Complex sociotechnical systems are embedded with the systemic inequities that plague society, for example, racism, classism, sexism, and so forth.

Unless technology and its norms of use and governance are developed and implemented with the explicit goal of creating and sustaining intersectional equity, the impacts of these systems will continue to be disproportionate; certain groups will systematically benefit from them, while other groups are systematically harmed, regardless of intent.

In this talk, Dr. Turner will discuss examples of equity and inequity within broader society, including: 1) in the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S. and its disparate effects along lines of class, race and infrastructure (focusing on Greater Boston); and 2) the exclusionary cultures and demographics uplifted and amplified in STEM and innovation (focusing on Greater Boston and Detroit Metro). Further, within the nuclear and aerospace fields specifically, she will consider the question of equity through examining technologies and field-specific norms across scale.

Short bio:
Dr. Katlyn Turner is a Research Scientist at the MIT Media Lab in the Space Enabled Research Group. Dr. Turner's research investigates the relationship between complex systems, social hierarchy, and equity. She uses principles of systems engineering, STS, policy analysis, and critical theories in her work in order to design principles and outcomes that foster equity in technological systems. Technology sectors of interest in Dr. Turner's work include the nuclear technology, aerospace technology, climate innovation, disaster preparedness, and environmental resilience. Dr. Turner earned her PhD in Geological & Environmental Sciences from Stanford University in 2017, MS in Earth & Environmental Sciences from the University of Michigan in 2014, and BS in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 2012.

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28.07.2023