an exam during the second last session (11.12.2015).
063-0366-00LThe Architecture of the City from Modernity to Today Information W2 credits2VV. Magnago Lampugnani
AbstractThe lecture covers the time of the 20th century and describes with theories, projects and implemented plannings the history of the modern city. The lectures emphasizes on the historical plannings and methods and presents each specific urban development within a broader context.
ObjectiveThis course analyzes the history of urban architecture primarily in its existing three dimensional form as a complex human artefact. It also explores the inspirations that prompted the creation of this artefact: philosophical and religious concepts, social conditions, property relationships and the mechanisms that exploit the economics of real estate and the influence of building technology. Intellectual, literary or artistic modes of thought will also be assessed with regard to their impact on urban development. Urbanism has its own distinctive approach as a discipline, but it is also clearly responsive to the influence of related disciplines. Study is made of actual cities and urban expansion plans which are in the process of implementation, as well as unrealized projects and visions of the future. These projects sometimes illustrate ways of thinking that are equal to, or clearer than, actual urban situations.
ContentThe lecture which will be hold only in one semester includes the developments of the 20th century

1. Le Corbusier: theories, visions and clearcuts in the name oft he autorité

2. The United States in the Jazz Age: Between Metropolis of Tomorrow and Broadacre City

3. Italy in the Fascist Era: Monumental ensembles and new town between assiduousness of modernization and obsession of representation

4. Urban design under totalitarian regimes: The architects of the "Tausendjährige Reich" and the "engineers of luck" of the Soviet Union of Stalin

5. Coming to terms with the past and the Cold War: Reconstruction in the two German states

6. The myth of the human scale: the 1950s in Spain, Great Britain, Scandinavia and Italy

7. Postwar Experiments: Rationalistic classicism in France

8. Two new towns in the 20th century: Chandigarh and Brasilia

9. Fictions and visions: The international utopia of the city

10. The second conquest of the North American territorium: The automobile and the city in the USA

11. Analysis, analogy and renewal: The adventure of the typological city
Lecture notesTo each lecture an overview is listet within a script, that can be purchased at the chair for the history of urban design (HIL D 75.2) at the price of CHF 25,-. The script serves as an auxiliary means to the attended lecture compiling the most important illustrations showed and the names and dates of the buildings and its builders along with a short introductory note.
Aside this script the chair offers the ‚Quellentextbände' (sourcetexts) which help to extend the knowledge of theoretical discourses in the field of urban design. For the master program the institute offers one volume of texts at the price of CHF 5,-. The script is in German, the ‚Quellentextbände’ are reprinted in their original languages.
LiteratureFurther recommended literature to consult is listet within the script.
Literature
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0300-85LThe Knowledge of Literature. An IntroductionW3 credits2VA. Kilcher
AbstractThis lecture provides a general introduction to literary theory and presents the important theories dealing with knowledge and its role in and as literature.
ObjectiveStudents are introduced to the various approaches and methods of literature studies and gain an overview of literary theory.
ContentThis lecture has two aims: Firstly, it serves as a general introduction into the fiel of literary theory (thereby looking into "knowledge about literature"). Secondly, there will be a special emphasis on recent theoretical approaches that take seriously literature and knowledge as one of its components (thus investigating the "knowledge of literature"). Even though traditional criticism disagrees, a number of recent approaches, based on literature and culture studies, hold that literature is not to be conceived of as standing in opposition to the world and the classificatory system of the academic disciplines, particularly the sciences (e.g. Foucauldian discourse analysis and New Historicism). Instead, these approaches understand literature in terms of its epistemological forms and functions. Thus, the main thesis is that literature actively participates in the constitution and formation of knowledge. Literature itself generates models of knowledge, sometimes with critical or even utopian intentions. Moreover, it draws attention to the fundamental role of order and representation (systematization, narrative rendering, linguistic and pictorial representation) in both humanities and sciences.
851-0301-04LPhotography and Literature. Exchanging Practices and PoeticsW3 credits2GF. Broggi-Wüthrich
AbstractThe course discusses writers from Henry James to Margaret Atwood whose interest for photography led them to elaborate new intriguing modes of representation. The aim is to identify how literature, photography and art meet to promote a photographic aesthetics while approaching the theories of Susan Sontag, Roland Barthes and Bourdieu as well as postmodern or posthuman criticism.
ObjectiveStudents know a wide variety of literary text (and their authors) that are related in content or form to the practice of photography. Students know how to relate texts to key critical theories as well as to the historical and social context.
Prerequisites / NoticeAll interested students are most welcome. The course is not intended as a language course but a good knowledge of English is a necessary requirement in order to participate to class discussions and to do the reading.
851-0301-05LBeginnings Information Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 25
W3 credits2SC. Jany
Abstract"All beginnings are difficult," goes the saying, "but without them there wouldn't be an end." However, what makes beginnings so difficult? What kind of action is that? Which knowledge does it presuppose? And what would a beginning say about the end? We will pursue these questions by reading sacred, philosophical, literary, and scientific texts that, each in its own way, make a beginning.
Objective- thorough reading and critical analysis of the texts
- reflection upon the conditions and practice of beginnings in terms of their epistemology and rhetorical strategy (i.e. as an intellectual and literary operation)
- consider the cultural and historical function of fictions that tell of origins, such as cosmological myths, foundationalist philosophy, or poetic incantations
LiteratureMyths of Creation and First Origins (Genesis und Gospel of St. John, Theogony, Upanishads), philosophy (Fichte, Hegel), literature and poetry (Wieland, Hölderlin, Novalis, Wordsworth, Melville, Richard Wagner, Beckett). For an introduction, see Wolfgang Iser, Emergenz: Nachgelassene und verstreut publizierte Essays (Konstanz 2013).
Prerequisites / Noticereadings partly in English
851-0306-05LLiterature and Technology - Simulations, Prototypes, Machines
Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET, D-MAVT, D-MATL
W3 credits2SE. Edelmann-Ohler
AbstractLiterature about technology transposes models, products and procedures of scientific progress into the logic of poetry. This literature converts not only technology into fiction, but it also creates new cultural and social contextualisations, which reveal alternative readings of configurations of knowledge.
ObjectiveStudents are familiar with different relations between literature and technology. They can verbalise and analyse central contentions.
ContentIm Seminar lesen wir unter anderem Texte von E.T.A. Hofmann, Franz Kafka, Georg Kaiser und Max Frisch.
851-0309-15LThomas Mann's Last Novel: "Bekenntnisse des Hochstaplers Felix Krull" Restricted registration - show details
Does not take place this semester.
Number of participants limited to 20
W3 credits2Snot available
Abstract"Bekenntnisse des Hochstaplers Felix Krull" was published in 1954, one year before Thomas Mann's death. This humorous autobiography of a confidence man was and is often considered a somewhat lightweight work, intellectually inferior to Mann's more earnest and more celebrated output. By contrast, this seminar will seek to elucidate the novel's manifold discursive and knowledge-based contexts.
Objective- Students read and discuss the "Bekenntnisse"
- Students familiarize themselves with the critical technique of 'close reading'
- The seminar establishes current and well-founded research perspectives on Mann's novel, preferably from the context of the history of knowledge and the history of idea. Approaches from the fields of gender studies, discourse analysis and other areas will also be considered
851-0300-79LTheories of JokeW3 credits2SA. Kilcher
AbstractFrom Plato, Aristotle and Cicero, philosophers have tried to find the core principle of wit (or the joke, as both meanings are contained in the German term "Witz"). Even during the 20th century, the philosophy of life and psychoanalysis struggle with it. The seminar provides an overview of this history.
ObjectiveThis seminar deals with the meaning and history of "Witz" (wit, joke) as a form of knowledge. It places "Witz" as a switch or transitional figure within the development of modern theories of knowledge in particular.
ContentContrary to intuitive expectations, the German term "Witz" is not only an instance of the comical, but also a form of knowledge that plays on similarity and difference by juxtaposing the disparate. In this vein, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries, "Witz" becomes a central attribute of poetic and rhetorical types of expression (wit). Only during the 19th century "Witz" comes to denote a characteristic genre of the comical (joke). From now on "Witz" is theoretically associated with the comical and laughter. Around 1900 there are approaches based on the philosophy of life, sociology and psychology, elaborated by Bergson, Bakhtin and Freud, among others.
851-0365-01LIntroduction to English Literature: Science and Fiction Part IW2 credits2SA. Brand-Kilcher
Abstract"Plot is to the novelist what experiment is to the scientist." (Lionel Trilling) We will read Emile Zola's essay "The Experimental Novel" and other texts to look on the one hand at the scientific aspect to fiction and fiction writing and on the other hand at the narrative and fictional aspects to science.
ObjectiveCompare and find out about differences and similarities between natural sciences and fiction/ fiction writing. Maybe become aware that "to conclude that what happens in the laboratory is what happens in the universe requires a leap of the imagination." (Trilling)
ContentWe will look at a number of essays and texts on that subject. We will also read Zadie Smith's highly entertaining novel "White Teeth" which has a very elaborate not to say artificial plot. One line of the story is about the geneticist Marcus Chalfen and the "Future Mouse" he designed.
LiteratureRecommended Reading: Zadie Smith: White Teeth; Emile Zola: The Experimental Novel
851-0129-00LWriting for Others - Science and Public Restricted registration - show details W2 credits2VU. J. Wenzel
AbstractLearning to write texts, that can present topics from the sciences to an interested public (in newspapers, non-specialist journals but also in papers for non-specialists in an academic context); to gain insights into the cultural, historical and philosophical contexts of science and the public.
ObjectiveLearning to write texts, that can present topics from the sciences to an interested public (in newspapers, non-specialist journals but also in papers for non-specialists in an academic context); to gain insights into the cultural, historical and philosophical contexts of science and the public.
ContentPractical exercises in writing articles for the feature pages of newspapers will be combined with the theoretical work on topics relevant for the historical, sociological and philosophical aspects of writing for others.
Prerequisites / NoticeVoraussetzungen: Die Bereitschaft, sich auf ein Projekt mit experimentellem Charakter einzulassen. GUTE BEHERRSCHUNG DER DEUTSCHEN SPRACHE.

Die Teilnehmerzahl ist begrenzt. SCHRIFTLICHE ANMELDUNG erforderlich (bis 31. August): Link
851-0315-01LWriting: Precision of Language as a Field of Research for Literature Restricted registration - show details W1 credit1GF. Kretzen
AbstractWhen we write a literary text we enter into a set-up for experiments and explore the possibilities ensuing from the specific structure and consistency of such a text. Literary writing allows us to go over to another kind of knowledge. Thus, the question: what is it that I want to write about? is replaced by: what do I write?
ObjectiveIn this course we shall analyze and apply conditions and criteria for literary writing on the basis of our own texts.
The course is intended for persons who are interested in literary approaches to exactitude.
Any attempt to write literature is confronted with an unforeseeable linguistic dynamism whose feasibility is determined by laws and rules quite different from those of science and technology. For the science-oriented writer, experiencing the self-evidence produced by literary approaches in his or her own writing project opens up a field of language with new content and new methods.
ContentIn the natural sciences as well as in engineering we set up experiments, analyze equation systems, and formulate theories. In order to complement these practices, the course «Writing» shall pursue precision in literary writing, its choice of word and its self-evidence.

When we write a literary text we also enter into a set-up for experiments and explore the possibilities ensuing from the specific structure and overall consistency of such a text. This form of writing takes us from the question: what is it that I want to write about? to the question: what do I write?
How do such literary approaches differ from the ways in which the natural sciences use language?
In this course we shall analyze and apply conditions and criteria for literary writing on the basis of our own texts.
The course is intended for persons who are interested in literary approaches to exactitude.
Any attempt to write literature is confronted with an unforeseeable linguistic dynamism whose feasibility is determined by laws and rules quite different from those of science and technology. For the science-oriented writer, experiencing the self-evidence produced by literary approaches in his or her own writing project opens up a field of language with new content and new methods.
Prerequisites / NoticeThose wishing to participate are required to send in between two and three pages text of their own writing that will be discussed in class. The next step will be writing a text on a preset topic as a basis for discussing the various realizations of a given task.
851-0331-05LThe Art of ConversationW3 credits2VC. Thomas
AbstractThis course will offer the occasion to reflect upon the art of conversation: its codes, its pleasures of improvisation, its worldly aspects and its importance in everyday life.
ObjectiveThis will permit us to consider different figures of the writer and salon hostess, such as Mme de Lafayette, Mme du Deffand, Julie de Lespinasse, and Mme de Staël.
851-0331-06LThe Secretaries of the Baroque Age and the "Honest Dissimulation"W3 credits2VS. Nigro
AbstractTorquato Accetto, secretary and poet, published the treatise "Della simulazione onesta" in 1641. It was a thin manual to survive political turmoils and moral instability of the time; it was also a guide to "secret" writing in a time of censorship. The course follows the reception of the treatise up to the 20th century and focuses on how it got shaped to meet various historical and political ideas.
ObjectiveThe students know the author and his coeval context; the students can relate the writing modalities of the treatise to the socio-cultural context of various historical times; the students know how to identify and interpret the metaphorical potential of the texts, as well as its literary power.
Economics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0252-04LBehavioral Studies Colloquium Information W2 credits2KE. Stern, H.‑D. Daniel, D. Helbing, C. Hölscher, B. Rütsche, R. Schubert, C. Stadtfeld
AbstractThis colloquium offers an opportunity for students to discuss their ongoing research and scientific ideas in the behavioral sciences, both at the micro- and macro-levels of cognitive, behavioral and social science. It also offers an opportunity for students from other disciplines to discuss their research ideas in relation to behavioral science. The colloquium also features invited research talks.
ObjectiveStudents know and can apply autonomously up-to-date investigation methods and techniques in the behavioral sciences. They achieve the ability to develop their own ideas in the field and to communicate their ideas in oral presentations and in written papers. The credits will be obtained by a written report of approximately 10 pages.
ContentThis colloquium offers an opportunity for students to discuss their ongoing research and scientific ideas in the behavioral sciences, both at the micro- and macro-levels of cognitive, behavioral and social science. It also offers an opportunity for students from other disciplines to discuss their ideas in so far as they have some relation to behavioral science. The possible research areas are wide and may include theoretical as well as empirical approaches in Social Psychology and Research on Higher Education, Sociology, Modeling and Simulation in Sociology, Decision Theory and Behavioral Game Theory, Economics, Research on Learning and Instruction, Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Science. Ideally the students (from Bachelor, Master, Ph.D. and Post-Doc programs) have started to start work on their thesis or on any other term paper.
Course credit can be obtained either based on a talk in the colloquium plus a written essay, or by writing an essay about a topic related to one of the other talks in the course. Students interested in giving a talk should contact the course organizers (Rütsche, Stern) before the first session of the semester. Priority will be given to advanced / doctoral students for oral presentations. The course credits will be obtained by a written report of approximately 10 pages. The colloquium also serves as a venue for invited talks by researchers from other universities and institutions related to behavioral and social sciences.
851-0626-01LInternational Aid and Development
Does not take place this semester.
Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of economics
W2 credits2VI. Günther
AbstractThe course gives economic and empirical foundations for a sound understanding of the instruments, prospects and limitations of international development aid.
ObjectiveStudents have a theoretically and empirically sound understanding of the prospects and limitations of international development aid. Students are able to critically discuss the various aid instruments of bi-and multilateral donors and NGOs.
ContentIntroduction to the Determinants of Underdevelopment; History of Aid; Aid and Development: Theories and Empirics; Political Economy of Aid; Experience and Impact of Aid; New Instruments of Aid: e.g. Micro-Finance, Budget-Support; Fair-Trade.
LiteratureArticles and book abstracts will be uploaded to a course website.
851-0609-06LGoverning the Energy Transition Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 30.

Primarily suited for Master and PhD level
W2 credits2VT. Schmidt
AbstractThis course addresses the role of policy and its underlying politics in the transformation of the energy sector. It covers historical, socio-economic, and political perspectives and applies various theoretical concepts to specific aspects of governing the energy transition.
Objective- To gain an overview of the history of the transition of large technical systems
- To recognize current challenges in the energy system to understand the theoretical frameworks and concepts for studying transitions
- To demonstrate knowledge on the role of policy and politics in energy transitions
ContentClimate change, access to energy and other societal challenges are directly linked to the way we use and create energy. Both the recent United Nations Paris climate change agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals make a fast and extensive transition of the energy system necessary.
This course introduces the social and environmental challenges involved in the energy sector and discusses the implications of these challenges for the rate and direction of technical change in the energy sector. It compares the current situation with historical socio-technical transitions and derives the consequences for policy-making. It then introduces theoretical frameworks and concepts for studying innovation and transitions. It then focuses on the role of policy and policy change in governing the energy transition, considering the role of political actors, institutions and policy feedback.
The course has a highly interactive (seminar-like) character. Students are expected to actively engage in the weekly discussions and to give a presentation (15-20 minutes) on one of the weekly topics during that particular session. The presentation (30%) and participation in the discussions (20%) will form one part of the final grade, the remaining 50% of the final grade will be formed by a final exam.
Lecture notesSlides and reading material will be made available via moodle.ethz.ch (only for registered students).
LiteratureA reading list will be provided via moodle.ethz.ch at the beginning of the semester.
Prerequisites / NoticeThis course is particularly suited for students of the following programmes: MA Comparative International Studies; MSc Energy Science & Technology; MSc Environmental Sciences; MSc Management, Technology & Economics; MSc Science, Technology & Policy; ETH & UZH PhD programmes.
151-0757-00LEnvironmental ManagementW2 credits2GR. Züst
AbstractAn environmental management system has the objective to continuously improve the environmental performance of the activities, products and services of a company. The company has to introduce different management procedures. The goal of this lecture is to provide basics and specific procedure to implement the environmental dimension in the planning and decision making processes of an organisation.
ObjectiveOverview on environmental management and environmental management systems, general methods and principles.
ContentIntroduction to environmental mangement / environmental
management systems, energy and material flows; economical and
ecological problems in industry; charakterisation of an
enterprise (incl. management handbook); structur and contents of an
environmental management system; overview on the ISO 14001 ff. series; methodes for environmental evaluation and assessment; integrated management systems; planning methodology and life-cycle-design
design; planning exampl
Lecture notesInformation about environmental management and environmental
management systems will be provided by a CD or mail.
Literaturea list with literatures and links will be provided
Prerequisites / NoticeDelivery of a case study, worked out in groups. Language: Teaching in English on request.
860-0006-00LApplied Statistics and Policy Evaluation Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 20.

Science, Technology, and Policy MSc and MAS in Development and Cooperation have priority.
W3 credits3GI. Günther, K. Harttgen
AbstractThis course introduces students to key statistical methods for analyzing social science data with a special emphasis on causal inference and policy evaluation. Students learn to choose appropriate analysis strategies for particular research questions and to perform statistical analyses with the statistical Software Stata.
ObjectiveStudents
- have a sound understanding of linear and logit regression
- know strategies to test causal hypotheses using regression analysis and/or experimental methods
- are able to formulate and implement a regression model for a particular policy question and a particular type of data
- are able to critically interpret results of applied statistics, in particular, regarding causal inference
- are able to critically read and assess published studies on policy evaluation
- are able to use the statistical software STATA for data Analysis
ContentThe topics covered in the first part of the course are a revision of basic statistics and linear and logit regression analysis. The second part of the course focuses on causal inference and introduces methods such as panel data analysis, difference-in-difference methods, instrumental variable estimation, and randomized controlled trials mostly used for policy evaluation. The course shows how the various methods differ in terms of the required identifying assumptions to infer causality as well as the data needs.
Students will apply the methods from the lectures by solving weekly assignments using statistical software and data sets provided by the instructors. These data sets will cover topics at the interface of policy, technology and society. Solving the assignments contributes to the final grade with a weight of 30%. Students are assisted in solving the assignments during the exercises session.
363-1027-00LIntroduction to Health Economics and PolicyW3 credits2VW. Mimra
AbstractHealth expenditures constitute about 10% of GDP in OECD countries. Extensive government intervention is a typical feature in health markets. Risk factors to health have been changing with growing importance of lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity and lack of physical activity. This course gives an introduction to the economic concepts and empirical findings in health economics.
ObjectiveIntroduce students without prior economics background to the main concepts of health economics and policy to enhance students understanding of how health care institutions and markets function.
ContentThe course gives an introduction to the economic concepts and empirical findings in health economics to enhance students understanding of how health care institutions and markets function. First, the three important decisions made by individuals will be analyzed: What determines the health behaviors, like the intensity of preventive measures like sport, that an individual undertakes? What types and amount of personal health care services does an individual demand? How much health insurance coverage will be purchased?
In a second part, the major participants on the supply side of health care markets - physicians, hospitals, nurses and pharmaceutical manufacturers - will be discussed. E.g., how important are financial incentives in the choice of medicine as a career, specialty choice and practice location? What does it mean and imply that a physician is an agent for a patient? How do pharmaceutical firms decide on investments in new products and how can public policy encourage pharmaceutical innovation?
The choices made by societies about how health care services are financed and about the types of organizations that supply health care will be addressed in a third part. One important choice is whether a country will rely on public financing of personal health care services or encourage private health insurance markets. How could and should a public health insurance system be designed? What health care services should be included or excluded from a public system? Another important choice is whether a society relies on government provision of health care services, private provision by not-for-profit or for-profit organizations or some combination. The advantages and disadvantages of the alternatives will be discussed to provide a framework for analyzing specific types of health care systems.
LiteratureJay Bhattacharya, Timothy Hyde, Peter Tu, "Health Economics", Palgrave Macmillan.
Frank A. Sloan and Chee-Ruey Hsieh, "Health Economics", MIT Press.
363-0387-00LCorporate SustainabilityW3 credits2GV. Hoffmann
AbstractThe lectures addresses the assessment of corporate sustainability and its links to strategy, technology, and finance. Students learn why sustainability matters for managers and how businesses can act towards it. E-modules allow students to train critical thinking skills. In the 2nd half of the semester, sustainability challenges on water, energy, mobility, and food are explored in group projects.
ObjectiveUnderstand the limits and the potential of corporate sustainability for sustainable development

Develop critical thinking skills (argumentation, communication, evaluative judgment) that are useful in the context of corporate sustainability using an innovative writing and peer review method.

Be able to recognize and realize opportunities for corporate sustainability in a business environment
ContentOverview of the key concepts of corporate sustainability and topics related to Water, Energy, Mobility, and Food

Business implications of sustainable development, in particular for the assessment of sustainability performance, strategic change towards sustainability, technological innovations and sustainability, and finance and corporate sustainability.
Critical thinking skills for corporate sustainability.
In-depth case studies of corporate sustainability challenges in the track phase: How to deal with environmental pressure groups? How to use the strengths of business to solve pressing sustainability problems? How to catalyze technological innovations for sustainability? How to invest money in a sustainable way?
Lecture notesPresentation slides will be made available on moodle prior to lectures.
LiteratureLiterature recommendations will be distributed during the lecture
363-0565-00LPrinciples of MacroeconomicsW3 credits2VJ.‑E. Sturm
AbstractThis course examines the behaviour of macroeconomic variables, such as gross domestic product, unemployment and inflation rates. It tries to answer questions like: How can we explain fluctuations of national economic activity? What can economic policy do against unemployment and inflation. What significance do international economic relations have for Switzerland?
ObjectiveThis lecture will introduce the fundamentals of macroeconomic theory and explain their relevance to every-day economic problems.
ContentThis course helps you understand the world in which you live. There are many questions about the macroeconomy that might spark your curiosity. Why are living standards so meagre in many African countries? Why do some countries have high rates of inflation while others have stable prices? Why have some European countries adopted a common currency? These are just a few of the questions that this course will help you answer.
Furthermore, this course will give you a better understanding of the potential and limits of economic policy. As a voter, you help choose the policies that guide the allocation of society's resources. When deciding which policies to support, you may find yourself asking various questions about economics. What are the burdens associated with alternative forms of taxation? What are the effects of free trade with other countries? What is the best way to protect the environment? How does the government budget deficit affect the economy? These and similar questions are always on the minds of policy makers.
Lecture notesThe course webpage (to be found at Link) contains announcements, course information and lecture slides.
LiteratureThe set-up of the course will closely follow the book of
N. Gregory Mankiw and Mark P. Taylor (2014), Economics, Cengage Learning, Third Edition.

We advise you to also buy access to Aplia. This internet platform will support you in learning for this course. To save money, you should buy the book together with Aplia. This is sold as a bundle (ISBN: 9781473715998).

Besides this textbook, the slides and lecture notes will cover the content of the lecture and the exam questions.
363-0561-00LFinancial Market RisksW3 credits2GD. Sornette
AbstractI aim to introduce students to the concepts and tools of modern finance and to make them understand the limits of these tools, and the many problems met by the theory in practice. I will put this course in the context of the on-going financial crises in the US, Europe, Japan and China, which provide fantastic opportunities to make the students question the status quo and develop novel solutions.
ObjectiveThe course explains the key concepts and mechanisms of financial economics, their depth and then stresses how and why the theories and models fail and how this is impacting investment strategies and even a global view of citizenship, given the present developing crises in the US since 2007 and in Europe since 2010.

-Development of the concepts and tools to understand these risks and master them.

-Working knowledge of the main concepts and tools in finance (Portfolio theory, asset pricing, options, real options, bonds, interest rates, inflation, exchange rates)

-Strong emphasis on challenging assumptions and developing a systemic understanding of financial markets and their many dimensional risks
Content1- The Financial Crises: what is really happening? Historical perspective and what can be expected in the next decade(s). Bubbles and crashes. The illusion of he perpetual money machine.

2- Risks in financial markets
-What is risk?
-Measuring risks of financial assets
-Introduction to three different concepts of probability
-History of financial markets, diversification, market risks

3- Introduction to financial risks and its management.
-Relationship between risk and return
-portfolio theory: the concept of diversification and optimal allocation
-How to price assets: the Capital Asset Pricing Model
-How to price assets: the Arbitrage Pricing Theory, the factor models and beyond

4- Financial markets: role and efficiency
-What is an efficient market?
-Financial markets as valuation engines: exogeneity versus endogeneity (reflexivity)
-Deviations from efficiency, puzzles and anomalies in the financial markets
-Financial bubbles, crashes, systemic instabilities

5- An introduction to Options and derivatives
-Calls, Puts and Shares and other derivatives
-Financial alchemy with options (options are building blocs of any possible cash flow)
-Determination of option value; concept of risk hedging

6-Valuation and using options
-a first simple option valuation modle
-the Binomial method for valuing options
-the Black-scholes model and formula
-practical examples and implementation
-Realized prices deviate from these theories: volatility smile and real option trading
-How to imperfectly hedge with real markets?

7- Real options
-The value of follow-on investment opportunities
-The timing option
-The abandonment option
-Flexible production
-conceptual aspects and extensions

8- Government bonds and their valuation
-Relationship between bonds and interest rates
-Real and nominal rates of interest
-Term structure and Yields to maturity
-Explaining the term structure
-Different models of the term structure

9- Managing international risks
-The foreign exchange market
-Relations between exchanges rates and interest rates, inflation,
and other economic variables
-Hedging currency risks
-Currency speculation
-Exchange risk and international investment decisions
Lecture notesLecture slides will be available on the site of the lecture
LiteratureCorporate finance
Brealey / Myers / Allen
Eight edition
McGraw-Hill International Edition (2006)

+ additional paper reading provided during the lectures
Prerequisites / Noticenone
363-1050-00LConference of Disarmament: Simulation of Negotiations Restricted registration - show details
Does not take place this semester.
W3 credits2SM. Ambühl
AbstractThe Global Studies Institute (University of Geneva) is organizing a simulation seminar on nuclear disarmament in collaboration with the Chair of Negotiation and Conflict Management (ETH), experts from the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research and the Geneva Center for Security Policy.
ObjectiveThe simulation is conducted in collaboration with experts and students during a two days seminar at the University of Geneva.

Students will have the possibility to participate in simulated diplomatic negotiations and to analyse and assess the negotiation logic behind the situations. They should gain insight in the basic information on disarmament issues and on the functioning of the Conference on Disarmament as well as on negotiation techniques in general.
ContentThe simulation project is intended for Master's or Doctoral students of the Global Studies Institute (GSI) of the University of Geneva, of the ETH and for interested students of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP). The simulation will be in French and English and is conducted by Prof. Calmy-Rey, former President of Switzerland.

In the lectures, students will be provided with basic information on disarmament issues and on the functioning of the Conference on Disarmament as well as on negotiation techniques in general. Students will take the role of negotiators in the simulation (including the heads of the delegations), of keeper of the minutes or of observers and analysts.
Students will co-develop their mandates for the negotiation and be assisted by experts that are specialized in international negotiations as well as in the topic of disarmament. The negotiation tables will be chaired by former diplomats. Representatives of diplomatic missions in Geneva will play the role of the "Capitals" to which the heads of delegations will have to give account of the ongoing negotiations.

More details on the program, timetable, reading lists and performance assessment will be published here:
Link

The simulation will take place on the 26 and 27 November 2015 at the University of Geneva.

Languages: English and French

Dates/Time/Location (GE = University of Geneva)

22 Sept. | ETH HG D 22 | 10:15-12:00 | Introduction
29 Sept. | GE Uni Mail Salle 1170 | 10:15-12:00 | Introduction to Negotiation Techniques (Dr. Vitalijs Butenko and Dr. Sibylle Zürcher, ETH)
6 Oct. | ETH HG D 16.2 | 10:15-12:00 | Distribution of the roles, composition of the negotiation tables, preparation of mandates for the HA (humanitarian approach)
13 Oct. | ETH HG D 22 | 10:15-12:00 | Preparation of the mandates for the FMCT (Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty)
20 Oct. | GE Uni Mail Salle 1170 | 10:15-12:00 | No session; Students deepen and summarize their mandates on one page (A4)
27 Oct. | GE Uni Mail Salle 1170 | 10:15-12:00 | Discussion of the Mandates I (FMCT)
10 Nov. | GE Uni Mail Salle 1170 | 10:15-12:00 | Discussion of the Mandates II (HA)
17 Nov. | GE Uni Mail Salle 1170 | 10:15-12:00 | Preparation Meeting
26 & 27 Nov. | GE Salles 407 et 408 | 10:00-18:00 | Simulation at Uni Dufour
1 Dec. | GE Uni Mail Salle 1170 | 10:15-12:00 | Discussion of the results

Note:
The participation in the simulation on 26. and 27. November in Geneva is necessary.
The two hours lectures on the 22. September, 6. and 13. October have to be attended in Zürich via conference call (ETH HG D 16.2). The other lectures during the semester can be attended via Skype.
To get the 3 ECTS, students have to participate at the 2 days simulation In Geneva, attend the 3 mandatory lecture parts via conference call an Zürich and write a report of 5 pages at the end of the course.

(Technical note for registration: At this stage all registered students are on the waiting list)
351-0555-00LOpen- and User Innovation Information W3 credits2GS. Häfliger, S. Spaeth
AbstractThe course introduces the students to the long-standing tradition of actively involving users of technology and other knowledge-intensive products in the development and production process, and through own cases they develop an entrepreneurial understanding of product development under distributed, user-centered, or open innovation strategies.
ObjectiveThe course includes both lectures and exercises alternately. The goal is to understand the opportunity of user innovation for management and develop strategies to harness the value of user-developed ideas and contributions for firms and other organizations.

The students actively participate in discussions during the lectures and contribute presentations of case studies during the exercises. The combination should allow to compare theory with practical cases from various industries.

The course presents and builds upon recent research and challenges the students to devise innovation strategies that take into account the availability of user expertise, free and public knowledge, and the interaction with communities that span beyond one organization.

Grading is based on the final exam, the class presentations (including the slides) as well as class participation.
ContentThis course on user innovation extends courses on knowledge management and innovation as well as marketing. The students are introduced to the long-standing tradition of actively involving users of technology and other knowledge-intensive products in the development and production process, and through own cases they develop an entrepreneurial understanding of product development under distributed, user-centered, or open innovation strategies. Theoretical underpinnings taught in the course include models of innovation, the structuration of technology, and an introduction to entrepreneurship.
Lecture notesThe slides of the lectures are made available and updated continuously through the SMI website:
LiteratureRelevant literature for the exam includes the slides and the reading assignments. The corresponding papers are either available from the author online or distributed during class.

Reading assignments: please consult the SMI website:
351-0778-00LDiscovering Management
Entry level course in management for BSc, MSc and PHD students at all levels not belonging to D-MTEC. This course can be complemented with Discovering Management (Excercises) 351-0778-01.
W3 credits3GB. Clarysse, M. Ambühl, S. Brusoni, E. Fleisch, G. Grote, V. Hoffmann, P. Schönsleben, G. von Krogh, F. von Wangenheim
AbstractDiscovering Management offers an introduction to the field of business management and entrepreneurship for engineers and natural scientists. The module provides an overview of the principles of management, teaches knowledge about management that is highly complementary to the students' technical knowledge, and provides a basis for advancing the knowledge of the various subjects offered at D-MTEC.
ObjectiveDiscovering Management combines in an innovate format a set of lectures and an advanced business game. The learning model for Discovering Management involves 'learning by doing'. The objective is to introduce the students to the relevant topics of the management literature and give them a good introduction in entrepreneurship topics too. The course is a series of lectures on the topics of strategy, innovation, corporate finance, leadership, design thinking and corporate social responsibility. While the 14 different lectures provide the theoretical and conceptual foundations, the experiential learning outcomes result from the interactive business game. The purpose of the business game is to analyse the innovative needs of a large multinational company and develop a business case for the company to grow. This business case is as relevant to someone exploring innovation within an organisation as it is if you are planning to start your own business. By discovering the key aspects of entrepreneurial management, the purpose of the course is to advance students' understanding of factors driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and company success.
ContentDiscovering Management aims to broaden the students' understanding of the principles of business management, emphasizing the interdependence of various topics in the development and management of a firm. The lectures introduce students not only to topics relevant for managing large corporations, but also touch upon the different aspects of starting up your own venture. The lectures will be presented by the respective area specialists at D-MTEC.
The course broadens the view and understanding of technology by linking it with its commercial applications and with society. The lectures are designed to introduce students to topics related to strategy, corporate innovation, leadership, corporate and entrepreneurial finance, value chain analysis, corporate social responsibility, and business model innovation. Practical examples from industry experts will stimulate the students to critically assess these issues. Creative skills will be trained by the business game exercise, a participant-centered learning activity, which provides students with the opportunity to place themselves in the role of Chief Innovation Officer of a large multinational company. As they learn more about the specific case and identify the challenge they are faced with, the students will have to develop an innovative business case for this multinational corporation. Doing so, this exercise will provide an insight into the context of managerial problem-solving and corporate innovation, and enhance the students' appreciation for the complex tasks companies and managers deal with. The business game presents a realistic model of a company and provides a valuable learning platform to integrate the increasingly important development of the skills and competences required to identify entrepreneurial opportunities, analyse the future business environment and successfully respond to it by taking systematic decisions, e.g. critical assessment of technological possibilities.
Prerequisites / NoticeDiscovering Management is designed to suit the needs and expectations of Bachelor students at all levels as well as Master and PhD students not belonging to D-MTEC. By providing an overview of Business Management, this course is an ideal enrichment of the standard curriculum at ETH Zurich.
No prior knowledge of business or economics is required to successfully complete this course.
701-0747-00LEnvironmental Policy of Switzerland IW3 credits2VE. Lieberherr
AbstractThis course presents the basics of policy analysis and the specific characteristics of Swiss environmental policy. Policy instruments, actors and processes are addressed both theoretically as well as by means of current Swiss environmental policy examples.
ObjectiveBeyond acquiring basic knowledge about policy analysis, this course teaches students how to analytically address current and concrete questions of environmental policy. Through exercises the students learn about political science concepts and frameworks as well as real-life political decision-making processes. The well-grounded examination of complex political conflict situations is an important precondition for the entry into the (environmental policy) workforce or a future research career.
ContentThe processes of change, overuse or destruction of the natural environment through humans have historically placed high demands on social and political institutions. In the interplay between the environment, society and economy, the environmental policy field encompasses the sum of public measures that have the goal to eliminate, reduce or avoid environmental degradation. The course systematically presents the basics of environmental policy instruments, actors, programs and processes as well as their change over time. A key aspect is the distinction between politics and political science and specifically environmental policy.
Lecture notesInstead of lecture notes different texts on policy analysis and Swiss environmental policy are made available to the students.
LiteratureThe lecture is based on the following book to be published in the summer of 2016:
Ingold, K., Lieberherr, E., Schläpfer, I., Steinmann, K. und Zimmermann, W. Umweltpolitik der Schweiz: ein Lehrbuch. Zürich: Dike Verlag.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe detailed semester program (syllabus) is made available to the students at the beginning of the semester.
701-0757-00LPrinciples of Economics Information W3 credits2GR. Schubert
AbstractThis course covers the bases for understanding micro- and macroeconomic issues and theories. Participants are given the tools to argue in economic and political terms and to evaluate the corresponding measures. Group and individual exercises deepen the knowledge gained.
ObjectiveStudents are able to
- describe fundamental micro- and macroeconomic issues and theories.
- apply suitable economic arguments to a given theme.
- evaluate economic measures.
ContentSupply and demand behaviour of firm and households; market equilibrium and taxation; national income and indicators; inflation ; unemployment; growth; macroeconomics policies
Lecture notesavailable on electronic platform
LiteratureMankiw, N.G.: “Principles of Economics”, fourth edition, South-Western College/West, Mason 2006.

German translation: Mankiw, N.G. : Grundzüge der Volkswirtschaftslehre, 3rd. edition, Stuttgart 2004.
Prerequisites / Noticeelectronic plattform
701-0985-00LSocial Intercourse with Current Environmental RisksW1 credit1VB. Nowack, C. M. Som-Koller
AbstractThe lecture treats the social intercourse with risks of technical systems. The notion of risk and the perception of risk are discussed by case studies (e.g. nanotechnology) and socio-political instruments for decision-making are presented. Methods are presented that can be applied to deal with environmental risks and how they can be used for sustainable innovation.
Objective- Getting acquainted to the extended risk concept
- Evaluation of the risks caused by technology within the societal context
- Knowledge about the mode science and society handle current environmental risks (examples gene- and nanotechnology)
- Knowledge about handling risks (e.g. precautionary principle, protection goal, damage definition, ethics)
Knowledge about possibilities for sustainable innovation
Content- Risks and technical systems (risk categories, risk perception, risk management)
- Illustration with case studies (nanotechnology)
- Implementation (politics, science, media, etc.)
- Decision making (technology assessment, cost/benefit analysis etc.)
- The role of the media
- prospects for future developments
Lecture notesCopies of slides and selected documents will be distributed
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture is held biweekly (for 2 hours). The dates are 26.9., 3.10. (out of schedule), 24.10, 7.11, 21.11, 5.12, 19.12
701-0727-00LPolitics of Environmental Problem Solving in Developing CountriesW2 credits2GU. Scheidegger
AbstractThe course focuses on processes and drivers of decision-making on natural resources management issues in developing countries. It gives insights into the relevance of ecological aspects in developing countries. It covers concepts, instruments, processes and actors in environmental politics at the example of specific environmental challenges of global importance.
ObjectiveAfter completion of the module, students will be able to:
- Identify and appraise ecological aspects in development cooperation, development policies and developing countries' realities
- Analyze the forces, components and processes, which influence the design, the implementation and the outcome of ecological measures
- Characterize concepts, instruments and drivers of environmental politics and understand, how policies are shaped, both at national level and in multilateral negotiations
- Study changes (improvements) in environmental politics over time as the result of the interaction of processes and actors, including international development organizations
- Analyze politics and design approaches to influence them, looking among others at governance, social organization, legal issues and institutions
ContentKey issues and basic concepts related to environmental politics are introduced. Then the course predominantly builds on case studies, providing information on the context, specifying problems and potentials, describing processes, illustrating the change management, discussing experiences and outcomes, successes and failures. The analysis of the cases elucidates factors for success and pitfalls in terms of processes, key elements and intervention strategies.

Different cases not only deal with different environmental problems, but also focus on different levels and degrees of formality. This ranges from local interventions with resource user groups as key stakeholders, to country level policies, to multi- and international initiatives and conventions. Linkages and interaction of the different system levels are highlighted. Special emphasis is given to natural resources management.

The cases address the following issues:
- Land use and soil fertility enhancement: From degradation to sustainable use
- Common property resource management (forest and pasture): Collective action and property rights, community-based management
- Ecosystem health (integrated pest management, soil and water conservation)
- Payment for environmental services: Successes in natural resources management
- Climate change and agriculture: Adaptation and mitigation possibilities
- Biodiversity Convention: Implications for conservations and access to genetic resources
- Biodiversity as a means for more secure livelihoods: Agroforestry and intercropping
- The Millennium Development Goals: Interactions between poverty and the environment
- Poverty and natural resources management: Poverty reduction strategies, the view of the poor themselves
- Food security: Policies, causes for insecurity, the role of land grabbing
- Biofuels and food security: Did politics misfire?
- Strategy development at global level: IAASTD and World Development Report 2008
Lecture notesInformation concerning the case studies and specific issues illustrated therein will be provided during the course (uploaded on Moodle)
LiteratureRobbins P, 2004. Political ecology: a critical introduction. Blackwell Publishing, Oxford, UK, 242 p.

Peet R, Robbins P, Watts M, 2011. Global political ecology. Routledge, New York, 450 p.

