Basic idea: Vienna Circle
The Vienna Circle was a group of philosophers and scientists active mainly in Vienna in the 1920s and 1930s. They played a key role in the development of logical positivism and scientific empiricism. The circle, originally founded by Moritz Schlick after he took up a professorship at the University of Vienna in 1922, was composed of a number of prominent members, including Rudolf Carnap, Otto Neurath, and Carl Hempel. They pursued a rigorous analysis of language and rejected metaphysics and theology, considering these areas scientifically unverifiable. The Vienna Circle had considerable influence on 20th century philosophy and laid the foundation for the analytic approach in many areas of philosophical thought.
The idea of a “circle,” inspired by the concept of the Vienna Circle, refers to an intellectual or academic group that meets regularly to discuss and develop ideas and theories. These groups, such as CTS//circles, consist of members with diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, but who share a common scholarly orientation within an interdisciplinary framework. In these circles, regular meetings, discussions, and critical analyses of studies, technological developments, and other ideas take place, leading to the joint development of new theories, methods, or reflections. In the process, members can critique, inspire, and challenge each other, which can lead to significant advances in their respective fields. The Vienna Circle is a classic example of such a group, whose rigorous approach to analyzing and rejecting metaphysics has had far-reaching effects on philosophy and science and serves as a source of inspiration for the organization of CTS//circles.
Within the extensive network of CTS, there exist “Circles,” independent entities that organize around specific topics and manage themselves. Each
CTS//circle,
regardless of its specific topic focus, maintains a close connection to the
CTS//headquarters
the CTS - Center for Technology & Society
,
particularly through a lead person who comes from the
CTS//sites
participating higher education institutions (see We are)
and is responsible for the regular exchange of information.
However, a Circle is not only composed of its lead person. It also includes a number of staff:ers who are also from the
CTS//sites
participating higher education institutions (see We are)
,
as well as additional supporters:ers. This diversified team works together on the goals and projects of each Circle.
The Circles benefit from strong support from the
CTS//headquarters
the CTS - Center for Technology & Society
.
As a service center, the Headquarters provides essential organizational and financial support, enabling the Circles to operate efficiently and effectively in their work.
In addition, the leaders of all Circles have a special role within the overall CTS system. They form a joint board that contributes significantly to the further development of the content of the entire CTS. In this function, they play a key role in determining the content priorities of the CTS and thus actively contribute to the design and direction of the entire organization.