From an ethics of deficiency to an ethics of abundance: Convivial technologies in care

Nora Weinberger; Bettina-Johanna Krings; Dana Mahr

doi:10.14512/tatup.7183

Authors

Nora Weinberger Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe (DE) https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1148-7470 nora.weinberger@kit.edu
Bettina-Johanna Krings Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe (DE) https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4253-0136 bettina-johanna.krings@kit.edu
Dana Mahr Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe (DE) https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7482-465X dana.mahr@kit.edu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14512/tatup.7183

Keywords:

convivial technology, care ethics, assistive technologies, DIY technology, humanoid robots

Abstract

The paradigm of humans as ‘deficient beings’ legitimizes technological innovations aimed at compensating for presumed human deficits. In care technologies, this becomes manifest in prioritizing automation and efficiency, while relational and participatory aspects are neglected. This article argues for a shift from deficit-oriented framings to an ethics of abundance and conviviality. Drawing on empirical examples such as humanoid care robots and DIY assistive tools, we illustrate how convivial approaches can support relational care practices. Concludingly, we discuss concrete options for the design of care technologies at the micro level (e.g., co-design) and at the macro level (cultural shift toward conviviality) to create infrastructures that focus on relationality, collective well-being, and resource efficiency.

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