Keeley J, Scoones I, 2000. Knowledge, power and politics: the environmental policy-making process in Ethiopia. The Journal of Modern African Studies, 38(1), 89-120.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe performance assessment will consist of an individual essay to be written by each student based on at least five references in addition to the sources provided in the course. Students can choose from a list of topics. Criteria for assessment will be communicated at the beginning of the course.
Philosophy
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0125-03LResearch Colloquium for Ph.D.-Students and Members of Staff Restricted registration - show details
Open for Master students on personal invitation.
Personal registration required to Mr. Wingert.
Z0 credits1KL. Wingert
AbstractPh.D. students and members of staff report on their research.
ObjectiveKey problems of research projects will be discussed. Participants will learn to know arguments and ideas dealing with systematic problems in philosophy.
851-0125-41LIntroduction Into Philosophy of Technology
Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET, D-MATL, D-MAVT
W3 credits2VO. Müller
AbstractSince antiquity philosophy reflects about and evaluates technology. The technical developments in the 19th and 20th century have led to a autonomous philosophy of technology, which had become important also for other philosophical disciplines (e.g. in Heidegger's philosophy).
ObjectiveThe course gives an overview on the main schools in the philosophy of technology. Students should learn to analyse and evaluate different philosophies of technology (compensation, objectification, externalisation). For credit point a critical protokoll is to be written.
851-0125-58LPhilosophy of the Environmental Sciences: An Introduction
Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-BSSE, D-CHAB, D-MTEC, D-USYS
W3 credits2SA.  Schwarz
AbstractEnvironmental knowledge and management is quite common in different research fields and in everyday practice. We will be identifying those concepts, objects and methods that mainly construe what might be called the core of the environmental sciences. This will be done by using different philosophical tools and approaches.
ObjectiveThe environmental sciences cover a wide range of scientific practices and objects and accordingly afford different kinds of scientific knowledge. Additionally, there is an important interplay between the scientific and the societal sphere. In this seminar we will examine likewise central and widespread concepts such as sustainable development or resilience by using philosophical tools that will allow to probe the different uses of those concepts, their semantic range in terms of historical depth and semantic fields and finally their logical coherence. Another important topic is the philosophical investigation of methods and objects that can be identified in the environmental sciences. Those methods are for instance Life Cycle Assessment or Adaptive Ecosystem Management, technological objects may be a wind engine or a hydropower plant. The latter raise questions of how renewable energies can be assessed and valuated, including the more general issue of how values and norms can be embedded in technological objects. This leads us to the third and last complex of topics that focus on current deliberations about possible new ways of existence in the age of the Anthropocene and as a consequence the formation of adequate life styles in our societies. This refers to issues in philosophical and social anthropology and the challenge of climate change.
851-0125-60LIntroduction to EpistemologyW3 credits2GN. El Kassar
AbstractIn this course we will examine fundamental questions of epistemology, e.g. What is knowledge? How are we to conceive of perception? Which beliefs are rational and justified? How do we acquire knowledge? By discussing a selection of seminal philosophical texts we will study fundamental epistemological theories.
Objective- conceptions of fundamental epistemological concepts
- sensitivity to epistemological questions
- capacity to reflect epistemological theories
- capacity to discuss epistemological theories
- reading philosophical texts (including English texts)
851-0125-18LSelf-Ownership - Philosophical and Juridical Perspectives
Does not take place this semester.
W3 credits2G
AbstractRights in Objects are founded by an inalienable Self-Ownership. These Idea ist central for personal rights. We speak of my body, my genes, my name, my portrait, my ideas oder ways of eypression.
ObjectiveParticipants will make acquintance with founding texts of the natural rights property concept (John Locke). They will see the connection between inalienable self-ownership, prohibition of slavery, derivaitve commercial rights and modern personal rights. They will learn about the problems of self-ownership today concerning property in one's body and intellectual property. Critical alternatives to the property paradigm will be discussed.

Participants will have the opportunity to gain access to unfamiliar texts from the philosophical tradition and to see their relevance today. They experience the consequences of a certain use of concepts und orient themselves in current bioethical, juridical and political discussions.
ContentTexts by Locke, Nozick, Christman, Otsuka, Rasmussen, Schneider, Stirner, Fichte and Forschner. Founding of property right in self-ownership (Locke), revival of this concept in Nozick and his egalitarian critics. Critique of the concept of self-ownership related to property in one's body. Looking back to the personal self-relatedness that comes up again in Intellectual Property and in modern personal rights.
LiteratureText, Seminarplan und Literaturliste in ILIAS Lehrdokumentenablage.
851-0125-51LMan and Machine
Does not take place this semester.
Particularly suitable for students of D-CHAB, D-HEST, D-MAVT, D-MATL
W3 credits2GM. Hampe
AbstractThe lecture gives an overview about the different Man-Machine-Relations since the 16th century. Different modells of machines will be important here: the clockwork, the steam engine and the computer.
ObjectiveOn the one hand modells of machines had a heuristical value in research on man, e.g. in Harvey's discovery of blood circulation in the 17th century or in brain research in the 20th century. On the other hand these modells were always criticised, sometimes polemically, because they are supposedly not adequate for man.
Students should learn about the connections between the history of anthropology and technology and be able at the end of the course to evaluate the critical philosophical arguments that are connected with the metaphor of the machine.
851-0125-61LWhat is the Value of Truth?W3 credits2GL. Wingert
AbstractIt is useful to know which fellowships are available or to know the causes of frequent occurence of extreme weather. These truths are of instrumental value. Is it also intrinsically good to know the truth, e.g. to know that there are gravitational waves? And which is the role of truth in our lives? The course will deal with such philosophical questions.
Objective1. Teilnehmer des Kurses werden mit verschiedenen, einflussreichen philosophischen Antworten und ihren Begründungen auf die Frage bekannt gemacht: Hat die (erkannte) Wahrheit einen Wert? (U.a. von William James, von Friedrich Nietzsche und Bernard Williams.)

2. Auch soll eine überlegte Meinung gewonnen werden zu dem Verhältnis von zweckfreier Grundlagenforschung und nützlichen Anwendungen in den Wissenschaften.

3. Ebenso soll ein besseres Urteil gebildet werden darüber, welche existenzielle Rolle die Suche nach Wahrheiten in unserem persönlichen Leben hat.
851-0125-62LOn the Relation Between Nature and Social Culture in Human Cognition and ActionW3 credits2GL. Wingert
AbstractHow should we human beings understand ourselves according to our best knowledge about us, the social world, human history and nature? What are the relationsships between biological and socio-cultural determinants of our thinking and doing? Michael Tomasello, psychologist, and social philosopher, has answered these questions in a thought provoking way. His answers will be studied and examined.
Objective
LiteratureMichael Tomasello, A Natural History of Human Thinking, Cambridge, Ma.: Harvard University Press 2014.

Michael Tomasello, A Natural History of Human Morality, Cambridge, Ma.: Harvard University Press 2016.

Michael Tomasello, Why We Cooperate, Cambridge, Ma: MIT-Press 2009.
851-0125-63LImages of Mathematics
Particularly suitable for students of D-MATH
W3 credits2GM. Hampe, A. Schubbach
AbstractThe lecture series "Images of Mathematics" deals with the formalization of the objects and the logical language of mathematics from Hilbert to Gödel and considers its consequences in view of our conception of mathematical practice and knowledge, the limits of calculability and computability in mathematics, and the relation between the logical proof procedures and the involved intuitive aspects.
ObjectiveThe lecture series will present philosophical problems of theoretical mathematics in the 20th century and will discuss the consequences of formalization and axiomatization. It aims at a critical reflection on the modern images of mathematics.
ContentHow we understand Mathematics is probably strongly influenced by the Mathematics lessons we participated in during our school days. The common image of mathematics is therefore often characterized by the impression of a very stable form of knowledge with clear-cut problems and suitable recipes for finding the solution. It is a very static image which is very much in conflict with the rapid series of innovations that the discipline has experienced especially since the 19th century: Mathematics as a field of research has been highly innovative and even revolutionary as few other scientific disciplines in the last 200 hundred years.

These mathematical innovations did not only contribute to a progress amassing more and more knowledge. They very often changed how mathematicians conceived of their discipline. Even a contribution to a specific research question that appears at first sight to be minor can sometimes establish new connections to other fields, found a whole research field of its own or introduce new methods thereby changing the whole image of mathematics in the same way that a small addition to a picture can alter radically what we take it to represent.

The lecture series "Images of Mathematics" deals with a few moments in the history of the scientific discipline since the middle of the 19th century when the image of mathematics changed. In particular, it focuses on the consequences of the fact that in the 19th century mathematics started to not only reflect on their own conceptual and methodological foundations in a general manner (which had been done since the dawn of mathematics and was especially a philosophical task), but to formalize them in a strict, mathematical way: the objects of mathematics, its logical language and its proof procedures. Through Cantor's set theory, the mathematical treatment of logic since Boole and especially through Frege and the formalization of its axioms in a wide ranging discussion involving Zermelo, Fraenkel and others, this self-reflexive stance came to the fore.

Yet, the deeper mathematics dug into its foundations, the more radical the problems became. Finally, the optimistic Hilbert program of laying the foundation of mathematics within mathematics and of proving its own consistency as well as its completeness contributed to clarifying of the foundation of mathematics primarily insofar as it was doomed to failure. Gödel proved his famous incompleteness theorems and thereby dismissed at the same time the formalist attempt to reduce mathematical truth to logical provability. His work resulted in detailed insights in the precariousness of the foundation of mathematics and further numerous of productive consequences within mathematics.

Moreover, Gödel's theorems open many far-reaching and intriguing questions in view of our image of mathematics, questions concerning the conception of mathematical practice and knowledge, the limits of calculability of mathematics and the possible role of computability and machines in mathematics, the relation between the logical proof procedures and the involved intuitive aspects. In short, the image of mathematics is not as static as we sometimes expect it to be, it was radically redrawn by the mathematicians of the 20th century and has since then again been open to diverging interpretations.
LiteratureFor further reading (optional): Mark van Atten and Juliette Kennedy, Gödel's Logic, in: Handbook of the History of Logic, Vol 5: Logic from Russell to Church, ed. by Dov M. Gabbay and John Woods, Amsterdam 2009, 449-509; Jack Copeland et al. (eds.), Computability. Turing, Gödel, Church, and beyond, Cambridge 2013; Ian Hacking, Why is there philosophy of mathematics at all? Cambridge 2014; Pirmin Stekeler-Weithofer, Formen der Anschauung. Eine Philosophie der Mathematik, Berlin 2008; Christian Tapp, An den Grenzen des Endlichen. Das Hilbertprogramm im Kontext von Formalismus und Finitismus, Heidelberg 2013.
851-0125-57LValues in Science Information Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 25
W3 credits2SK. Bschir
AbstractShould science be free from moral, political or ideological influences? According to the so-called value-free ideal it should. Many scientists think of themselves as committed to truth and objectivity and nothing else. In this seminar, we will track the history of the value-free ideal and engage in a debate about the potential role of so-called non-epistemic values in science.
ObjectiveIn the past decades, philosophers of science have begun to challenge the value-free ideal in science. With the help of recent literature from the philosophy of science, students will be introduced to the debate on values in science and the reasons for why the value-free ideal has come under attack. They will be familiarized with the distinction between epistemic (truth-conducive) values and so-called non-epistemic values. The course aims at enabling students to critically reflect the potential role of non-epistemic values in science.
ContentLink
LiteratureLink
851-0180-00LResearch Ethics Restricted registration - show details
Particularly suitable for students of D-BIOL, D-CHAB, D-HEST
W2 credits2GG. Achermann
AbstractThis course has its focus on the responsible conduct of research (RCR) and the ethical dimensions of the biological and biomedical sciences.
ObjectiveThe main goal of this course is to enhance the student's ability to:
- recognize and identify ethical issues and conflicts,
- analyze and develop well-reasoned responses to the kinds of ethical problems a scientist is likely to encounter.

Additionally, students will become familiar with regulations and ethical guidelines relevant for their research field on the international, governmental, institutional and professional level.

To achieve these objectives, teaching methods will include lectures, discussions, case study work (alone and in groups), moral games, paper work and exercises.
ContentI. Ethics & the Process of Ethical Inquiry
---------------------------------------

Introduction in Ethics and Research Ethics
- What is ethics? What ethics is not...;
- Awareness: what constitutes an ethical question? Distinguishing ethical questions from other kinds of questions; Science & ethics: a comparison;
- The ethics movement in the biological and health sciences;
- What is research ethics and why is it important?
- Values (personal, cultural & ethical) in science & principles for ethical conduct in research;
- Professional codes of conduct: functions and limitations

Ethical approaches in the conduct of research (Normative Ethics)
- Overview over important theories for research ethics: virtue theories, duty-based theories (rights theory, categorical imperative, prima facie duties), consequentialist theories, other theories);
- The plurality of ethical theories and its consequences;
- The concept of dignity

Moral reasoning I: Arguments
- Why arguments? What is a good argument? The structure of (moral) arguments;
- Deductive and inductive arguments; Validity and soundness;
- Assessing moral arguments

Moral reasoning II: Decision-making
- How (not) to approach ethical issues...; Is there a correct method for answering moral questions?
- Models of method in Applied Ethics: a) Top-down approaches; b) the reflective equilibrium; c) a bottom-up approach: casuistry (or reasoning-by-analogy);
- Is there a right answer?


II. Research Ethics / Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR)
----------------------------------------------------------

Integrity in Research & Research Misconduct
- What is "integrity" in scientific research? What is research misconduct (falsification, fabrication, plagiarism - FFP) and questionable research practices (QRP)?
- Factors leading to misconduct; Procedure for responding to allegations of research misconduct;
- The confidant of ETH Zurich

Data Management
- Data collection and recordkeeping; Analysis and selection of data;
- Ownership of data; retention and sharing of data;
- Falsification and fabrication of data

Research involving animals
- The moral status of animals; Ethical approaches to animal experimentation: Animal welfare (Peter Singer) and Animal rights (Tom Regan);
- The 3 R's (replacement, reduction, refinement);
- Ethical assessment of conflicting issues in animal experimentation;
- The dignity of animals in the Swiss constitution;

Research involving human subjects
- History & guidelines (Nuremberg Code; Declaration of Helsinki; Belmont Report; International Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical Research Involving Human Subjects (CIOMS Guidelines); Convention on Human Rights and Biomedicine (Oviedo Convention);
- Informed consent; confidentiality and anonymity; research risks and benefits; vulnerable subjects;
- Clinical trials;
- Biobanks
- Ethics Committees / Institutional Review Boards (IRB)

Authorship & Peer review
- Criteria for authorship;
- Plagiarism;
- Challenges to openness and freedom in scientific publication;
- Open access
- Peer review

Social responsibility
- What is social responsibility? Social responsibility: whose obligation?
- Public advocacy by researchers
Lecture notesCourse material (handouts, case studies, exercises, surveys and papers) will be available during the lectures and on the course homepage.
LiteratureRecommended literature:

- Bulger R.E., Heitman E. & Reiser S.J. (2002) "The Ethical Dimensions of the Biological and Health Sciences" 2nd ed., Cambridge University Press
- Shamoo A.E. & Resnik D.B. (2003) "Responsible Conduct of Research", New York, Oxford University Press
- "On Being a Scientist. Responsible Conduct in Research (2009)" 3rd ed., Link;
- "Introduction to the Responsible Conduct of Research" (Link)

Detailed literature lists for the different topics of the course will be provided in the script/handout or on the course work space.
851-0145-05LNarratives of Health and Illness Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 30

Particularly suitable for students of D-HEST
W3 credits2SS. Baier
AbstractDas Seminar gibt einen Einblick in den Forschungsbereich der Narrativen Medizin als Teilbereich der Medizinischen Geisteswissenschaften. Erzählungen spielen eine vielfältige Rolle, wenn es um Gesundheit und Krankheit geht
ObjectiveZiel der Veranstaltung ist es, eine eigenständige kritische Perspektive auf Erzählungen von Gesundheit und Krankheit zu ermöglichen. Im Seminar werden daher unterschiedliche Arten von aktuellen Texten und Materialien zur Rolle von medizinischen Narrativen kritisch miteinander diskutiert.
851-0148-04LCyclical timeW3 credits2ST. Böhm
AbstractThe idea of cyclical time is found in ancient pieces of wisdom (Pythagoreans, Plato, Buddhism) as reincarnation or memory, but also in Nietzsche as eternal return, in Deleuze as repetition, in Freud as repetition compulsion. We investigate the concept of repetition in combination with difference as a positive mode of thinking change.
ObjectiveUnderstanding of the various forms and functions of repetition on the basis of texts by Plato (anamnesis), Freud (repetition compulsion), Kierkegaard (narration), Nietzsche (eternal return as cosmological and ethical principle), Deleuze (time synthesis and repetition of the future), Poincarés theorem of recurrence.
851-0144-20LPhilosophical Aspects of Quantum Physics
Particularly suitable for students of D-CHAB, D-PHYS
W3 credits2SN. Sieroka, R. Renner
AbstractThis course provides an introduction to philosophical issues surrounding quantum physics. In particular, we will examine different interpretations of quantum mechanics (such as the many-world interpretation) and the transition between the quantum and the classical physical realm (here phenomena such as decoherence will be highlighted).
ObjectiveBy the end of the course students are able to describe and compare different interpretations of quantum mechanics. They are able to identify and examine issues concerning these different interpretations and issues concerning the transition between quantum and classical descriptions in physics. Students are in a position to critically discuss and evaluate the repercussions of these issues in broader scientific contexts.
851-0144-19LPhilosophy of Time
Does not take place this semester.
Particularly suitable for students of D-BIOL, D-INFK, D-MATH, D-PHYS
W3 credits2VN. Sieroka
AbstractThis course provides an introduction to philosophical issues surrounding the concept of time. We will treat topics such as: the existence of past, present, and future; the possibility of time travel; the constitution of time consciousness and its possible neurophysiological counterparts; temporal biases in the conduct of our lives; responsibility to future and past generations.
ObjectiveBy the end of the course students are able to describe and compare different theories and concepts of time (physical time, perceptual time, historical time ...). They are able to identify and examine issues concerning time as they occur in various philosophical subdisciplines - especially in philosophy of science, philosophy of mind, metaphysics, and ethics. Students are in a position to critically discuss and evaluate the repercussions of these issues in broader scientific and social contexts.
Part of the course reflects on methods and contents from physics, neuroscience/cognitive science, and logic.
851-0144-21LPhilosophical Issues and Problems in Theoretical Computer Science
Particularly suitable for students of D-INFK
W3 credits2VG. Sommaruga, J. Copeland, D. Proudfoot
AbstractThis course studies philosophical issues concerning computers and computing.
Topics include: information (and information content), computational complexity, the Turing Test for computer thought; the "Chinese Room" argument against the possibility of strong AI; connectionist AI; consciousness; the Church-Turing thesis; computational and hypercomputational models of mind; and free will.
Objective- Exhibit a general understanding of the philosophy and history of computing.
- Explain central problems in the field and their potential solutions, independently and at a level requiring in-depth knowledge and critical understanding.
- Communicate clearly in writing about topics in this field.
851-0144-22LDevelopments in Logic after Gödel: Applications to Theoretical Computer Science Restricted registration - show details
Particularly suitable for students of D-INFK
W3 credits2VG. Sommaruga, J. Copeland
AbstractThe course will start by presenting a modern logic, namely (propositional) modal logic, which has turned out to be extremely fruitful and to have numerous interesting applications in computer science, mathematics and philosophy. Subsequently, two of these applications to computer science, tense logic and dynamic logic, and one application to mathematics, provability logic, will be introduced.
Objective- Learn the fundamental concepts of a range of propositional logics
- Learn how to construct proofs in these logics
- Study the interface between mathematical logic and computer science, and mathematical logic and mathematics
851-0127-28LDeath - The Secret Problem of Life Restricted registration - show details W3 credits2SH. Wiedebach
AbstractNo detective novel without a corpse, no religion without knowledge about death and life, no large transplantation of an organ without certificate for the donor's death. Is a dead person always a corpse? - Death is part of life and yet stands simultaneously in opposition to it. We cling to life and nonetheless wish to have the option to commit suicide. Do we know what we really want in that case?
ObjectiveDiscussion of 1) several conceptions of death in history, 2) determination of death in a medical sense (brain-death, etc.). 3) The search for a personal view about life and death. 4) The practice of a precise manner of speaking based on reflection.
LiteratureTexte als Diskussionsgrundlage werden zu Beginn des Semesters genannt bzw. als PDF unter "Lernmaterialien" veröffentlicht.
Prerequisites / NoticeLeistungsnachweise der Studenten:
- Es besteht Anwesenheitspflicht. Einmaliges Fehlen ist möglich mit Entschuldigung. Als Ersatz die Sitzung wird eine 4-seitige Darstellung des diskutierten Textes geliefert.
- Ab dem 2. Seminartermin erfolgt im Voraus pro Sitzung (d.h. insgesamt 6mal) eine 2-seitige Darstellung bzw. Stellungnahme zu einem vorgegebenen Text.
- Die 2-seitigen Darstellungen müssen bis Dienstag Abend in der Woche vor der nächsten Sitzung vorliegen, damit wir Zeit haben, sie zu lesen.
- Statt einer der 6 Kurzdarstellungen kann ein einführendes Referat (15 min, max. 2 Personen) gehalten werden.
- MA-Studenten Philosophie und Geschichte des Wissens schreiben zusätzlich einen 5-seitigen Essay zu Michael Theunissen: "Die Gegenwart des Todes im Leben".

