Unpacking Generativity. Epistemology, Politics, and Aesthetics of Generative AI Systems

How can contemporary AI systems be understood as generative technologies—beyond their technical functions? What becomes visible through these systems, what remains obscured or actively excluded? And what are the political, cultural, and epistemic implications of algorithmic media’s generative capacities?

The symposium Unpacking Generativity invites critical engagement with generative AI systems from interdisciplinary perspectives. Focusing on three thematic blocks—Epistemology, Politics, and Aesthetics—the event aims to explore the societal impact and symbolic power of generative AI beyond technical definitions, situating it within broader knowledge systems, political economies, and visual cultures.

Bringing together scholars, theorists, and practitioners from fields such as Science and Technology Studies, media theory, political science, digital cultures, computer science, and the arts, the symposium fosters dialogue on the shifting landscape of digital infrastructures. Each thematic block will feature a keynote, two lightning talks, and a joint discussion. The event will close with a final conversation between all three keynote speakers. The symposium will take place in person in Dresden.

We welcome submissions for lightning talks (max. 500 words) related to one of the three thematic blocks. Disciplinary and interdisciplinary contributions are equally encouraged.

Please send your abstracts by July 27, 2025 to:

Further information on the themes and structure can be found in the attached call. DOWNLOAD PDF

The symposium is organized by Niklas Egberts, Jasmin Höning, and Nelly Saibel as part of the Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden.