ESMH regularly publishes articles on topics related to science and new technologies that provoke a lot of media attention and that are important in the European context. Most importantly, the articles are written with the help of science writers in journalistic style and always provide the opinion of one or more scientists on the topic. The publications are accompanied by a selection of links to related information and with a focus on European research and knowledge in the field.
Articles
Online disinformation during elections : researchers in Europe team up to monitor and analyse the situation
As has been the case for many recent national elections, the European Parliament elections are also facing the challenges of online disinformation. The European Commission is making an extra effort to push giant tech companies to implement a voluntary code of conduct against disinformation. European researchers are preparing the first studies on the topic.
Michael Bossetta : “We need more research into what are the best technological structures to facilitate meaningful dialogue”
Michael Bossetta is social media expert, political and data scientist at the University of Copenhagen and podcaster. He participated in the ESMH event Virality and influencers in digital communication on 3 April in the European Parliament.
The promise and limitations of technological solutions to disinformation
How useful can machine-learning be in dealing with vectors of disinformation such as deep fakes or bots, and what are the implications of AI-powered fact-checking and deprioritising systems for media pluralism and freedom of expression?
Towards a democratically upgraded artificial intelligence
AI challenges democracies but democratic institutions, especially in the EU, are not mere bystanders and are in the process of supporting AI and providing a legal framing, through education and regulation.
Autonomous cars : will roads be safer if algorithms replace human drivers?
Research on autonomous cars has received a boost from the European Parliament, but the technology still raises many questions. Can it be safe and ethical? Will it totally eliminate the need for human drivers? And, of course: when will this happen?
Scott Brennen : “We live in a kind of post-truth age where science facts are doubted”
Scott Brennen from the Oxford Martin Programme on Misinformation, Science, and Media investigates how changing media structures and technologies are shaping the scientific information and scientific misinformation.
The Oceans of Plastics – Plastisphere: A new term for the marine environment
Every minute, the equivalent of one garbage truck of plastic waste enters the oceans. Plastic pollution is so ubiquitous that scientists have coined a new term for the marine environment: the plastisphere.
The growing threat of internet addiction
Excessive and problematic internet use is increasingly recognised as a potential threat to public health.
Debate on “killer robots”: the crucial role of human control
Advancement in military automation is raising concerns across the world, especially about the prospects of so-called "killer robots".
Antibiotics on farms: Europe starts to curb bad practices
Resistant infections kill an estimated 33 000 people in the European Union annually.