- Ihre Texte schicken Sie bitte an die eigens eingerichtete Email-Adresse:
Link

Formalia (Minimalanforderungen):
- Schriftbild: Zeilenabstand 1.5, Schriftgrösse 12, Seitenabstand 2.5cm, Schriftart: Arial, Times New Roman.
- Vor- und Nachname, Matrikelnummer, Veranstaltungsname, Dozent, E-Mail-Adr., Studiengang.

- organisatorische Rückfragen bitte an
den Assistenten Raphael Salvi: Link
701-0701-00LPhilosophy of ScienceW3 credits2VG. Hirsch Hadorn, C. J. Baumberger
AbstractThe lecture explores various strands in philosophy of science in a critical way, focusing on the notion of rationality in science, especially with regards to environmental research. It addresses the significance and limits of empirical, mathematical and logical methods, as well as problems and ethical issues raised by the use of science in society.
ObjectiveStudents learn to engage with problems in the philosophy of science and to relate them to natural and environmental sciences, thus developing their skills in critical thinking about science and its use. They know the most important positions in philosophy of science and the objections they face. They can identify, structure and discuss issues raised by the use of science in society.
Content1. Core differences between classical Greek and modern conceptions of science.
2. Classic positions in the philosophy of science in the 20th century: logical empiricism and critical rationalism (Popper); the analysis of scientific concepts and explanations.
3. Objections to logical empiricism and critical rationalism, and further developments: What is the difference between the natural sciences, the social sciences and the arts and humanities? What is progress in science (Kuhn, Fleck, Feyerabend)? Is scientific knowledge relativistic? What is the role of experiments and computer simulations?
4. Issues raised by the use of science in society: The relation between basic and applied research; inter- and transdisciplinarity; ethics and accountability of science.
Lecture notesA reader will be available for students.
LiteratureA list of introductory literature and handbooks will be distributed to the students.
Prerequisites / NoticeOral examination during the session examination.
Further optional exercises accompany the lecture and offer the opportunity for an in-depth discussion of selected texts from the reader. Students receive an additional credit point. They have to sign up separately for the exercises for the course 701-0701-01 U.
701-0701-01LPhilosophy of Science: ExercisesW1 credit1UG. Hirsch Hadorn, C. J. Baumberger
AbstractThe exercises in philosophy of science serve to develop skills in critical thinking by discussing seminal texts about the rationality of science. Topics discussed include the significance and limits of empirical, mathematical and logical methods, as well as problems and ethical issues raised by the use of science in society.
ObjectiveStudents can engage with problems in the philosophy of science and to relate them to natural and environmental sciences. They learn to analyze and summarize philosophical texts. In this way, they develop their skills in critical thinking with a focus on the rationality of science.
ContentThe optional exercises accompany the lecture and serve to develop skills in critical thinking with a focus on the rationality of science, based on discussing seminal texts. The texts cover important positions in the philosophy of science and their critics. Topics discussed include the significance and limits of empirical, mathematical and logical methods, as well as problems and ethical issues raised by the use of science in society.
Lecture notesA reader will be available for students.
LiteratureA list of literature will be distributed to the students together with the reader.
Prerequisites / NoticeStudents that want to subscribe for this course also have to subscribe for the lecture 701-0701-00 V "Wissenschaftsphilosophie". Credit points are given for preparing a structure and a summary of one of the texts.
701-0703-00LEnvironmental Ethics Information W2 credits2VM. Huppenbauer
AbstractThe lecture beginns with an introduction to applied ethics in general. The main focus is on environmental ethics. Students learn to handle important concepts and positions of environmental ethics. They achieve a deeper understanding of these concepts and positions in applying them to ecological problems and discussing them in case studies.
ObjectiveOn completion of this lecture course you will have acquired the ability to identify and process general and environmental ethical problems. You will be capable of recognising and analysing environmental ethical problems and of working towards a solution. You will have acquired a fundamental knowledge of standpoints and argumentations to be found within the field of environmental ethics and will have practised these in small case studies.
Content- Introduction to general and applied ethics.
- Overview and discussion of ethical theories relevant to the environment.
- Familiarisation with various basic standpoints within environmental ethics.
- Cross-section topics, such as sustainability, intergenerational justice, protection of species, etc.
- Practising of newly acquired knowledge in case studies (protection of species, climate change, etc.)
Lecture notesSummaries of the individual sessions will be distributed, including the most important theories and keywords; reading list.
In the part of the course serving as an introduction to general and applied ethics, we shall be using the following textbook: Barbara Bleisch/Markus Huppenbauer: Ethische Entscheidungsfindung. Ein Handbuch für die Praxis, 2nd Edition Zürich 2014
Literature- Angelika Krebs (Hrg.) Naturethik. Grundtexte der gegenwärtigen tier- und ökoethischen Diskussion 1997
- Andrew Light/Holmes Rolston III, Environmental Ethics. An Anthology, 2003
- John O'Neill et al., Environmental Values, 2008
- Klaus Peter Rippe, Ethik im ausserhumanen Bereich, Paderborn (mentis) 2008

Generel introductions:
- Barbara Bleisch/Markus Huppenbauer: Ethische Entscheidungsfindung. Ein Handbuch für die Praxis, Zürich 2014, 2. Auflage
- Marcus Düwell et. al (Hrg.), Handbuch Ethik, 2. Auflage, Stuttgart (Metzler Verlag), 2006
- Johann S. Ach et. al (Hrg.), Grundkurs Ethik 1. Grundlagen, Paderborn (mentis) 2008
Prerequisites / NoticeThe procedure for accumulating CP will be explained at the start of term.
I expect participants to be motivated and contribute to discussions, keeping the course interesting and lively.
851-0121-32LIntroduction to Ethics of ScienceW3 credits2SN. Mazouz
AbstractThis course covers both, issues of research ethics and of the social responsibility of scientists. Thereby the relevant theories for the determination of science and its tasks are introduced, as well as the main ethical theories.
ObjectiveStudents learn to identify, analyse and evaluate problems concerning research ethics as well as the political and social role of science. They form their abilities to reason as well as to interpret and write texts.
Political Science
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0594-00LInternational Environmental Politics
Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET, D-USYS
W3 credits2VT. Bernauer
AbstractThis course focuses on the conditions under which cooperation in international environmental politics emerges and the conditions under which such cooperation and the respective public policies are effective and/or efficient.
ObjectiveThe objectives of this course are to (1) gain an overview of relevant questions in the area of international environmental politics from a social sciences viewpoint; (2) learn how to identify interesting/innovative questions concerning this policy area and how to answer them in a methodologically sophisticated way; (3) gain an overview of important global and regional environmental problems.
ContentThis course deals with how and why international cooperation in environmental politics emerges, and under what circumstances such cooperation is effective and efficient. Based on theories of international political economy and theories of government regulation various examples of international environmental politics are discussed: the management of international water resources, the problem of unsafe nuclear power plants in eastern Europe, political responses to global warming, the protection of the stratospheric ozone layer, the reduction of long-range transboundary air pollution in Europe, the prevention of pollution of the oceans, etc.

The course is open to all ETH students. Participation does not require previous coursework in the social sciences.

After passing an end-of-semester test (requirement: grade 4.0 or higher) students will receive 3 ECTS credit points. The workload is around 90 hours (meetings, reading assignments, preparation of test).

Visiting students (e.g., from the University of Zurich) are subject to the same conditions. Registration of visiting students in the web-based system of ETH is compulsory.
Lecture notesAssigned reading materials and slides will be available at Link (select link 'Registered students, please click here for course materials' at top of that page). Log in with your nethz name and password. Questions concerning access to course materials can be addressed to Mike Hudecheck (Mike Hudecheck <Link>). All assigned papers must be read ahead of the respective meeting. Following the course on the basis of on-line slides and papers alone is not sufficient. Physical presence in the classroom is essential. Many books and journals covering international environmental policy issues can be found at the D-GESS library at the IFW building, Haldeneggsteig 4, B-floor, or in the library of D-USYS.
LiteratureAssigned reading materials and slides will be available at Link (select link 'Registered students, please click here for course materials' at top of that page). Log in with your nethz name and password. Questions concerning access to course materials can be addressed to Mike Hudecheck (Mike Hudecheck <Link>).
Prerequisites / NoticeNone
851-0589-00LTechnology and Innovation for DevelopmentW Dr3 credits2VP. Aerni
AbstractTechnological change plays a crucial role in efforts to create a more sustainable future. In this context, policy decision makers must design rules that minimize its risks and maximize its benefits for society at large. The course discusses this challenge from an interdisciplinary perspective taking into account legal, economic, historical, development and environmental aspects..
Objective- to recognize the challenges and opportunities of technological change in terms of sustainable development
- to become familiar with policy instruments to promote innovation
- to improve understanding of political decision-making processes in the regulation of science & technology
- improved understanding of the role of science and technology in the context of human and societal development
ContentScience and Technology Policy is normally associated with the improvement of national competitiveness; yet, it is also an integral part of effective environmental and development policies.
The course will discuss the challenges and opportunities of technological change in terms of sustainable development and show how public policy on the national and the international level is responding to this change.

In this context, students are to become familiar with the basic principles of political economy and New Growth Theory and how such theories help explain political decisions as well as political outcomes in the area of Science, Technology and Innovation. State interventions are either designed to regulate (e.g. environmental regulations, anti-trust law) or facilitate (e.g. intellectual property rights protection, public investment in R&D and technical education, technology transfer) technological change. This will be illustrated by looking at different industries and different national systems of innovation. Subsequently the positive and negative consequences for society and the natural environment will be discussed from a short-term and a long-term perspective.
Lecture notesReader with issue-specific articles. E-version is partly available under
Link
LiteratureAerni, P. 2015a. Entrepreneurial Rights as Human Rights: Why Economic Rights Must Include the Human Right to Science and the Freedom to Grow Through Innovation. Banson, Cambridge, UK

Aerni, P. 2015b. The Sustainable Provision of Environmental Services: From Regulation to Innovation. Springer, Heidelberg.

Aerni, P., Gagalac, F., Scholderer, J. 2016. The role of biotechnology in combating climate change: A question of politics. Science and Public Policy, 43 (1): 13-28.

Aerni, P., Nichterlein, K., Rudgard, S, Sonnino, A. 2015. Making Agricultural Innovation Systems (AIS) Work for Development in Tropical Countries. Sustainability 7 (1): 831-850.

Aerni, P. 2013b. Do Private Standards encourage or hinder trade and innovation? NCCR Trade Working Paper 18/2013.

Aerni, P. 2009a. What is Sustainable Agriculture? Empirical Evidence of Diverging Views in Switzerland and New Zealand. Ecological Economics 68(6): 1872-1882.

Aerni, P. 2007. Exploring the Linkages between Commerce, Higher Education and Human Development: A Historical Review. ATDF Journal 4(2): 35-47.

Aerni, P. 2004. Risk, Regulation and Innovation: The Case of Aquaculture and Transgenic Fish. Aquatic Sciences 66: 327-341.

Arthur, B. 2009. The Nature of Technology. New York: Free Press.

Baylis, K./Rausser, G. C. and Leo S. 2005. Including Non-Trade Concerns: The Environment in EU and US Agricultural Policy. International Journal of Agricultural Resources Governance and Ecology, 4 (3/4): 262-276.

Brown, T. (2013) The Precautionary Principle is a blunt instrument. The Guardian. July 9, 2013.

Burk, D. L. & Lemley, M. A. 2009. The Patent Crisis and How to Solve it. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.

Burk, D., L. 2013. Patent Reform in the United States: Lessons Learned. Regulation: 1-25.

Carr, N. 2008. The Big Switch. Rewiring the World from Edison to Google. W. W. Norton & Company, New York.

Christensen, C. 2011. Innovatior's Dilemma. Harper Business, New York.

Christensen, Jon. 2013. The Biggest Wager. Nature 500: 273-4.

Diamond, Jared. 2013. The World Until Yesterday: What Can We Learn from Traditional Societies. Viking, New York.

Diamond, Jared. 1999. Guns, Germs and Steel. New York: Norton.

Farber, Daniel. 2000. Eco-pragmatism: Making Sensible Environmental Decisions in an Uncertain World. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 2000.

Farinelli, F., Bottini, M., Akkoyunlu, S., Aerni, P. 2011. Green entrepreneurship: the missing link towards a greener economy. ATDF Journal 8(3/4): 42-48.

Freidberg, S. (2007). Supermarkets and imperial knowledge. Cultural Geographies, 14(3): 321-342.

Goldstone, Jeffrey. 2010. Engineering Culture, Innovation, and Modern Wealth Creation. In: C. Karlsson, R.R. Stough, B. Johansson (eds) Entrepreneurship and Innovations in Functional Regions. Northampton: Edgar Elgar.

Hamblin, J. D. 2013. Arming Mother Nature: The Birth of Catastrophic Environmentalism. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Jefferson, D. J., Graff, G. D, Chi-Ham, C. L. & Bennett, A. B. (2015) The emergence of agbiogenerics. Nature Biotechnology 33 (8): 819-823

Juma, Calestous. 2016. Innovation and its Enemies. Oxford University Press.

Kaul, Inge, Grunberg, Isabelle, and Marc A. Stern (eds). 1999. 'Global Public Goods. International Cooperation in the 21th century.' Published for the United Nations Development Program. New York: Oxford University Press.

Rosenberg, Nathan. 2000.'Schumpeter and the Endogeneity of Technology'. London: Routledge.

Warsh, David. 2006. Knowledge and the Wealth of Nations. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe 2-hour course (5-7 p.m.) will be held as a series of lectures. The course materials will be available in form of an electronic Reader at the beginning of the semester.
The class will be taught in English.
Students will be asked to give a (a) presentation (15 Minutes) or write a review paper based on a article selected from the electronic script, and (b) they will have to pass a written test at the end of the course in order to obtain 3 credit points in the ECTS System. In the final mark (a) will have a weight of 40% and (b) 60%.
853-0038-00LSwiss Foreign PolicyW3 credits2VD. Möckli Weder
AbstractThis course analyzes the foundations and challenges of Swiss foreign policy. After reviewing the history of foreign policy conceptions since the early 20th century, we will discuss the determining factors of Swiss foreign policy and examine, together with guest speakers from the foreign ministry, current issues such as the Syria crisis, the migration challenge, terrorism, and Swiss-EU relations.
ObjectiveStudents should acquire a sound understanding of Swiss foreign policy and the relevant academic and political debates associated with it.
ContentNach einer Einführung in die Aussenpolitikanalyse behandelt die Lehrveranstaltung zunächst die historischen Grundlagen und die konzeptionelle Entwicklung der schweizerischen Aussenpolitik. Dabei stehen die unterschiedlichen Reaktionen der Schweiz auf die internationalen Neuordnungen nach 1918, 1945 und 1989 und die seitherige Ausgestaltung der Schweizer Aussenpolitik im Zentrum. Es wird auch darum gehen, zentrale Determinanten der Schweizer Aussenpolitik zu identifizieren, wobei der Neutralität, der direkten Demokratie und dem Sonderfallparadigma besondere Beachtung geschenkt wird.
Auf dieser Basis werden wir die derzeitigen weltpolitischen Entwicklungslinien und deren Bedeutung für die Schweiz analysieren. Zu den aussenpolitischen Herausforderungen und Themen, die wir diskutieren, gehören die Syrienkrise und andere Konflikte im Nahen und Mittleren Osten, die Ukrainekrise und das Engagement in der OSZE, die Friedensförderungspolitik der Schweiz generell, die Entwicklungszusammenarbeit, die aussenpolitischen Beiträge zur Bewältigung der Migrationskrise, das Engagement der Schweiz gegen den Terrorismus, die Europapolitik und die Politik in der UNO.
Die erste Stunde wird in der Regel als Vorlesung des Dozenten bestritten. In der zweiten Stunde vertiefen wir Themen teilweise durch den Einbezug von Gastreferaten von Mitarbeitenden des Eidgenössischen Departements für auswärtige Angelegenheiten (EDA).
Lecture notesStudents will receive a handout of slides accompanying the lectures.
LiteratureA reading list will be handed out at the beginning of the semester.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe course will be supported by an e-learning environment.
853-0047-01LWorld Politics Since 1945: The History of International Relations (Without Exercises)W3 credits2VA. Wenger
AbstractThis lecture series provides students with an overview of the development of international relations since the end of World War II. The first part of the series deals with the development of and changes in Cold War security policy structures. The second part deals with the period after the transformation of 1989/91; the focus here is on current issues in international security policy.
ObjectiveBy the end of the semester, participants should have a solid knowledge of the history and theoretical foundations of International Relations since the end of the Second World War.
Contentcf. "Diploma Supplement"
LiteratureReading:

Wenger, Andreas und Doron Zimmermann. International Relations: From the Cold War to the Globalized World. Boulder: Lynne Rienner, 2003.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecure is being supported by a website on Moodle. If you have any questions, please contact Lukas Meyer, Link.
853-0060-00LCurrent Issues in Security PolicyW3 credits2VA. Wenger, O. Thränert
AbstractThis course provides an overview of the security implications of so-called "dual-use" technologies, i.e. technologies that can be used for both peaceful and military aims. The course will also cover various policies - in particular arms control - that are discussed and applied by the international community in dealing with such dual-use technologies.
ObjectiveParticipants should gain a solid understanding of security challenges stemming from the use and control of dual-use technologies. In addition, the students should become aware of how researchers can deal with sensitive knowledge regarding research transparency and control.
ContentThe aim of the course is to provide participants with an overview of international security politics with a special focus on dual-use technologies. Students will analyze the character of dual-use security risks and of risk-based security strategies and instruments. Thematic areas include the nuclear non-proliferation regime, biological and chemical weapons conventions, missile proliferation, the nuclear programs of Iran and North Korea, cyber and space technologies, as well as robotics and nanotechnology.
Lecture notesParticipants are expected to study the compulsory texts provided at the beginning of the semester via the online platform Moodle.
LiteratureA reading list will be distributed at the beginning of the semester.
Prerequisites / NoticeAn online learning platform serves as a supplement to the course.
853-0033-00LLeadership IW3 credits2VF. Kernic
AbstractThe lectures "Leadership I" (WS) and "Leadership II" (SS) have been designed as a two-semester lecture series, but may also be followed independently of one another or in reverse order. "Leadership I" covers the following fields: leadership basics, leadership theories and leadership styles, the concept of leadership responsibility and the role of communication in practical leadership.
ObjectiveThe aim of this lecture is to give students an introductory overview of relevant topics regarding leadership research and practice, thus enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of the leadership phenomenon. Students should understand different concepts of leadership in the complex interaction between individuals, groups, organisation, context and situation. They should be informed about the evolution of the understanding of mankind in relation to working processes and its impact on organizations and the understanding of leadership theory in the past 100 years. They should grasp the concept of leadership responsibility (leadership ethics) and be able to derive consequences for leadership in practical situations. They should recognize the fundamental importance of communication in leadership situations and receive input which enables them to communicate adequately in specific situations.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe 1-hour written exam will take place during the last lecture in the semester.
853-0015-01LConflict Research I: Causes of War in Historical Context (without exercises) Restricted registration - show details W3 credits2VS. Rüegger, G. Schvitz
AbstractThis course offers an introduction to research on causes of wars. War as a social phenomenon is covered from the pre-state world to today's state system after the end of the Cold War. Topics include state formation and collapse, nationalism, decolonization, democracy, and ethnic conflict.
ObjectiveDeveloping an understanding for causes of war and their development over the last 500 years. Knowledge of fundamental concepts in research on causes of war.
853-0302-01LEuropean Integration (Seminar without Tutorial)W2 credits2SF. Schimmelfennig
AbstractThe lecture course covers the theory, development, and core policy fields of European integration as well as structures and processes of the EU as a decision- and policy-making system.
ObjectiveThe seminar is designed to help students understand the European Union as a particular kind of political system that differs both from the nation-state and from other international organizations. It imparts basic knowledge on the development, institutions, procedures, and policies of the EU and provides an introduction to major approaches to integration theory and political science research on the EU.
Content1. Introduction
2. Theories of European integration
3. The development of European integration
4. Internal market and monetary union
5. Internal and external security policies
6. Constitutionalization
7. Widening and differentiation
8. Switzerland, the EEA, and EU neighbourhood policies
9. Identity, trust, and solidarity
10. Public spheres, parties, and elections
11. Decision-making and policy development in the EU
12. Statehood and democracy in the EU
13. European integration in crisis
Lecture notesThe seminar covers the theory, development, and core policy fields of European integration as well as structures and processes of the EU as a decision- and policy-making system.
LiteratureBasislektüre
Schmidt, Siegmar und Wolf J. Schünemann: Europäische Union. Eine Einführung. Baden-Baden: Nomos 2013
Prerequisites / NoticeThe grade is based on a written exam.
860-0001-00LPublic Institutions and Policy-Making Processes Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 25.
Priority for Science, Technology, and Policy MSc students.
W3 credits3GT. Bernauer, S. Bechtold, F. Schimmelfennig
AbstractStudents acquire the contextual knowledge for analyzing public policies. They learn why and how public policies and laws are developed, designed, and implemented at national and international levels, and what challenges arise in this regard.
ObjectivePublic policies result from decision-making processes that take place within formal institutions of the state (parliament, government, public administration, courts). That is, policies are shaped by the characteristics of decision-making processes and the characteristics of public institutions and related actors (e.g. interest groups). In this course, students acquire the contextual knowledge for analyzing public policies. They learn why and how public policies and laws are developed, designed, and implemented at national and international levels, and what challenges arise in this regard. The course is organized in three modules. The first module (Stefan Bechtold) examines basic concepts and the role of law, law-making, and law enforcement in modern societies. The second module (Thomas Bernauer) deals with the functioning of legislatures, governments, and interest groups. The third module (Frank Schimmelfennig) focuses on the European Union and international organisations.
ContentSchedule (for up-to-date information, see the syllabus that will be distributed to participants electronically):
W1: Bechtold, Bernauer: Introduction
How are laws created and interpreted? How are they enforced?
W2: Bechtold: Why do we need laws and why do people and firms usually obey the law? What are possible goals of legal systems? What is the relationship between laws, social norms, and moral values?
W3: Bechtold: What role does scientific evidence play in the creation and enforcement of the law? How does the law deal with non-quantifiable factors or incommensurable values?
W4: no class
W5: Bernauer: How are parliaments (legislatures) elected, how do they work, and how do their characteristics and processes affect policy-making?
W6: Bernauer: Why do forms of government differ and how does this affect policy-making? Why and in what respect are public administrations efficient/effective, and why sometimes not?
W7: Bernauer: How do interest groups and social movements affect policy-making.
W8: Study week
W9: Schimmelfennig: Governance beyond the state: why and how states create international institutions.
W10: Schimmelfennig: International organizations and regimes: case studies of global governance.
W11: Schimmelfennig: Institutions and policy-making in the European Union.
W12: Schimmelfennig: International organizations and policy diffusion.
W13: End-of-semester exam

An add-on module to this course (3 ECTS) involves an essay. This part of the course is accessible only to ISTP MSc students and requires enrollement in the main course (3 ECTS). ISTP MSc students must enrol in both parts. Other students can only enrol in the main course.
3rd week of January: deadline for review essay
Lecture notesReading materials will be distributed electronically to the students when the semester starts.
LiteratureBaylis, John, Steve Smith, and Patricia Owens (2014): The Globalization of World Politics. An Introduction to International Relations. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Caramani, Daniele (ed.) (2014): Comparative Politics. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

European Court of Justice (2013): ITV Broadcasting Ltd. and Others v. TV Catch Up Ltd., Case C-607/11, March 7, 2013, EU:C:2013:147.

