KEYNOTE  1:

 

Koen Kramer
Philosophy, Wageningen University, Holland.

'The technological mediation of human-animal relations'

Abstract: Human practices in which animals are involved often include the use of technology: some farmed animals are for example milked robotically or monitored by smart technologies, laboratory animals are adapted to specific purposes through the application of biotechnologies, and social media accounts are created for pets. Building on technological mediation theory, this talk considers how such technological practices can influence how humans see and treat nonhuman animals.

Bio:

Koen Kramer studied Philosophy and holds a PhD in applied ethics. His postdoctoral research has been addressing ethical dimensions of the use of technologies (including but not limited to breeding technologies) in animal agriculture. In his most recent papers, Koen has been incorporating approaches from the ethics of technology into animal ethics.

KEYNOTE 2:

 

Mia Cobb
Animal Welfare Science Centre, University of Melbourne, Australia.

'Animals and digital technologies: Can we maximise the benefits for animals and society while mitigating potential harms?'

Abstract: Digital technologies are developing faster than society can understand and prepare for. These technologies—which include artificial intelligence, wearables, tracking devices, robots, drones, and automated decision systems—are increasingly applied to farm, companion, aquatic, wild, sporting, and working animals. Technologies have the potential to both mitigate and exacerbate challenges and changes that involve animals. This presentation will outline a new method for co-designing technology with animals, showing how emerging technologies can play a socially responsible role in expanding our understanding of animals and improving animal welfare. Ethical, practical and socio-technical dimensions of animal-related technology and future opportunities will be discussed.

Bio:

Mia Cobb worked in animal shelter and working dog facilities for over a decade. After recognising the growing importance of animal welfare to our sustainable partnerships with animals, she shifted focus to research and advance the welfare of Australia’s working and sporting dogs. She is currently interested in how the intersections of animal welfare science, human psychology, science communication, and emerging technologies can help animals and people lead happier lives. Mia’s family share their home with a large mutt named Rudy.