Abstract
The dynamics of images, imaginaries and imagination play a crucial role – in academic as well as in public discourses! What kind of essential relations exist between different expressive forms and patterns of thought? How can we understand the principles determining the ways in which their dynamics take effect – in the practice of scientists and engineers, and at their interfaces with politics, economy, culture and the public? Which options do we have to make good use of our insights?
Despite of the diversity of topics – treated with either more interest in theoretical reflections, programmatic considerations or practice-oriented descriptions – all contributions to this volume share a common interest: to raise our awareness and understanding of the generative capacities of these processes.
Exploring this prolific interplay is of utmost importance for expanding our ability to identify emerging opportunities, to create future perspectives, and to assess the societal consequences of scientific and technological developments. This expansion is indispensable if we really want to be clear about our preferences whilst shaping the ongoing stream of inventions and innovations according to our values.