Federal Communications Commission (2015): Protecting and Promoting the Open Internet, 80 Federal Register 19738-19847.

Gilardi, Fabrizio (2012): Transnational Diffusion: Norms, Ideas, and Policies, in Carlsnaes, Walter, Thomas Risse and Beth Simmons, Handbook of International Relations, 2nd Edition, London: Sage, pp. 453-477.

Hage, Jaap and Bram Akkermans (eds.) (2014): Introduction to Law, Heidelberg: Springer, available as an ebook at ETH library.

Jolls, Christine (2013): Product Warnings, Debiasing, and Free Speech: The Case of Tobacco Regulation, Journal of Institutional and Theoretical Economics 169: 53-78.

Lelieveldt, Herman and Sebastiaan Princen (2011): The Politics of European Union. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Lessig, Lawrence (2006): Code and Other Laws of Cyberspace, Version 2.0, New York: Basic Books. Available at Link.

Schimmelfennig, Frank and Ulrich Sedelmeier (2004): Governance by Conditionality: EU Rule Transfer to the Candidate Countries of Central and Eastern Europe, in: Journal of European Public Policy 11(4): 669-687.

Shipan, Charles V. and Craig Volden (2012): Policy Diffusion: Seven Lessons for Scholars and Practitioners. Public Administration Review 72(6): 788-796.

Sunstein, Cass R. (2014): The Limits of Quantification, California Law Review 102: 1369-1422.

Thaler, Richard H. and Cass R. Sunstein (2003): Libertarian Paternalism. American Economic Review: Papers & Proceedings 93: 175-179.

U.S. Supreme Court (2014): American Broadcasting Companies, Inc. v. Aereo, Inc., 134 S.Ct. 2498.
Prerequisites / NoticeThis is a Master level course. The course is capped at 25 students, with ISTP Master students having priority.
851-0595-01LInternational OrganizationsW3 credits2SZ. Bakaki
AbstractThis course offers a comprehensive examination of the role of international organizations (IOs) in world politics. Besides teaching the basic theories and methods that are necessary for studying IOs, this course considers the application of those theories and methods to a range of special institutions.
ObjectiveThe first part of this course offers an introduction and will seek to explain how, if at all, IOs obtain some measure of authority in international affairs, i.e., why states delegate certain tasks to IOs instead of dealing unilaterally or multilaterally outside of an institutional context. The second part of the course focuses on the impact and effectiveness of international institutions. We assess whether and how IOs influence state compliance with agreements, and whether IOs socialize states to behave in certain ways. The third and final part of the course examines a special set of IOs: international alliances and international regimes, i.e., explicit principles, norms, rules, and decision-making procedures that define expected behavior in a specific problem field.
ContentThe requirements for the course include participation in class discussions (10%), one class presentation (30%), and a final exam (60%).

a) Participation: The quality of students' experience in this course depends on the participation of students. Regular attendance and active class participation constitute a significant portion of the course grade. Students will be expected to read the required readings, think critically about them, and discuss them in class.

b) Class Presentation: First, you will submit one short (maximum 2 pages) paper summarizing the readings for a particular week. This short paper should be distributed to the class ahead of the meeting time (email, at least 24 hours in advance). Each student writing such a paper must also prepare a short class presentation. The goal of this exercise is not simply to summarize the assigned readings, as others in the class will already be familiar with the assignment. Rather, a good summary discusses the broader issues, themes, and questions underlying the readings or identifies problems with research design or potential flaws in the particular articles. The paper(s) and presentation(s) serve as a starting point for a more focused in-class discussion.

c) Final exam: The final examination will take place at the last week of the course. It lasts 1.5 hours, during which you will be required to answer 3 questions out of 9 questions.
Psychology, Pedagogics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0240-00LHuman Learning (EW1)
This lecture is only apt for students who intend to enrol in the programs "Teaching Diploma" or "Teaching Certificate". It is about learning in childhood and adolescence.
W2 credits2GE. Stern
AbstractThis course looks into scientific theories and also empirical
studies on human learning and relates them to the school.
ObjectiveAnyone wishing to be a successful teacher must first of all understand the learning process. Against this background, theories and findings on the way humans process information and on human behaviour are prepared in such a manner that they can be used for planning and conducting lessons. Students additionally gain an understanding of what is going on in learning and behavioural research so that teachers are put in a position where they can further educate themselves in the field of research into teaching and learning.
ContentThematische Schwerpunkte:
Lernen als Verhaltensänderung und als Informationsverarbeitung; Das menschliche Gedächtnis unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der Verarbeitung symbolischer Information; Lernen als Wissenskonstruktion und Kompetenzerwerb unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Wissenstransfers; Lernen durch Instruktion und Erklärungen; Die Rolle von Emotion und Motivation beim Lernen; Interindividuelle Unterschiede in der Lernfähigkeit und ihre Ursachen: Intelligenztheorien, Geschlechtsunterschiede beim Lernen

Lernformen:
Theorien und wissenschaftliche Konstrukte werden zusammen mit ausgewählten wissenschaftlichen Untersuchungen in Form einer Vorlesung präsentiert. Die Studierenden vertiefen nach jeder Stunde die Inhalte durch die Bearbeitung von Aufträgen in einem elektronischen Lerntagebuch. Über die Bedeutung des Gelernten für den Schulalltag soll reflektiert werden. Ausgewählte Tagebucheinträge werden zu Beginn jeder Vorlesung thematisiert.
Lecture notesFolien werden zur Verfügung gestellt.
Literature1) Marcus Hasselhorn & Andreas Gold (2006). Pädagogische Psychologie: Erfolgreiches Lernen und Lehren. Stuttgart: Kohlhammer. 2) Jeanne Omrod (2006): Human Learning. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Prentice Hall.
Prerequisites / NoticeThis lecture is only apt for students who intend to enrol in the programs "Lehrdiplom" or "Didaktisches Zertifikat". It is about learning in childhood and adolescence.
851-0252-01LHuman-Computer Interaction: Cognition and Usability Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 30.

Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-INFK, D-ITET
W3 credits2SI. Barisic, C. Hölscher, S. Ognjanovic
AbstractThis seminar introduces theory and methods in human-computer interaction and usability. Cognitive Science provides a theoretical framework for designing user interfaces as well as a range of methods for assessing usability (user testing, cognitive walkthrough, GOMS). The seminar will provide an opportunity to experience some of the methods in applied group projects.
ObjectiveThis seminar will introduce key topics, theories and methodology in human-computer interaction (HCI) and usability. Presentations will cover basics of human-computer interaction and selected topics like mobile interaction, adaptive systems, human error and attention. A focus of the seminar will be on getting to know evaluation techniques in HCI. Students form work groups that first familiarize themselves with a select usability evaluation method (e.g. user testing, GOMS, task analysis, heuristic evaluation, questionnaires or Cognitive Walkthrough). They will then apply the methods to a human-computer interaction setting (e.g. an existing software or hardware interface) and present the method as well as their procedure and results to the plenary. Active participation is vital for the success of the seminar, and students are expected to contribute to presentations of foundational themes, methods and results of their chosen group project. In order to obtain course credit a written essay / report will be required (details to be specified in the introductory session of the course).
851-0252-03LCognition in Architecture - Designing Orientation and Navigation for Building Users Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 40.

Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH
W3 credits2SV. Schinazi, B. Emo Nax, C. Hölscher
AbstractHow can behavioral and cognitive science inform architecture? This project-oriented seminar investigates contributions of cognitive science to architectural design with an emphasis on orientation and navigation in complex buildings and urban settings. It includes theories on spatial memory and decision-making as well as hands-on observations of behavior in real and virtual reality.
ObjectiveTaking the perspectives of building users (occupants and visitors) is vital for a human-centered design approach. Students will learn about relevant theory and methods in cognitive science and environmental psychology that can be used to understand human behavior in built environments. The foundations of environmental psychology and human spatial cognition will be introduced. A focus of the seminar will be on how people perceive their surroundings, how they orient in a building, how they memorize the environment and how they find their way from A to B. Students will also learn about a range of methods including real-world observation, virtual reality experiments, eye-tracking and behavior simulation for design. Students will reflect on the roles of designers and other stakeholders with respect to human-centered design and an evidence-based design perspective. The seminar is geared towards a mix of students from architecture / planning, engineering, computer science and behavioral science as well as anybody interested in the relation between design and cognition. Architecture students can obtain course credit in "Vertiefungsfach" or "Wahlfach"
851-0252-04LBehavioral Studies Colloquium Information W2 credits2KE. Stern, H.‑D. Daniel, D. Helbing, C. Hölscher, B. Rütsche, R. Schubert, C. Stadtfeld
AbstractThis colloquium offers an opportunity for students to discuss their ongoing research and scientific ideas in the behavioral sciences, both at the micro- and macro-levels of cognitive, behavioral and social science. It also offers an opportunity for students from other disciplines to discuss their research ideas in relation to behavioral science. The colloquium also features invited research talks.
ObjectiveStudents know and can apply autonomously up-to-date investigation methods and techniques in the behavioral sciences. They achieve the ability to develop their own ideas in the field and to communicate their ideas in oral presentations and in written papers. The credits will be obtained by a written report of approximately 10 pages.
ContentThis colloquium offers an opportunity for students to discuss their ongoing research and scientific ideas in the behavioral sciences, both at the micro- and macro-levels of cognitive, behavioral and social science. It also offers an opportunity for students from other disciplines to discuss their ideas in so far as they have some relation to behavioral science. The possible research areas are wide and may include theoretical as well as empirical approaches in Social Psychology and Research on Higher Education, Sociology, Modeling and Simulation in Sociology, Decision Theory and Behavioral Game Theory, Economics, Research on Learning and Instruction, Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Science. Ideally the students (from Bachelor, Master, Ph.D. and Post-Doc programs) have started to start work on their thesis or on any other term paper.
Course credit can be obtained either based on a talk in the colloquium plus a written essay, or by writing an essay about a topic related to one of the other talks in the course. Students interested in giving a talk should contact the course organizers (Rütsche, Stern) before the first session of the semester. Priority will be given to advanced / doctoral students for oral presentations. The course credits will be obtained by a written report of approximately 10 pages. The colloquium also serves as a venue for invited talks by researchers from other universities and institutions related to behavioral and social sciences.
851-0253-03LThe Sense of Time and its Effects on Motivation, Cognition, and Emotion Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 45.
W2 credits2SK. Stocker
AbstractWhile time is studied prominently in physics, it is also an integral part of our mind. Some of the main parameters of our sense of time are time immersion, time specificity, time speed, time texture, time horizon, time motion, time embodiment, and lifetime localization. Our sense of time can (often unconsciously) have profound effects on our motivation, cognition, and emotion.
ObjectiveTo learn and understand how our sense of time influences our motivation, cognition, and emotion and to learn that our sense of time is malleable and can be influenced for the better. The course involves participating actively and regularly, reading articles, giving an oral presentation (in groups or individually), and writing a short paper.
851-0252-02LIntroduction to Cognitive Science Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 70.

Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET
W3 credits2VV. Schinazi, L. Konieczny, T. Thrash
AbstractThe lectures provide an overview of the foundations of cognitive science and investigate processes of human cognition, especially perception, learning, memory and reasoning. This includes a comparison of cognitive processes in humans and technical systems, especially with respect to knowledge acquisition, knowledge representation and usage in information processing tasks.
ObjectiveCognitive Science views human cognition as information processing and provides an inter-disciplinary integration of approaches from cognitive psychology, informatics (e.g., artificial intelligence), neuroscience and anthropology among others. The lectures provide an overview of basic mechanisms of human information processing and various application domains. A focus will be on matters of knowledge acquisition, representation and usage in humans and machines. Models of human perception, reasoning, memory and learning are presented and students will learn about experimental methods of investigating and understanding human cognitive processes and representation structures.
227-0802-01LSocial PsychologyW2 credits2GH.‑D. Daniel, R. Mutz
AbstractThe lecture covers the following main topics: Social perception and interpersonal judgement; attitudes; group dynamics and group performance; leadership behavior and leadership styles.
ObjectiveThe aim of the lecture is to impart a well-founded scientific understanding of social influence processes in individuals, groups, organizations, and social settings.
The participants should develop competencies in the structuring of communication, interaction, and management processes.
ContentIm Einzelnen sollen die Teilnehmerinnen und Teilnehmer lernen:

- an den Beispielen von Kaufverhalten oder ökologischem Verhalten zu beschreiben, wie Normen und Einstellungen Einfluss auf das Verhalten nehmen,
- Die Subjektivität und die Fehlerquellen sozialer Wahrnehmung verstehen,
- Prinzipien der Psychologie der Kommunikation zu nutzen für eine Verbesserung der Kommunikation in Studium und Beruf,
- Merkmale und Strukturen von Gruppen zu identifizieren und mit geeigneten Methoden zu analysieren,
- Die Grundlagen von Konformität und Gehorsam gegenüber Autoritäten zu erkennen,
- Gruppenphänomene wie „soziales Faulenzen“, „Risiko- und Konservatismus-Schub“ und „Gruppendenken“ entgegenzuwirken,
- Gruppenleistungen und -–entscheidungen zu optimieren,
- Führungsstile zu unterscheiden lernen,
- Techniken zur Moderation von interagierenden Gruppen kennen zu lernen.
Lecture noteskein Skript
Literaturezur Einführung: Stroebe, W., Jonas, K. & Hewstone, M. (2014). Sozialpsychologie. Heidelberg: Springer. Es wird ein Reader mit ausgewählten Texten zu den Vorlesungsthemen angeboten.
Prerequisites / NoticeEs werden für D-ITET-Studierende Gruppenarbeiten (6 Kreditpunkte) in Form eines 3-tätigen computer-unterstützten Assessments fachübergreifender Kompetenzen angeboten (Teilnehmerzahl beschränkt auf 12 Studierende). Die Teilnehmenden verfassen Berichte, die benotet werden.
363-0311-00LPsychological Aspects of Risk Management and Technology Information Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 65.
W3 credits2VG. Grote, J. Schmutz, R. Schneider, M. Zumbühl
AbstractUsing uncertainty management by organizations and individuals as conceptual framework, risk management and risk implications of new technologies are treated. Three components of risk management (risk identification/evaluation, risk mitigation, risk communication) and underlying psychological and organizational processes are discussed, using company case studies to promote in-depth understanding.
Objective- understand basic components of risk management in organizations
- know and apply methods for risk identification/evaluation, risk mitigation, risk communication
- know psychological foundations of risk perception, decision-making under risk, and risk communication
- know organizational principles for managing uncertainty
- apply theoretical foundations to applied issues such as safety management, regulatory activities, and technology design and implementation in different domains (e.g. transport systems, IT, insurance)
ContentThe syllabus includes the following topics:
Elements of risk management
- risk identification and evaluation
- risk mitigation
- risk communication
Psychological and organizational concepts relevant in risk management
- decision-making under uncertainty
- risk perception
- resilient organizational processes for managing uncertainty
Case studies on different elements of risk management (e.g., rule making, training, managing project risks, automation)
Group projects related to company case studies
Lecture notesThere is no scirpt, but slides will be made available before the lectures.
LiteratureThere are texts for each of the course topics made available before the lectures.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe course is restricted to 40 participants who will work closely with the lecturers on case studies prepared by the lecturers on topics relevant in their own companies (Swiss Re, Skyguide, Swisscom).
701-0721-00LPsychologyW3 credits2VR. Hansmann, C. Keller, M. Siegrist
AbstractThis course provides an introduction to psychological research and modelling, focusing on cognitive psychology and the psychological experiment. Participants learn to formulate problems for psychological investigation and apply basic forms of psychological experiment.
ObjectiveStudents are able to
- describe the areas, concepts, theories, methods and findings of psychology.
- differentate scientific psychology from "everyday" psychology.
- structure the conclusions and significance of an experiment. according to a theory of psychology.
- formulate a problem for psychological investigation.
- apply basic forms of psychological experiment.
ContentEinführung in die psychologische Forschung und Modellbildung unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der kognitiven Psychologie und des psychologischen Experiments. Themen sind u.a.: Wahrnehmung; Lernen und Entwicklung; Denken und Problemlösen; Kognitive Sozialpsychologie; Risiko und Entscheidung.
851-0252-08LCognition in Studio Design - Analytic Tools for Evidence-Based Design Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 25.
W3 credits2SB. Emo Nax, M. Brösamle, C. Hölscher
AbstractHow can Behavioral and Cognitive Science inform architecture? In this project-oriented course, students are introduced to cognitive and analytical methods to evaluate their design projects. Existing theories are introduced and complemented with hands-on sessions, in which students learn how to implement a range of methods. The course is tailored for students from relevant design studios.
ObjectiveTaking the perspectives of the end user (occupants and visitors) is vital for a human-centered design approach. Students will learn about relevant theory and methods in cognitive science and environmental psychology that can be used to address human cognitive and behavioral needs in built environments. The foundations of environmental psychology and human spatial cognition will be introduced. A focus of the course will be on how people perceive their surroundings and orient in space. Students will learn about a range of methods including real-world observation, and methods of architectural analysis such as space syntax. Students will also be exposed to behavior simulation in design, virtual reality experiments, and eye-tracking. Students will reflect the roles of designers and other stakeholders with respect to human-centered design as well as an evidence-based design perspective. The course is tailored for students from a relevant design studio. Upon registering, students should send an email about their design studio to Link. As an alternative to obtaining D-GESS credit, architecture students can obtain course credit in "Vertiefungsfach" or "Wahlfach".
851-0238-01LSupport and Diagnosis of Knowledge Acquisition Processes (EW3) Restricted registration - show details
Enrolment only possible with matriculation in Teaching Diploma (except for students of Sport Teaching Diploma, who complete the sport-specific course unit EW3) and for students who intend to enrol in the "Teaching Diploma".
Prerequisites: successful participation in 851-0240-00L "Human Learning (EW1)".
W3 credits3SL. Schalk, P. Edelsbrunner, S. Hofer
AbstractIn this seminar students learn advanced techniques to support and to diagnose knowledge acquisition processes in school.
ObjectiveThe main goals are:
(1) You have a deep understanding about the cognitive mechanisms of knowledge acquisition.
(2) You have a basic understanding about psychological test theory and can appropriately administer tests.
(3) You know various techniques of formative assessment and can apply these to uncover students' misconceptions.
Prerequisites / NoticeFür eine reibungslose Semesterplanung wird um persönliches Erscheinen zum ersten Lehrveranstaltungstermin ersucht.
Law
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0703-00LIntroduction to Law
Students who have attended or will attend the lecture "Introduction to Law for Civil Engineering and Architecture " or " Introduction to Law" (851-0708-00) , cannot register for this course unit.

