In Munich, the new Bavarian Research Institute for Digital Transformation (BIDT) of the Bavarian Academy of Sciences began operations.
The new research institute will investigate the impact of Digitalization on our society and actively shape it. The research results should also serve as a basis for advice for politicians and other important stakeholders. Science Minister Bernd Sibler emphasized the importance of the BIDT at the opening:
“With the BIDT, we have a new, independent, innovative, and cooperative research institution in the Free State that will play an important role in the digitalization process.”
Further formulated Thomas O. Höllmann, President of the Bavarian Academy of Sciences, the further goals of the BIDT:
The BIDT contributes to creating a sound understanding of the changes in civil society, politics, and the economy. As a research institute, it aims to monitor current developments openly and critically and shape the discourse."
The institute has access to 7.2 million euros per year. Furthermore, more than 20 permanent positions will be created starting in 2020.
Bavarian Research Institute for Digital Transformation: Interdisciplinary Approach
The Academy of Sciences is adopting an interdisciplinary approach to the new research institute, combining perspectives from technology, economics, law and social sciences.
"Active design requires a rational basis, not panic-mongering. For this, we need the cooperation and collective intelligence of engineers, lawyers, economists, political scientists, sociologists, philosophers, and many others.
says Alexander Pretschner, Chairman of the BIDT Board.
