Research and dialogue
The Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG) researches the development of the internet from a societal perspective. Its aim is to better understand the digitalisation of all spheres of life. Founded in 2011 as the first research institution in Germany with this focus, HIIG has developed an understanding that centres on the deep interconnectedness of technological developments and societal processes. This understanding does not treat technology as a force of nature: the development of technology reflects norms, values and interests. As technologies become embedded in social practice, they in turn shape societal values and expectations.
HIIG conducts research through a European lens, with an eye on global interdependencies. Our dedication to interdisciplinarity is the starting point for everything we do. In our research practice, scientific insight and societal dialogue are deliberately intertwined. We work in a theory-informed and empirical manner, actively involving actors from politics, business and civil society. From this emerges an institutional mission that is oriented towards impact. We produce new knowledge, make it accessible and applicable for different stakeholders in society. This provides evidence-based foundations for decisions and forward-looking options for action, so that society can shape the digital transformation in its own interest.
How an idea became HIIG
Every institute has a founding idea. HIIG’s grew out of a gap – and has kept evolving alongside the questions raised by digital society ever since.
Research for navigating digital change
HIIG analyses the interplay between innovation and governance across a range of research focuses and projects.
Dialogue as research practice
We continuously develop new research formats and build bridges that enable productive exchange between academia and society.
Problem-driven research
New models of thought and action
We create spaces that foster creative thinking and respond swiftly to disruptive phenomena. This agile approach enables us to align research questions with emerging challenges at an early stage, to critically contextualise technological developments and to contribute to their democratic governance. In doing so, we question not only current developments but also the concepts, structures and norms that underlie them and that may require reformulation.
Sharing knowledge
Communication as a research practice
We make our research findings accessible and applicable to different audiences. Science communication is an integral part of our work. This is why we develop new formats that connect research with citizens, educational institutions, public administrations and the academic community, as well as political and economic actors – from our science blog, talk series and podcasts to games and educational materials, guides and policy recommendations.
Inter- and transdisciplinarity at work
Participatory research with impact
Researching the digital transformation requires perspectives from different disciplines as well as the active involvement of politics, business and civil society. We foster this productive exchange of knowledge to create a sound basis for forward-looking decisions in society. To this end, we use methods that combine co-creation and societal exchange, such as research sprints and clinics, multi-stakeholder dialogues and ideathons.
Space to explore
A culture of openness
HIIG offers researchers from diverse backgrounds and at all career stages an environment for exchange and new ideas. They can pick up new research topics early and build networks without red tape. We encourage unconventional approaches and remain open to impulses from all parts of society. This dynamic is essential for research that not only observes technological and societal developments but always considers possible courses of action.