Particularly suitable for students of D-MAVT, D-MATL
W2 credits2VO.  Streiff Gnöpff
AbstractThis class introduces students into basic features of the legal system. Fundamental issues of constitutional law, administrative law, private law and the law of the EU are covered.
ObjectiveStudents are able to identify basic structures of the legal system. They unterstand selected topics of public and private law and are able to apply the fundamentals in more advanced law classes.
ContentBasic concepts of law, sources of law.
Private law: Contract law (particularly contract for work and services), tort law, property law.
Public law: Human rights, administrative law, procurement law, procedural law.
Insights into the law of the EU and into criminal law.
Lecture notesJaap Hage, Bram Akkermans (Eds.), Introduction to Law, Cham 2014 (Online Resource ETH Library)
LiteratureFurther documents will be available online (see Link).
851-0705-02LEnvironmental Law: Topics and Case Studies Restricted registration - show details
Does not take place this semester.
Number of participants limited to 20.

Prerequisites: Environmental Law: Conceptions and Fields (851-0705-01L) offered in spring semester.

Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-BAUG, D-USYS
W2 credits2SC. Jäger
AbstractThis workshop offers to the students the opportunity to intensify their environmental legal knowledge on the basis of individual topics or cases of their respective programme or professional interest in a guided self-study. They develop a better understanding for the practical application of legal regulations on environmental matters.
ObjectiveThe aim of this workshop is to equip students with legal skills and methods to solve or treat problems and questions of the environmental law and foster the understanding on the possibilities and limits of legal problem-solving. The students choose an inquiry with practical relevance. To this end they work out the legal basis demonstrating a legal correct solution or approach to a solution. In doing so, students will get to know legal methods and research possibilities.
ContentAt the beginning of the workshop the students are introduced to the legal methods and sources as well as in the aim and the process of the workshop. The participants will organize themselves in a team of two persons giving themselves an inquiry on topics of the environmental law. It is also possible to choose questions at the interfaces of e.g. zoning law, energy law, transport law. A proposal, which will be presented to the lecturer, as well as an optional Q&A-session in class will facilitate the start. Next the working on topics will follow by self-study. The results will be presented in form of a memo/paper with a maximum of ten pages (excluding graphs and tables). At the end of the workshop, a presentation of ten minutes will be made to the plenum including a question-and-answer session . Class language will be German.
Lecture notesDen Studierenden werden Unterlagen zur juristischen Metoden- und Quellenlehre sowie zum Inhalt und Ablauf des Kurses zu Beginn der Veranstaltung kostenlos abgegeben.
LiteratureRechtsgrundlagen, Literatur und Gerichtsentscheide werden themenspezifisch selber rechechiert, unter Mithilfe und Beratung des Dozenten.
Prerequisites / NoticeDie Veranstaltung erfordert die Bereitschaft, sich aktiv und selbständig mit einer selbstgewählten Fragestellung oder einem eigenen Fallbeispiel aus dem Gebiet des Umweltrechts und allenfalls aus Schnittstellengebieten auseinanderzusetzen. Damit die Interaktivität und die Begleitung der Teams gewährleistet werden kann, ist die Teilnehmerzahl auf maximal 16 Personen beschränkt. Es handelt sich um eine Vertiefungsveranstaltung. Der Besuch der Vorlesung "Umweltrecht: Konzepte und Rechtsgebiete" (851-0705-01) ist Voraussetzung.
851-0707-00LSpace Planning Law and Environment
Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-BAUG, D-USYS
W2 credits2GO. Bucher
AbstractSystem of swiss planning law,
Constitutional and statutory provisions,
Space planning and fundamental rights,
Instruments,
Application, legal protection, enforcement,
Practical training.
ObjectiveBasic unterstanding of nature and function of space planning from a legal point of view. Basic knowledge of space planning instruments, relationship between space planning and constitutional law (especially property rights), solving of practical cases.
ContentDie Vorlesung basiert wesentlich auf der Mitwirkung der Studenten. Es finden 3 Sitzungen im Hörsaal statt, in welchen sich in der Praxis stellende Probleme erörtert werden. Die Vorbereitung auf die jeweiligen Sitzungen erfolgt an Hand von Fallbearbeitungen und einem Selbststudium an Hand des Lehrbuchs zum Raumplanungs- und Baurecht. Lösen von drei Aufgaben (praktischen Fällen) mit je genügender Leistung für die Erlangung der KP. Als Lernhilfe werden Anleitungen und insbesondere ein Musterfall mit Musterlösung zur Verfügung gestellt.
Lecture notesHaller, Walter/Karlen, Peter, Raumplanung-, Bau- und Umweltrecht, 3.A., Zürich 1999

Hänni, Peter, Planungs-, Bau- und besonderes Umweltschutzrecht, 6.A., Bern 2016
851-0709-00LIntroduction to Civil LawW2 credits2VH. Peter
AbstractThe course Private Law focuses on the Swiss Code of Obligations (contracts, torts) and on Property Law (ownership, mortgage and easements). In addition, the course will provide a short overview of Civil Procedure and Enforcement.
ObjectiveEnseignement des principes du droit, en particulier du droit privé. Introduction au droit.
ContentLe cours de droit civil porte notamment sur le droit des obligations (droit des contrats et responsabilité civile) et sur les droits réels (propriété, gages et servitudes). De plus, il est donné un bref aperçu du droit de la procédure et de l'exécution forcée.
LiteratureEditions officielles récentes des lois fédérales, en langue française (Code civil et Code des obligations) ou italienne (Codice civile e Codice delle obbligazioni), disponibles auprès de la plupart des librairies.

Sont indispensables:
- le Code civil et le Code des obligations;
Sont conseillés:
- Nef, Urs Ch.: Le droit des obligations à l'usage des ingénieurs et des architectes, trad. Bovay, J., éd. Payot, Lausanne
- Scyboz, G. et. Gilliéron, P.-R, éd.: Edition annotée du Code civil et du Code des obligations, Payot, Lausanne, et Helbing & Lichtenhahn,
- Boillod, J.-P.: Manuel de droit, éd Slatkine, Genève
- Biasio, G./Foglia, A.: Introduzione ai codici di diritto privato svizzero, ed. Giappichelli, Torino
Prerequisites / NoticeRemarques
- Le cours de droit civil et le cours de droit public (2e sem.) sont l'équivalent des cours "Recht I" et "Recht II" en langue allemande et des exercices y relatifs.
- Les examens peuvent se faire en français ou en italien.
- Examen au 1er propédeutique; convient pour travail de semestre.
851-0727-02LE-Business-Law
Particularly suitable for students of D-INFK, D-ITET
W2 credits2VD. Rosenthal
AbstractThe course deals with the basic legal framework for doing e-business as well as using information technology. It discusses a variety of legal concepts and rules to be taken into account in practice, be it when designing and planning new media business models, be it when implementing online projects and undertaking information technology activities.
ObjectiveThe objective is knowing and understanding key legal concepts relevant for doing e-business, in particularly understanding how e-business is regulated by law nationally and internationally, how contracts are concluded and performed electronically, which rules have to be obeyed in particular in the Internet with regard to third party and own content and client data, the concept of liability applied in e-business and the role of the law in the practical implementation and operation of e-business applications.
ContentVorgesehene Strukturierung der Vorlesung:

1) Welches Recht gilt im E-Business?
–Internationalität des Internets
–Regulierte Branchen

2) Gestaltung und Vermarktung von E-Business-Angeboten
Verwendung fremder und Schutz der eigenen Inhalte
–Haftung im E-Business (und wie sie beschränkt werden kann)
–Domain-Namen

3) Beziehung zu E-Business-Kunden
–Verträge im E-Business, Konsumentenschutz
–Elektronische Signaturen
–Datenschutz
Spam

4) Verträge mit E-Business-Providern

Änderungen, Umstellungen und Kürzungen bleiben vorbehalten. Der aktuelle Termin- und Themenplan ist zu gegebener Zeit über die elektronische Dokumentenablage abrufbar (Link).
Lecture notesEs wird mit Folien gearbeitet, die als PDF über die elektronische Dokumentenablage (ILIAS) auf dem System der ETHZ vorgängig abrufbar sind. Auf dem Termin- und Themenplan (ebenfalls online abrufbar) sind Links zu Gesetzestexten und weiteren Unterlagen abrufbar. Schliesslich wird jede Vorlesung auch als Podcast aufgezeichnet, der jedoch nur für die Studierenden mit einem Passwort (erhältlich beim Dozenten) zugänglich sind.

Der Termin- und Themenplan ist zu gegebener Zeit über die elektronische Dokumentenablage abrufbar (Link).
LiteratureWeiterführende Materialien, Links und Literatur sind auf dem Termin- und Themenplan aufgeführt (zu gegebener Zeit abrufbar via elektronische Dokumentenablage, Link).
Prerequisites / NoticeDie Semesterendprüfung ist in Form eines schriftlichen Kurztests (normalerweise MC) in voraussichtlich der letzten Doppelstunde geplant. Es wird angegeben, welche Unterlagen beim jeweiligen Thema den Prüfungsstoff definieren. Der Test wird möglicherweise elektronisch durchgeführt.

Ergänzend zu dieser Vorlesung bietet Clemens von Zedtwitz (alternierend) eine Vorlesung zum Thema Telekommunikationsrecht an. Sie befasst sich mit den rechtlichen Grundlagen der Bereitstellung und des Betriebs von Telekommunikationsnetzen. Neben einem geschichtlichen Überblick über die Entwicklung des Telekommunikationsrechts werden die rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen erläutert, welche für Netzbetreiber in der Schweiz, der EU und den USA massgeblich sind.

Ferner bietet Ursula Widmer eine Vorlesung zum Thema Informationssicherheit an, welche die rechtlichen Aspekte der Sicherheit von ICT-Infrastrukturen und Netzen und der transportierten und verarbeiteten Informationen.
851-0733-00LTraffic Law / Traffic Commercial LawW2 credits2GS. Scherler
AbstractWithin the scope of the lecture "Traffic Law / Traffic Commercial Law", besides an introduction into the legal basis of the national and international traffic, the main interest will be laid on actual political and economical questions and problems with respect to traffic (e.g. financing of traffic, road pricing, rail reform, air traffic vs. environment law etc.).
ObjectiveParticipants are acquiring a comprehensive summary about the system „Traffic Law/Traffic Commercial Law“ in Switzerland. With practical exercises and subsequent detailed reviews themes and subjects of special interest to participants are being treated more thoroughly.
ContentWithin the scope of the lecture "Traffic Law / Traffic Commercial Law", besides an introduction into the legal basis of the national and international traffic, the main interest will be laid on actual political and economical questions and problems with respect to traffic (e.g. financing of traffic, road pricing, rail reform, air traffic vs. environment law etc.). With practical exercises and subsequent detailed reviews themes and subjects of special interest to participants are being treated more thoroughly.
Lecture notesScript will be distributed during the lecture.
851-0735-10LBusiness Law
Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET, D-MAVT
W2 credits2VP. Peyrot
AbstractThe students shall obtain a basic knowledge about business law. They shall be able to recognize and evaluate issues in the area of business law and suggest possible solutions.
ObjectiveThe students shall obtain the following competence:
- They shall obtain a working knowledge on the legal aspects involved in setting up and managing an enterprize.
- They shall be acquainted with corporate functions as contracting, negotiation, claims management and dispute resolution
- They shall be familiar with the issues of corporate compliance, i.e. the system to ascertain that all legal and ethical rules are observed.
- They shall be able to contribute to the legal management of the company and to discuss legal issues.
- They shall have an understanding of the law as a part of the corporate strategy and as a valuable ressource of the company.
Lecture notesA comprehensive script will be made available online on the moodle platform.
851-0735-04LWorkshop and Lecture Series in Law and FinanceW2 credits2SG. Hertig
AbstractThe Workshop and Lectures Series in Law & Finance is a joint seminar of ETH Zurich, the University of Zurich and the University of St. Gallen. Each semester, several guest scholars from law, finance and related fields give a lecture and/or discuss their ongoing research. All speakers are internationally well-known experts from Europe, the U.S. and beyond.
ObjectiveThe Lecture and Workshop Series in Law & Finance aims at allowing participants to discuss current financial regulation and corporate governance issues with leading academics.
ContentParticipants discuss current Law & Finance issues with guest scholars from Europe and the U.S. In addition, participants write a comment on one of the discussed papers.
Lecture notesTo be discussed papers are posted in advance on the course's web page
Literature- Benefit-Cost Analysis of Financial Regulation, Conference Issue, 43(2) Journal of Legal Studies 2014
- Andrei Shleifer, The Failure of Judges and the Rise of Regulators (MIT Press 2012)
- Viral Acharya et al., Regulating Wall Street (Wiley 2011)
- Raghuram G. Rajan, Fault Lines (Princeton University Press 2010)
- Reinier Kraakman et al., The Anatomy of Corporate Law. A Comparative and Functional Approach (2d ed., Oxford University Press 2009)
- Curtis J. Milhaupt and Katharina Pistor, Law and Capitalism (University of Chicago Press, 2008)
- Jean Tirole, The Theory of Corporate Finance (Princeton University Press, 2006)
851-0735-09LWorkshop & Lecture Series on the Law & Economics of Innovation Information W2 credits2SS. Bechtold, H. Gersbach, A. Heinemann
AbstractThis series is a joint project by ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich. It provides an overview of interdisciplinary research on intellectual property, innovation, antitrust and technology policy. Scholars from law, economics, management and related fields give a lecture and/or present their current research. All speakers are internationally well-known experts from Europe, the U.S. and beyond.
ObjectiveAfter the workshop and lecture series, participants should be acquainted with interdisciplinary approaches towards intellectual property, innovation, antitrust and technology policy research. They should also have an overview of current topics of international research in these areas.
ContentThe workshop and lecture series will present a mix of speakers who represent the wide range of current social science research methods applied to intellectual property, innovation, antitrust policy and technology policy issues. In particular, theoretical models, empirical and experimental research as well as legal research methods will be represented.
Lecture notesPapers discussed in the workshop and lecture series are posted in advance on the course web page.
LiteratureWilliam Landes / Richard Posner, The Economic Structure of Intellectual Property Law, 2003
Suzanne Scotchmer, Innovation and Incentives, 2004
Peter Menell / Suzanne Scotchmer: Intellectual Property Law, in: Polinsky / Shavell (eds.), Handbook of Law and Economics, Volume 2, Amsterdam 2007, pp. 1471-1570
Bronwyn Hall / Nathan Rosenberg (eds.), Handbook of the Economics of Innovation, 2 volumes, Amsterdam 2010
Bronwyn Hall / Dietmar Harhoff, Recent Research on the Economics of Patents, 2011
Robert Litan (ed.), Handbook on Law, Innovation and Growth, Cheltenham 2011
Paul Belleflamme / Martin Peitz, Industrial Organization: Markets and Strategies, Cambridge 2010
Einer Elhauge / Damien Geradin, Global Competition Law and Economics, 2007
Dennis Carlton / Jeffrey Perloff, Modern Industrial Organization, 4th edition, 2004
Martin Peitz / Joel Waldfogel, The Oxford Handbook of the Digital Economy, Oxford 2012
September 2013 issue of the Journal of Industrial Economics, available at Link
Stefan Bechtold, Law and Economics of Copyright and Trademark on the Internet, in: Durlauf/Blume (eds.), The New Palgrave Dictionary of Economics, online edition, Palgrave Macmillan, 2013, available at Link
Robert Merges, Economics of Intellectual Property Law, forthcoming 2015 in Parisi (ed.), Oxford Handbook of Law & Economics, available at Link
851-0735-11LEnvironmental Regulation: Law and Policy Restricted registration - show details
Does not take place this semester.
The course will be offered again in the spring semester 2017.

Number of participants limited to 15.

Particularly suitable for students of D-USYS
W3 credits1S
AbstractThe aim of this course is to make students with a technical scientific background aware of the legal and political context of environmental policy in order to place technical solutions in their regulatory context.
ObjectiveThe aim of this course is to equip students with a legal and regulatory skill-set that allows them to translate their technical knowledge into a policy brief directed at legally trained regulators. More generally, it aims to inform students with a technical scientific background of the legal and political context of environmental policy. The focus of the course will be on international and European issues and regulatory frameworks - where relevant, the position of Switzerland within these international networks will also be discussed.
ContentTopics covered in lectures:

(1) Environmental Regulation
a. Perspectives
b. Regulatory Challenges of Environment Problems
c. Regulatory Tools
(2) Law: International, European and national laws
a. International law
b. European law
c. National law
(3) Policy: Case studies

Assessment:
(i) Class participation (25%): Students will be expected to contribute to class discussions and prepare short memos on class readings.
(ii) Exam (75%) consisting of three parts:
a. Policy brief - a maximum of 2 pages (including graphs and tables);
b. Background document to the policy brief - this document sets out a more detailed and academic overview of the topic (maximum 8 pages including graphs and tables);
c. Presentation of the policy brief: presentations can use a maximum of 5 slides and can last 7 minutes.
Lecture notesThe course is taught as a small interactive seminar and significant participation is expected from the students. Participation will be capped at 15 in order to maintain the interactive nature of the classes. All classes, readings, and assignments, are in English.

Teaching will take place over two weeks in September and October. The exam date will be in December.

During the second week of the teaching period, students will have individual 30-minute meetings with the lecturer to discuss their project.
LiteratureAn electronic copy of relevant readings will be provided to the students at no cost before the start of the lectures.
Prerequisites / NoticeNo specific pre-existing legal knowledge is required, however all students must have successfully completed Grundzüge des Rechts (851-0708-00 V) or an equivalent course.

The course is (inter)related to materials discussed in Politikwissenschaft: Grundlagen (851-0577-00 V), Ressourcen- und Umweltökonomie (751-1551-00 V), Umweltrecht: Konzepte und Rechtsgebiete (851-0705-01 V), Rechtlicher Umgang mit natürlichen Ressourcen (701-0743-01 V), Environmental Governance (701-1651-00 G), Policy and Economics of Ecosystem Services (701-1653-00 G), International Environmental Politics: Part I (851-0594-00 V).
851-0738-00LIntellectual Property: Introduction
Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET, D-MAVT, D-MATL
W2 credits2VM. Schweizer
AbstractThe course provides an introduction to Swiss and European intellectual property law (trademarks, copyright, patent and design rights). Aspects of competition law are treated insofar as they are relevant for the protection of intellectual creations and source designations. The legal principles are developed based on current cases.
ObjectiveThe aim of this course is to enable students at ETH Zurich to recognize which rights may protect their creations, and which rights may be infringed as a result of their activities. Students should learn to assess the risks and opportunities of intellectual property rights in the development and marketing of new products. To put them in this position, they need to know the prerequisites and scope of protection afforded by the various intellectual property rights as well as the practical difficulties involved in the enforcement of intellectual property rights. This knowledge is imparted based on current rulings and cases.

Another goal is to enable the students to participate in the current debate over the goals and desirability of protecting intellectual creations, particularly in the areas of copyright (keywords: fair use, Creative Commons, Copyleft) and patent law (software patents, patent trolls, patent thickets).
851-0738-01LThe Role of Intellectual Property in Daily Routine: A Practical Introduction
Particularly suitable for students of D-BAUG, D-ITET, D-MAVT
W2 credits2VC. Soltmann
AbstractThe lecture gives an overview of the fundamental aspects of intellectual property, which plays an important role in the daily routine of engineers. The lecture aims to make participants aware of the various methods of protection and to put them in a position to use this knowledge in the workplace.
ObjectiveIn recent years, knowledge about intellectual property has become increasingly important for engineers. Both in production and distribution and in research and development, engineers are increasingly being confronted with questions concerning the patenting of technical inventions and the use of patent information.

The lecture will acquaint students with practical aspects of intellectual property and enable them to use the acquired knowledge in their future professional life.

Topics covered during the lecture will include:
- The importance of innovation in industrialised countries
- An overview of the different forms of intellectual property
- The protection of technical inventions and how to safeguard their commercialisation
- Patents as a source of technical and business information
- Practical aspects of intellectual property in day-to-day research, at the workplace and for the formation of start-ups.

Case studies will illustrate and deepen the topics addressed during the lecture.

