Wertefolgen

Wertefolgen, also known as "value consequences" or "value chains," is a concept primarily used in German-speaking countries, particularly in the fields of ethics, technology assessment, and environmental policy. The term refers to the systematic analysis of the potential impacts that a technological innovation, policy decision, or other intervention may have on societal values. This approach aims to identify and evaluate how different outcomes could affect fundamental ethical principles such as autonomy, justice, sustainability, or human dignity.

The method of Wertefolgenabschätzung (value consequences assessment) was developed to complement traditional risk assessments, which often focus narrowly on physical or economic consequences. By contrast, Wertefolgenabschätzung considers broader ethical implications, including how decisions might influence social structures, cultural norms, or individual freedoms. This framework is particularly relevant in debates surrounding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, or digital surveillance, where long-term societal effects are difficult to predict.

A key aspect of Wertefolgen is its participatory nature. Stakeholders, including experts, policymakers, and the public, are often involved in identifying and weighing the values at stake. This ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, and decisions are made with greater transparency and accountability. The process typically involves mapping possible future scenarios, assessing their ethical implications, and discussing trade-offs between competing values.

Wertefolgenabschätzung is not limited to technology but can also be applied to environmental policies, economic reforms, or social programs. For example, it might be used to evaluate how a new climate policy could affect vulnerable populations or how a digitalization initiative might impact labor rights. By anticipating and addressing potential ethical dilemmas early, this approach seeks to foster more responsible and inclusive decision-making processes.

While valuable, the method is not without challenges. Defining and prioritizing values can be subjective, and different cultures or groups may hold conflicting perspectives. Additionally, predicting long-term consequences remains speculative, requiring careful interpretation of results. Despite these limitations, Wertefolgenabschätzung remains a useful tool for promoting ethical reflection in complex decision-making contexts.