The seminar will comprise practical exercises on how to use and search patent information. Basic knowledge of how to read and evaluate patent documents as well as how to use publicly available patent databases to obtain the required patent information will also be provided.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture is in particular tailored to the needs of the following degree programs: Agricultural science, architecture, civil engineering, computational science and engineering, computer science, electrical engineering and information technology, environmental engineering, geomatic engineering and planning, interdisciplinary sciences, materials science, mathematics, mechanical engineering, physics.

For students of chemistry-related degree programs, the lecture 'Protecting inventions in chemistry' (851-0738-03) will be offered in the autumn semester.
851-0738-03LProtecting Inventions in Chemistry
Particularly suitable for students of D-CHAB
W2 credits2VC. Soltmann
AbstractThe lecture gives students of chemistry-related degree programs an overview of the options to protect inventions and the underlying research efforts. The lecture aims to put the participants in a position to use this know-how in the workplace.
ObjectiveResearch and development play an important role in chemistry-related technology sectors such as inorganic and organic chemistry or pharmacy.

Investments in the development of new substances and active components in these sectors are traditionally secured by patents because publicly known inventions, generally chemical substances, may easily be reproduced by others.

In the last years, the know-how about intellectual property has become increasingly important for chemists and engineers. Both in the production process and in the distribution sector, chemists and engineers are increasingly being confronted with questions concerning the patenting of technical inventions and the use of patent information. As more than three-quarters of all publicly available technical information are available only in patents, it is more and more important for researchers and engineers to be capable of extracting relevant information from the flood of patents.

Patents are not only a powerful measure to protect investments and inventions in chemistry-related sectors but also an important source of information about competitors and potential cooperation partners and about the development of markets. Accordingly, the know-how about patents and patent information has become a key qualification on the strategic level in companies and in the research sector.

The seminar is customised to the needs of chemists and students of related degree programs. Participants will become familiar with practice-oriented aspects of intellectual property and will be enabled to use the acquired knowledge in their future professional life.

Topics covered during the lecture will include:
- The importance of innovation in industrialised countries
- An overview of the different forms of intellectual property
- The protection of technical inventions and how to safeguard their commercialisation
- Patents as a source of technical and business information
- Practical aspects of intellectual property in day-to-day research, at the workplace and for the formation of start-ups
- Special aspects of protecting inventions in chemistry-related sectors, e.g. polymorphs and inventions in the field of nanotechnology.

Case studies will illustrate and deepen the topics addressed during the lecture.

The seminar will comprise practical exercises on how to use and search patent information. Basic knowledge of how to read and evaluate patent documents as well as how to use publicly available patent databases to obtain the required patent information will also be provided.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture is coordinated in particular to the needs of the following degree programs: Agricultural science, biotechnology, chemical engineering, chemistry, food science, pharmaceutical sciences.

For engineering and physics students, the lecture 'The Role of Intellectual Property in daily routine: A Practical Introduction' (851-0738-01) will be offered in the autumn semester.
701-0743-01LLaw and Natural Resources
Does not take place this semester.
W2 credits2V
AbstractThis course teaches the possibilities and limits of the law in order to protect natural resources and landscapes against harm and nuisance. The learning concept is based on the co-ordinated implementation of the relevant legislations. The complexity of the legal situation will be discussed by analysing virtual and real law cases focused on spatial projects and planning.
ObjectiveThe students know the opportunities and restrictions which are given by the law when using natural resources. They have insights into the complex environmental legal system and their application in conrete cases. The students are able to formulate typical legal questions, to understand the argumentation of courts and to solve simple legal problems with respect to environmental problems.
ContentDie Studierenden werden eingeführt in die für die Nutzung natürlicher Ressourcen und die Gestaltung der Landschaft massgeblichen Rechtsgebiete und deren Interdependenz. Die teils ressourcenspezifischen, teils ressourcenübergreifenden rechtlichen Regelungen und deren Anwendung werden problemorientiert verdeutlicht. Anhand von Rechtsfällen werden praktische Fragen behandelt und grundsätzliche Handlungsansätze erörtert. Der Einzelfall wird dabei in den Gesamtzusammenhang gestellt. Charakteristische Schwierigkeiten, aber auch das Potenzial rechtlicher Lösungsansätze sowie typische Verfahrensabläufe sollen aufgezeigt werden. Der Kurs bietet eine Vertiefung in folgende Rechtsgebiete:
Waldrecht - Natur- und Landschaftsschutzrecht - Wasserrecht - Raumplanungsrecht - Umweltschutzrecht - Verfahrensrecht
Unterrichtssprache: Deutsch
Lecture notesDen Studierenden werden Unterlagen wie eine Übersicht über den behandelten Stoff auf PP-Folien, typische Gerichtsentscheide, Zeitungsartikel etc. über neue Vorhaben mit Auswirkungen auf die Umwelt und entsprechenden Rechtsfragen abgegeben.
LiteratureGriffel, A.; Raumplanungs- und Baurecht in a nutshell, Dike Verlag, Zürich/St. Gallen 2012
Rausch/Marti/Griffel; Umweltrecht – Ein Lehrbuch. Herausgeber: Walter Haller. Schulthess Verlag, Zürich 2004
Rausch, H.; Panorama des Umweltrechts - Kompendium der Umweltschutzvorschriften des Bundes, BUWAL-Schriftenreihe Umwelt Nr. 226, 4. A., Bern 2005
Seitz/Zimmermann; Bundesgesetz über den Hatur- und Heimatschutz NHG: Bunbdesgerichtliche Rechtsprechung 1997 - 2007. In URP 2008/2
Keel/Zimmermann; Bundesgerichtliche Rechtsprechung zur Waldgesetzgebung. In URP 2009/3
Griffel,A.: Raumplanungs-, Bau- und Umweltrecht. Entwicklungen 2007, Bern 2008
Umweltrecht in der Praxis URP (Juristische Fachzeitschrift für Umweltrechtsfragen, herausgegeben von der Vereinigung für Umweltrecht (VUR)
Weitere Literaturangaben erfolgen in der ersten Veranstaltung.
Prerequisites / NoticeDie Veranstaltung ist eine vorwiegend mit konkreten Beispielen arbeitende und auf natürliche Ressourcen, Landschaften und Raumordnung fokussierte Vertiefung. Die Studierenden können eigene "Fälle" aus dem persönlichen Umfeld einbringen. Der Besuch des Kurses "Umweltrecht: Konzepte und Rechtsgebiete" (851-0705-01) wird empfohlen.
Sociology
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0585-15LComplexity and Global Systems Science Information
Prerequisites: solid mathematical skills.
Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET, D-MAVT
W3 credits2VD. Helbing, N. Antulov-Fantulin
AbstractThis course discusses complex techno-socio-economic systems, their counter-intuitive behaviors, and how their theoretical understanding empowers us to solve some long-standing problems that are curently bothering the world.
ObjectiveParticipants should learn to get an overview of the state of the art in the field, to present it in a well understandable way to an interdisciplinary scientific audience, to develop models for open problems, to analyze them, and to defend their results in response to critical questions. In essence, participants should improve their scientific skills and learn to think scientifically about complex dynamical systems.
ContentThis course starts with a discussion of the typical and often counter-intuitive features of complex dynamical systems such as self-organization, emergence, (sudden) phase transitions at "tipping points", multi-stability, systemic instability, deterministic chaos, and turbulence. It then discusses phenomena in networked systems such as feedback, side and cascade effects, and the problem of radical uncertainty. The course progresses by demonstrating the relevance of these properties for understanding societal and, at times, global-scale problems such as traffic jams, crowd disasters, breakdowns of cooperation, crime, conflict, social unrests, political revolutions, bubbles and crashes in financial markets, epidemic spreading, and/or "tragedies of the commons" such as environmental exploitation, overfishing, or climate change. Based on this understanding, the course points to possible ways of mitigating techno-socio-economic-environmental problems, and what data science may contribute to their solution.
Prerequisites / NoticeMathematical skills can be helpful
851-0252-04LBehavioral Studies Colloquium Information W2 credits2KE. Stern, H.‑D. Daniel, D. Helbing, C. Hölscher, B. Rütsche, R. Schubert, C. Stadtfeld
AbstractThis colloquium offers an opportunity for students to discuss their ongoing research and scientific ideas in the behavioral sciences, both at the micro- and macro-levels of cognitive, behavioral and social science. It also offers an opportunity for students from other disciplines to discuss their research ideas in relation to behavioral science. The colloquium also features invited research talks.
ObjectiveStudents know and can apply autonomously up-to-date investigation methods and techniques in the behavioral sciences. They achieve the ability to develop their own ideas in the field and to communicate their ideas in oral presentations and in written papers. The credits will be obtained by a written report of approximately 10 pages.
ContentThis colloquium offers an opportunity for students to discuss their ongoing research and scientific ideas in the behavioral sciences, both at the micro- and macro-levels of cognitive, behavioral and social science. It also offers an opportunity for students from other disciplines to discuss their ideas in so far as they have some relation to behavioral science. The possible research areas are wide and may include theoretical as well as empirical approaches in Social Psychology and Research on Higher Education, Sociology, Modeling and Simulation in Sociology, Decision Theory and Behavioral Game Theory, Economics, Research on Learning and Instruction, Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Science. Ideally the students (from Bachelor, Master, Ph.D. and Post-Doc programs) have started to start work on their thesis or on any other term paper.
Course credit can be obtained either based on a talk in the colloquium plus a written essay, or by writing an essay about a topic related to one of the other talks in the course. Students interested in giving a talk should contact the course organizers (Rütsche, Stern) before the first session of the semester. Priority will be given to advanced / doctoral students for oral presentations. The course credits will be obtained by a written report of approximately 10 pages. The colloquium also serves as a venue for invited talks by researchers from other universities and institutions related to behavioral and social sciences.
851-0252-07LRecent Debates in Social Networks Research Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 30
W2 credits2SC. Stadtfeld, P. Block
AbstractSocial Networks research is a highly interdisciplinary fields. For example, scholars in Sociology, Psychology, Political Sciences, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics and Statistics contribute to the development of theories and methods. This course aims at understanding, comparing and structuring recent debates in the field of Social Networks.
ObjectiveSocial Networks research is a highly interdisciplinary fields. At the end of this seminar, students will understand and be able to compare different subject-specific approaches to social networks research (e.g., from Sociology, Psychology, Political Sciences, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics and Statistics). They will be familiar with recent publications in the field of Social Networks and be able to critically participate in a number of recent debates. Amongst others, these debates touch upon the co-evolution of selection and influence mechanisms, appropriateness of statistical models, generic mechanisms and features of social networks, models for the analysis of dynamic networks.
851-0585-04LLecture with Computer Exercises: Modelling and Simulating Social Systems with MATLAB Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 70.

Particularly suitable for students of D-MAVT, D-INFK, D-ITET, D-MTEC, D-PHYS.
W3 credits2SD. Helbing, L. Sanders, O. Woolley
AbstractThis course introduces the mathematical software package MATLAB.

Students should learn to implement models of various social processes
and systems, and document their skills by a seminar thesis, as well as giving a short oral presentation.
ObjectiveThe students should learn how to use MATLAB as a tool to solve
various scientific problems. MATLAB is an integrated environment with a high level programming language which makes it possible to quickly find numerical solutions to a wide range of scientific problems. Furthermore, it includes a rich set of tools for graphically
presenting the results.

After the students have learned the basic structure of the programming language, they should be able to implement social simulation models in MATLAB and document their skills by a seminar thesis and finally give a short oral presentation.
ContentThis course introduces first the basic functionalities and features of the mathematical software package MATLAB, such as the simple operations with matrices and vectors, differential equations, statistical tools, the graphical representation of data in various forms, and video animations of spatio-temporal data. With this knowledge, students are expected to implement themselves in MATLAB, models of various social processes and systems, including agent-based models, e.g. models of interactive decision making, group dynamics, human crowds, or game-theoretical models.

Part of this course will consist of supervised programming exercises in a computer pool. Credit points are finally earned for the implementation of a mathematical model from the sociological literature in MATLAB and the documentation in a seminar thesis.
Lecture notesThe lecture slides will be presented on the course web page after each lecture.
Literature[1] MATLAB Primer, Seventh Edition, Timothy A. Davis and Kermit Sigmon, (Chapman & Hall, 2004).
[2] MATLAB kompakt, Wolfgang Schweizer, (Oldenbourg, 2006)

Further literature, in particular regarding computer models in the
social sciences, will be provided in the course.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe number of participants is limited to the size of the available computer teaching room. The MATLAB code related to the seminar thesis should be well enough documented for further use by others and must be handed over to the Chair of Sociology, in particular of Modeling and Simulation, for further free and unrestricted use.
851-0591-00LDigital Sustainability in the Knowledge Society
Particularly suitable for students of D-INFK, D-ITET, D-MATL, D-MAVT, D-MTEC, D-USYS.
W2 credits2VM. M. Dapp
AbstractHow do various interest groups influence the methods of production, distribution, and use of digital resources? Current models focusing on strong intellectual property rights are contrasted with open models like, e.g. Open Source/Content/Access. The course discusses consequences from different models and introduces »digital sustainability« as an alternative vision for society.
ObjectiveAt the heart of the discourse is the handling of digital goods and intellectual property in society. Digitization and the Internet allow handling knowledge in a way, which directly contrasts with the traditional understanding of "intellectual property" and the industries based on it. Starting from economic and legal basics, we compare proprietary and open/"free" models. Sustainable development as a concept is transferred to digital goods, taking into account the particular nature of digital stuff.
After the lecture, you should (hopefully) be able to
- characterize the nature of digital goods vs. physical goods
- critique the basic concepts of copyright and patent rights
- explain the political/legal and economic differences between proprietary and open approaches to the production and use of digital goods
- using an example, explain the meaning of digital sustainability and argue why it is relevant for a knowledge society
- transfer the ideas of the free/open source software model to other digital goods (e.g., open content, open access)
ContentTechnical reality: Within minutes you can make perfect copies of high-value digital goods of knowledge or culture (as text, audio, video, image or software) and distribute them around the globe -- for free. «Digitization plus Internet» allows for the first time in humankind's history the (theoretically) free access and global exchange of knowledge at minimal cost. A tremendous opportunity for societal development, in north and south. «Cool, so what's the problem?»
The problem is, that this reality poses a fundamental threat to today's business model of the knowledge and culture industries (starting from the music label and Hollywood, via publishers, up to software vendors). Powerful commercial interests are at stake as «knowledge» (the fourth factor of production) will become ever more important in the 21st century. Accordingly, «piracy» and «file-sharing» are attacked with all means. At the core lies the question about the design of property in digital assets. For that, we apply a concept of «intellectual property», which is several hundred years old and does not address digtal reality in an adequate manner, sometimes leading to absurd situations. Its original goal seems to get forgotten: to help society develop by spreading knowledge as much as possible.
Using the PC becomes the new cultural technique of the 21st century. In contrast to «reading, writing and arithmetics», this new cultural technique cannot exist in isolation, but depends on a hard- and software infrastructure. This dependency extends to the provider of the infrastructure, who can define technical rules, which can take away or restrict the user's freedom. Even advanced users may have difficulties in recognizing these, often hidden, restrictions and in evaluating their societal relevance. But exactly these invisible consequences we need to understand and investigate, because they decide about access, distribution and usage of digital knowledge.
Comparable to the environmentalist movement of the 60s and 70s, a growing political movement for «Free Software» exists today, with «GNU/Linux» as its most popular symbol. The movement fights against treating software code as private property but as a central cultural good available to all without private interests. Based on the success of the Free Software movement, new initiatives extend the concepts to other domains (e.g. scientific knowledge, music)...
As a «teaser» to the lecture, you are invited to read the essay «ETH Zurich - A Pioneer in Digital Sustainability!». It can be downloaded from Link.
More on teach.digisus.info starting from September. Stay tuned.
Lecture notesSlides and other material (both usually in English) will be made available on a weekly basis as the lecture proceeds.
LiteratureContent of the following books is covered (PDFs freely available online):
1 Volker Grassmuck, Freie Software - Zwischen Privat- und Gemeineigentum, Bundeszentrale für Politische Bildung, 2. Aufl. Bonn 2004.
2 François Lévêque & Yann Ménière, The Economics of Patents and Copyright, Berkeley Electronic Press, 2004.
3 Yochai Benkler, The Wealth of Networks, Yale University Press. New Haven 2006.
Other recommended books are:
1 (general) Chris DiBona et al., Open Sources – Voices from the Open Source Revolution, O'Reilly, 1999.
2 (pol. sc.) Steven Weber, The Success of Open Source, Harvard UP, 2004.
3 (law) James Boyle, Shamans, Software, & Spleens - Law and The Construction of the Information Society, Harvard UP, 1996.
4 (law) Lawrence Lessig, Code and Other Laws of Cyberspace, Basic Books, New York 1999.
Prerequisites / NoticeFor administrative and didactic reasons (high level of interaction and credit group assignments on current hot topics), the number of participants is limited to 45.
Of course, any interested person is invited to attend the lecture without doing the group assignment. The website is actively used for the lecture.
851-0588-00LIntroduction to Game Theory. Models and Experimental Studies
Particularly suitable for students of D-MAVT, D-MATL
W2 credits2VA. Diekmann
AbstractThis course introduces the foundations of game theory. It focuses on models of social interaction, conflict and cooperation, the emergence of cooperation and concepts of strategic decision-making behaviour. Examples, applications and the contrast between theory and empirical results are particularly emphasized.
ObjectiveLearn the fundamentals, models, and logic of thinking about game theory.
Apply game theory models to strategic interaction situations and critically assess game theory's capabilities through a wide array of experimental results.
ContentDie Spieltheorie stellt Modelle zur Beschreibung und Analyse sozialer Interaktionen zur Verfügung. Klassische Probleme wie die Hobbessche Frage nach den Bedingungen sozialer Ordnung, die Frage nach der Entstehung und Geltung sozialer Normen oder den Auswirkungen gesetzlicher Regelungen und sozialer und ökonomischer Institutionen werden heute auch mit spieltheoretischen Methoden untersucht. Dabei werden nicht nur Fragestellungen und Lösungsvorschläge präzisiert, sondern oftmals überraschende neue Einsichten gewonnen. Spieltheorie wird überdies auch auf Probleme der Verkehrsplanung, Informatik (z.B. Rechnernetze) und insbesondere in der Biologie (durch Evolution herausgebildete Strategien von Organismen) angewandt.

Nach einer Einführung in die Grundbegriffe (Strategien, Nash-Gleichgewicht, Teilspielperfektheit etc.) stehen auch Erweiterungen (Einführung in wiederholte Spiele, unvollständige Information, evolutionäre Spieltheorie, Signalspiele) auf dem Programm. Ein Schwerpunkt sind Anwendungen der Theorie in verschiedenen Bereichen. Dazu zählen sozialtheoretische Analysen von Kooperation, des sozialen Austauschs, von Institutionen und Normen, sozialen Dilemmata und Reziprozität ebenso wie Anwendungen auf strategisches Verhalten in Politik und zwischen Staaten und Firmen, den Auswirkungen von Reziprozitätsnormen auf dem Arbeitsmarkt und einige Anwendungen aus der Biologie. Es wird sich allerdings zeigen, dass experimentelle und andere empirische Studien häufig den strikten Rationalitätsanforderungen der "Standardtheorie" nicht genügen. Unter dem Stichwort "Behavioural Game Theory" werden in der Vorlesung Theorievarianten diskutiert, die mit den experimentellen Beobachtungen von Entscheidungen "begrenzt rationaler" Akteure besser im Einklang stehen.

In der Vorlesung wird Wert darauf gelegt, Modelle an Beispielen zu demonstrieren und empirische Untersuchungen ("experimentelle Spieltheorie") vorzustellen.
Lecture notesSiehe die angegebene Literatur. Diekmann, A. (2016) zur Einführung; die Folien der Vorlesung werden auf eine Webseite zur Vorlesung gestellt. Weiterführende Literatur wird in der Vorlesung angegeben.
LiteratureDie folgenden Einführungen unterscheiden sich nach Anwendungen und Grad der Formalisierung. Zur Einführung kann man sich eines der folgenden Bücher ansehen, die ab Januar im Handapparat der D-GESS-Bibliothek stehen werden:

Diekmann, Andreas, 2016. Spieltheorie. Einführung, Beispiele, Experimente. 4. Aufl. Reinbek: Rowohlt.

Dixit, Avinash und Susan Skeath, 2004. Games of Strategy. New York: Norton.

Gintis, Herbert, 2000. Game Theory Evolving. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.

Haifetz, Aviad, Game Theory. Interactive Strategies in Economics and Management. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press

Osborne, Martin J., 2009, An Introduction to Game Theory. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Rapoport, Anatol, 1998, 2nd revised edition. Decision Theory and Decision Behaviour. London: Macmillan.

Rasmusen, Eric, 2001. Games and Information. 3. Aufl. Oxford: Blackwell.

Riechmann, Thomas, 2010, Spieltheorie. 3. überarbeitete Auflage
München: Vahlen.

Weitere Literatur und Übungsaufgaben zum Download unter:
Link
Prerequisites / NoticeUm Missverständnisse zu vermeiden: Die Vorlesung ist für Hörerinnen und Hörer aller Departemente geeignet. (Nicht nur für D-MATL, D-MAVT)
851-0585-43LExperimental Game Theory Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 60
W2 credits2SA. Diekmann
AbstractThe course addresses principles and methods of experimental game theory. It focuses on experiments about social interaction, conflict and cooperation, emergence of cooperation and experimental validity of concepts for strategic behaviour in decision-making situations.
ObjectiveLearn the fundamentals and logic of thinking about experimental methods and experimental game theory. Learn to read critically the scientific literature on experimental game theory. Apply experimental game theory methods to strategic interaction situations.
ContentDie Spieltheorie stellt Modelle zur Beschreibung und Analyse sozialer und strategischer Interaktionen zur Verfügung.
Schwerpunkt des Seminars sind experimentelle Studien und empirische Anwendungen der Theorie in verschiedenen Bereichen. Dazu zählen sozialtheoretische Analysen von Kooperation, des sozialen Austauschs, von Institutionen und Normen, sozialen Dilemmata und Reziprozität ebenso wie Anwendungen auf strategisches Verhalten in Politik und zwischen Staaten und Firmen, den Auswirkungen von Reziprozitätsnormen auf dem Arbeitsmarkt und einige Anwendungen in der Biologie. Experimentelle Studien zeigen allerdings, dass häufig die strikten Rationalitätsanforderungen der "Standardtheorie" nicht erfüllt sind. Unter dem Stichwort "Behavioural Game Theory" werden in dem Seminar auch Theorievarianten diskutiert, die mit den experimentellen Beobachtungen von Entscheidungen "begrenzt rationaler" Akteure besser im Einklang stehen. Die Teilnehmer und Teilnehmerinnen werden sich in dem Seminar mit der einschlägigen Literatur zur experimentellen Spieltheorie auseinandersetzen.
Lecture notesFolien der Spieltheorie-Vorlesung und Literatur (Fachartikel, Kapitel aus Lehrbüchern) können auf der Webseite des Seminar eingesehen und heruntergeladen werden.
LiteratureKurzer Überblick in Kapitel 10 von Diekmann, Andreas, 2016. Spieltheorie. Einführung, Beispiele, Experimente. 4. Aufl. Reinbek: Rowohlt.
Ausführlich: John H. Kagel und Alvin E. Roth, Hg., 1995, Handbook of Experimental Economics. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press.
(Ein Handapparat dieser und weiterer Literatur wird in der D-GESS-Bibliothek bereitgestellt.)
Literatur zum Download befindet sich auch auf der Webseite:
Link
Prerequisites / NoticeInteresse am Thema und Motivation zur Mitarbeit. Der Besuch der Vorlesung "Spieltheorie" (851-0588-00 V, Dienstag, 15-17 Uhr) ist hilfreich.
227-0802-02LSociologyW2 credits2VA. Diekmann
AbstractVarious studies are used to introduce basic sociological concepts, theories and empirical research methods, along with selected sociological topics. The goal of the course is to provide participants with an understanding of working practice in empirical sociology and the central findings of sociological studies.
ObjectiveTo learn about methods of empirical social research and key results of classic and modern sociological studies.
ContentSoziologie befasst sich mit den Regelmässigkeiten sozialer Handlungen und ihrer gesellschaftlichen Folgen. Sie richtet ihren Blick auf die Beschreibung und Erklärung neuer gesellschaftlicher Entwicklungen und erfasst diese mit emprischen Forschungsmethoden. Die Vorlesung wird u.a. anhand von Beispielstudien - klassische Untersuchungen ebenso wie moderne Forschungsarbeiten - in die Grundbegriffe, Theorien, Forschungsmethoden und Themenbereiche der Soziologie einführen.

Folgende Themen werden behandelt:

1. Einführung in die Arbeitsweise der Soziologie anhand verschiedener Beispielstudien. Darstellung von Forschungsmethoden und ihrer Probleme. Etappen des Forschungsprozesses: Hypothese, Messung, Stichproben, Erhebungsmethoden, Datenanalyse.

2. Darstellung und Diskussion soziologischer Befunde aus der Umwelt- und Techniksoziologie. (1) Modernisierung und Technikrisiken, (2) Umweltbewegung, Umweltbewusstsein und Umweltverhalten, (3) Umweltprobleme als "soziale Dilemmata", (4) Modelle der Diffusion technischer Innovationen.

3. Der Beitrag der Sozialtheorie. Vorstellung und Diskussion ausgewählter Studien zu einzelnen Themenbereichen, z.B.: (1) Die Entstehung sozialer Kooperation, (2) Reputation und Märkte, (3) Soziale Netzwerke u.a.m.

Ergänzende Gruppenarbeiten (nicht verpflichtend). Im Rahmen des MTU-Programms des ITET und Programmen anderer Departemente können Semesterarbeiten in Soziologie (Durchführung einer kleinen empirischen Studie, Konstruktion eines Simulationsmodels sozialer Prozesse oder Diskussion einer vorliegenden soziologischen Untersuchung) angefertigt werden. Kreditpunkte (in der Regel 6 bis 12) für "kleine" oder "grosse" Semesterarbeiten werden nach den Regeln des Departements, das Semestergruppenarbeiten ermöglicht, vergeben.
Lecture notesFolien der Vorlesung und weitere Materialien (Fachartikel, Kopien aus Büchern) werden auf der Webseite der Vorlesung zum Download zur Verfügung gestellt.
LiteratureFolien der Vorlesung und weitere Materialien (Fachartikel, Kopien aus Büchern) werden auf der Webseite der Vorlesung zum Download zur Verfügung gestellt.
Prerequisites / NoticeInteresse am Thema und Bereitschaft zum Mitdenken.
051-0811-00LSociology I Information W1 credit2VC. Schmid
AbstractSociology I investigates the relation between social developments and the production of the built environment from a macro-sociological point of view. It examines central aspects of social change, historical and present-day forms of urbanization, and typical examples of models of urbanization.
ObjectiveThis series of lectures should enable students to comprehend architecture in its social context. It approaches the architectural profession from two different angles: macro-sociological and micro-sociological.
ContentSociology I deals with the macro-sociological point of view, and investigates the relation between social developments and the production of the built environment. In the first part some central aspects of social change are examined – in particular the transition from Fordism to Postfordism and from Modernism to Postmodernism, and the interlinked processes of globalization and regionalization. The second part deals with historical and present-day forms of urbanization. Among other aspects treated here are the changed significance of urban-rural contrasts, the processes of suburbanization and periurbanization, the formation of global cities and metropolitan regions, the growth of new urban configurations in centres (gentrification) and on urban peripheries (edge city, exopolis). In the third part these general processes are illustrated by typical models of urbanization.
701-1541-00LMultivariate Methods
One of the lectures 701-1541-00 (autumn semester) OR 752-2110-00 (spring semester) are highly recommended for students in Environmental Sciences with the Major Environmental systems and Policy.
W3 credits2V + 1UR. Hansmann
AbstractThe course teaches multivariate statistical methods such as linear regression, analysis of variance, cluster analysis, factor analysis and logistic regression.
ObjectiveUpon completion of this course, the student should have acquired:
(1) Knowledge on the foundations of several methods of multivariate data analysis, along with the conditions under which their use is appropriate
(2) Skill in the estimation, specification and diagnostics of the various models
(3) Hands-on experience with those methods through the use of appropriate software and actual data sets in the PC lab
ContentThe course will begin with an introduction to multivariate methods such as analysis of variance and multiple linear regression, where a metric dependent variable is "explained" by two or more independent variables. Then two methods for structuring complex data, cluster analysis and factor analysis will be covered. In the last part, procedures for the analysis of relationships involving dichotomous or polytomous dependent variables (e.g., the choice of a mode of transportation) will be discussed.
LiteratureWill be announced at the beginning of the course.
701-0731-00LEnvironmental Behavior in Social ContextW2 credits2SH. Bruderer Enzler
AbstractThis introductory class in the environmental social sciences covers topics such as environmental behavior, environmental concern, social dilemmas and social norms.
ObjectiveBasic knowledge of the environmental social sciences
Overview on current fields of research and their relevance for practical application
ContentUmweltverhalten ist stets in einen gesellschaftlichen Kontext eingebettet und wird durch verschiedenste soziale, psychologische und situationale Faktoren beeinflusst. In diesem Kurs wird Umweltverhalten daher unter anderem im Zusammenhang mit Umweltbewusstsein, sozialen Dilemmata und sozialen Normen diskutiert. Alle Themen werden zunächst eingeführt und anschliessend durch Studierende vertieft. Die Studierenden gestalten voraussichtlich in Zweiergruppen eine Unterrichtsstunde und verfassen eine kurze schriftliche Arbeit.

Fragen, die uns während des Semesters beschäftigen:
- Wie kommt es zu Umweltschädigungen, obwohl niemand diese beabsichtigt?
- Wer verhält sich besonders umweltschonend? Wie wird dies gemessen?
- Welche Rolle spielt das Umweltbewusstsein?
- Welche Rolle spielen äussere Faktoren (Möglichkeiten, Kosten etc.)?
- Wie sehr lassen wir uns dadurch beeinflussen, was andere machen?
- Kooperieren wir nur, wenn auch andere dies tun?
LiteratureDiekmann, A., & Preisendörfer, P. (2001). Umweltsoziologie. Eine Einführung. Reinbek: Rowohlt.
Steg, L., van den Berg, A., & de Groot, J. (2013). Environmental Psychology. An Introduction. Chichester: BPS Blackwell.
051-0813-16LSociology: Urban Quality of Life - Ethnological Field Research in District 5 and in Zurich NorthW2 credits2SC. Schmid, H. Nigg
AbstractIn this ethnographic field research we examine the question, how people are perceiving and creating their environment, and how an urban quality of life is forming. We investigate four neighborhoods in the Zurich Region: upper District 5, Zurich West, Seebach and Glattpark.
ObjectiveThis elective course highlights the sociological perspective on architectural practice and provides an introduction to sociological research.
It focuses on two main procedures: on the one hand, a systematic reading and discussion of theoretical texts, and on the other, empirical case studies of social aspects of the production of the built environment. In this course, a wide set of qualitative research methods is used (including various forms of interview, participant observation, image and text analyses). This approach enables students to gain their own experience by dealing with the various participants and constellations in the social field of architecture and building construction, and to familiarize themselves with the approaches and perceptions of various different participants.
ContentAn introduction into ethnographic field research.

Urban ethnology concentrates on the urban space, on urban actors, on the cityscape and compares cities of different continents and cultures with each other. Urban ethnology investigates symboles and practices representing and participating in the normal course of city life. Urban ethnology understands urban space not only as built environment, but also as a lived cultural and social context. With ethnographic field research the perception of actors in local milieus is investigated. How do they see and experience urban contexts? How do they move in the city area? How do they recognize houses, roads and places? How do they hear the city? The perception of local milieus, their obstinacy, creativity and their special way of life is considered significant for better understanding the city as central point of current social development. For ethnographic surveys of the built environment architects nowadays use a number of methods and techniques: participating in observation, interviews, photo and video site inspections in urban rooms, mindmapping etc.

Dr. Heinz Nigg ist Ethnologe und Kulturschaffender
851-0252-09LSpecial Topics in Cognitive Neuroscience Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 60.
W3 credits2VC. Ghisleni, V. Schinazi
AbstractCognitive neuroscience bridges two seemingly distinct but closely related disciplines. On one side, there is cognitive psychology and on the other side biology, or more specifically, neuroscience. In terms of research, this relatively young field aims to explain such diverse mental processes as thinking, perceiving, feeling, and reasoning by exploring their underlying biological or neural mechanis
ObjectiveThis course explores selected topics of cognitive neuroscience. The course begins with a basic introduction to the field covering neural anatomy and brain physiology. Contemporary methods used in neuroscientific research (e.g., fMRI, EEG) will also be introduced and their benefits and limits critically reviewed. Using this knowledge, we will discuss some of the classic works in neuroscience in visual perception, memory and emotion. This will be accompanied by some famous cases of patients demonstrating problems in these domains (e.g., people with agnosia or amnesia). Further topics will include the cognitive and neural processes involved in pain processing, the placebo effect, as well as spatial representation and navigation.
This course targets students at the Bachelor level with no previous experience. The main requirement for this course is an open and critical mind. By the end of the course, the student will be able to identify the major brain structures and to explain the basic functioning of neurons as well as some of the fundamental principles of how our brain works. Students should have an understanding of the methods used to generate the various findings reported in the literature and the media. The course aims to enable and encourage the students to critically evaluate these findings, and what can and cannot be answered with neuroscience techniques. For each of the topics, students should be able to identify the phenomenon, give examples, and discuss one or two of the main theories explaining it.
851-0597-01LEvolutionary Foundations of Social Behavior Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 20.
W2 credits1VE. Voland
AbstractThis lecture will deal with the manifestations of the "selfish gene" principle in human social behavior. Cooperation and competition, selfishness and altruism, gender relations and parent-child conflicts are issues, the evolutionary backgrounds of which will be discussed. Special attention will be paid to the “costly signaling” theory.
ObjectiveYou will receive an in-depth overview of the application of Darwinian theory on behavioral phenomena. This will enable you to approach the heuristic perspective of the so-called “adaptationist program” of social phenomena. Finally, you will be able to discern the benefits and the problems of the evolutionary perspective within various scientific disciplines, especially anthropology, psychology, empirical social research and comparative cultural sciences.
LiteratureVoland, Eckart: Die Natur des Menschen: Grundkurs Soziobiologie. München (C.H. Beck) 2007

Voland, Eckart: Soziobiologie: Die Evolution von Kooperation und Konkurrenz. 4. Auflage. Heidelberg (Spektrum Akademischer Verlag) 2013
Prerequisites / NoticeDer Leistungsnachweis erfolgt durch einen benoteten Essay. Letzter Abgabetermin dafür ist der 31. Januar 2017.
Science Research
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
851-0157-00LMind and BrainW3 credits2VM. Hagner
AbstractIn the last 2500 years, the mind-brain relationship has been articulated in various ways. In these lectures, I will explore the scientific and philosophical aspects of this relationship in the context of relevant cultural, historical and technological processes, with a focus on the modern neurosciences, but I will also discuss works of art and literature.
ObjectiveBy the end of this lecture, students should be familiar with essential positions in the scientific and philosophical treatment of questions relating the mind to the brain. It should also become clear that some of the most relevant problems in current neurosciences have a long history.
ContentAccording to a myth, the ancient Greek philosopher Democrit dissected animals, because he was in search of the seat of the soul. Current neuoscientists use neuroimaging techniques like functional magnetic-resonance-tomography in order to localize cognitive and emotional qualities in the brain. Between these two dates lies a history of 2500 years, in which the relationship between the mind and the brain has been defined in various ways. Starting with ancient and medieval theories, the lecture will have its focus on modern theories from the nineteenth century onward. I will discuss essential issues in the history of the neurosciences such as localization theories, the neuron doctrine, reflex theory, theories of emotions, neurocybernetics and the importance of visualizing the brain and its parts, but I will also include works of art and literature.
851-0157-66LWho was Sigmund Freud?W3 credits2SM. Hagner
AbstractThis seminar is devoted to the introduction into the ideas and concepts of one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century. We will read selected texts by Freud for getting an overview over his medical, psychological and cultural thinking.
Objective30 years ago it would have been bizarre to ask the question: Who was Sigmund Freud? The influence of psychoanalysis on twentieth century thinking was taken for granted even by those ones who rejected Freud's ideas. In contrast, the question today would be: What are Freud's central theories? We will tackle this question in the seminar and reconstruct Freud's thinking from his early medical writings to those writings, in which he developed a critical view of his time. The aim of the seminar is not only to understand Freud's thinking in historical context, but also to reflect, what it could mean to us in early twentyfirst century.
851-0158-08LThe Parliament of Things. Bruno Latour and the Sociology of ScienceW3 credits1SH. von Sass
AbstractBruno Latour (* 1947) is one of the most important contemporary sociologist of science. He enriched our understanding of what a scientific fact is and how we get to it, i.e. how it is made up, not only discovered. Latour defends a constructivist approach with realist elements. What that exactly means, will be clarified in this course.
Objective- Introduction into the sociology of science of Bruno Latour, esp. the Agent/Network/Theory.

- Understanding main topics of sociology and philosophy of science.
851-0157-67LCreativity Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 40.
W3 credits2SM. Wulz, V. Wolff
AbstractBeing creative may appear to be the most important requirement of the present age: creative thinking, start-ups, project development all seem to promise an ongoing innovation of work and life. Instead of repeating that promise once again, this course asks for the historical conditions of discourses of creativity.
ObjectiveWe will deal with historical and contemporary theories of inventive imagination, fantasy, and creativity. Looking at artistic, psychological, pedagogical, economic, and entrepreneurial discourses of creativity from the 18th to the 21st century we will discuss their specific contexts in order to uncover historical differences and changes. Is it indeed possible to identify conjunctions between the economicization, scientification and normalization of creativity? Are there any alternatives to the reigning paradigm of creativity? And if so, what are those?
851-0157-68LPublish or Perish, 1800-2016: On the History of Scientific PublishingW3 credits2SN. Guettler, M. Stadler
AbstractThis seminar deals with the past, present, and imaginary futures of scientific publishing. We shall discuss the origins and trajectories of specific formats, conventions, and genres as well as examine exemplary historical developments as regards scientific publishing and associated cultures of science.
ObjectiveThe technological upheavals wrought by the "digital age" have put the subject of scientific publishing on the map (again). Open access, copyright, or print-on-demand are just a few of the buzzwords that have defined controversies in recent years. The aim of this seminar is assist students in developing critical perspectives on these contempory debates - by learning about the history of scientific publishing, including the role of specific publishers and journals, the footnote, or the malleable nature of authorship.
851-0157-69LHistory of Astronomy Restricted registration - show details
Particularly suitable for students of D-ERDW, D-MATH, D-PHYS
Die Veranstaltung ist ausgebucht
W3 credits2SS. Mastorakou
AbstractThe course is designed to provide an overview of the astronomical developments from the ancient Greek world to the 16th century. We are going to use primary sources tackling historical, technical and philosophical questions. Special attention will be paid to the dramatic change in the way people understood the structure of the heavens and the nature of the physical world.
ObjectiveThe course aims at providing a working knowledge of astronomy and cosmology from the ancient world to the 16th century. Upon its completion the students will be able to describe how our knowledge of the heavens changed from Aristotle's system to the Copernican Revolution. In addition, they will also have acquired an appreciation of the debates about man's place in the cosmos and the philosophical principles underpinning cosmology.
851-0157-70LThe Mathematics of Scientific Racism Restricted registration - show details W2 credits1SA. Teicher
AbstractHow did racial scientists determine racial affiliation? In the seminar we will examine the practical challenges and eventual works of physical anthropologists from 1850 to the present. By scrutinizing the scientific toolbox of racial scientists, we will reveal how national affiliation, anti-Semitic perceptions and Gender identity shaped scholars' choices of graphical and computational methods.
ObjectiveThe aim of the course is to analyze the mutual relations between scientific theories and social perceptions, and to follow the formation of the "scientific mind". The course focuses on racial scientists and on the way their practices of computation and statistical analysis influenced their world-views - and vice versa. The students will be instructed on the way historians of science analyze scientific sources. They will gain a better understanding of the complexities of disciplinary dynamics, social biases and institutional pressures shaping scientific ideas, and learn on the influences such scientific ideas may have on the society as a whole.
Prerequisites / NoticePlease note that the seminar will be held in English and most texts will be in English. However, a small portion of the reading material will be in German.
701-0771-00LEnvironmental Conciousness and Public Relations Information Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 60.

Sign in until 29.09.2016.

Please describe your expectations. Why do want to attend this special topic? Do you have any pre-information about the integral model? Do you have any practical experience in environmental communication?
W2 credits2GR. Locher Van Wezemael
Abstract"Environmental Conciousness and Public Relations" shows how to communicate about environment and sustainability successfully. We look at campaigns, exhibitions and other public relations measures to learn, how to design and realize good communication.
ObjectiveYou learn how to handle tools and concepts in environmental communication. And you can evaluate communication projects. We also discuss the evolution of consciousness.
Content- Methods and tools in environmental communication.
- Marketing mix
- Examples of campaigns, events, print products, media relations.
- Integral sustainability
Lecture notesHandouts
Literature- Integral Vision; Ken Wilber, 2005
Prerequisites / NoticeWe will discuss new trends in environmental communication with the focus on integral solutions.
851-0158-07LWorldviews in ConflictW3 credits2VW. A. Stahel, H. von Sass, C. aus der Au Heymann
AbstractWorldviews guide our thoughts and our actions even though we may not be aware of it. They often are realized only when they are confronted with each other. By means of lectures, discussions and contributions of participants, we will examine those worldviews as to the underlying philosophical concepts and their relations to the sciences, philosophy and religion.
ObjectiveStudents of all disciplines shall obtain a basis for their own exploration of worldviews. Prior knowledge of philosophical concepts and history is not required.