Brain City Ambassador Dorothea Winter

Brain City Berlin

As a research associate at the Humanistische Hochschule Berlin (Humanistic University Berlin), Dorothea Winter consciously engages in academic discourse beyond the confines of the traditional scholarly environment. Her primary research interests lie in the fields of artificial intelligence and ethics.

“What does it mean to be a subject when machines increasingly assume the role of actors?” Dorothea Winter teaches, conducts research, and publishes on contemporary philosophical questions, particularly those concerning artificial intelligence and ethics. “I am interested in how algorithmic systems challenge our conceptualizations of autonomy, responsibility, and maturity,” explains the Brain City Ambassador, who has been affiliated with the Humanistische Hochschule Berlin since 2021. “I am especially intrigued by the interface between intentionality and responsibility,” she adds. The reason for this interest lies in the fact that while artificial intelligence is capable of processing data, it lacks the capacity to comprehend meaning. Nevertheless, many users attribute agency to such systems. “This discrepancy is of considerable philosophical interest and poses significant societal implications.”

Dorothea Winter is a philosopher by training. Her early academic pursuits focused on language, meaning, and consciousness. She studied philosophy in Freiburg and Munich and completed her doctoral dissertation in 2024 at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin. The title of her dissertation was “Intentionality and Artificial Intelligence.” “Once AI began generating images and texts, it became evident that my research interests were closely aligned with pressing societal concerns.” For this reason, the Brain City Ambassador considers it essential to practice philosophy not only within academic seminars but also to contribute to public discourse through media, panel discussions, and social media platforms. “My work is highly interdisciplinary and resonates with aspects of popular culture. This makes it both meaningful and intellectually rewarding.”

In addition to her academic teaching on topics such as digital humanism and applied ethics, Dorothea Winter is currently writing a book on the millennial generation and its pursuit of autonomy in the digital age. She is also actively involved in public events that foster dialogue between science, art, and society.

Berlin is a city of contrasts: wild and fragmented, yet highly academic and internationally connected. This tension is incredibly inspiring.

Dorothea Winter has been living in Berlin for five years. Her decision to relocate was deliberate. “I moved here because I had a strong desire to live in Berlin,” she states, adding, “Berlin has always represented a place where one can not only work but also think freely and live independently.” For her, the German capital city is characterized by contrasts: wild and fragmented, yet highly academic and internationally connected. “This tension is incredibly inspiring. I can spend the morning working on a philosophical manuscript, attend a performance at the Haus der Kulturen der Welt in the afternoon, and engage in discussions with colleagues from around the world in the evening. Berlin fosters openness, which I deeply value.”

Another defining feature of Brain City Berlin is the proximity between theoretical inquiry and practical application. Dorothea Winter actively leverages this advantage to facilitate exchange and collaboration. “Berlin functions as a nexus in multiple respects. It hosts a dense network of universities, non-university research institutions, a vibrant cultural scene, and an international community,” she notes. “I can engage in discussions on machine learning with computer scientists at TU Berlin and, just a few streets away, explore the aesthetics of artificial intelligence with artists. This diversity and permeability constitute a significant advantage.” The pace of life in Berlin differs from that of other cities. “There is a more relaxed atmosphere here, which is also reflected in the academic environment. Collaborations emerge quickly, scholars are approachable, and it is easy to find networks and communities for intellectual exchange.”

Dorothea Winter encourages early-career researchers to take advantage of these qualities and to venture beyond their immediate academic circles. “In Berlin, the most compelling ideas often emerge at the intersections of science, politics, and art,” she asserts. The city offers opportunities to experiment with approaches that may not be feasible elsewhere, particularly for younger scholars. What is essential in this context is the courage to pursue independent thought. “Choose topics that are not only relevant but also genuinely meaningful to you. Otherwise, the work will not be fulfilling,” advises the Brain City Ambassador, drawing from personal experience. “And take Berlin seriously as a laboratory for intellectual exploration. Science is not an ivory tower—it thrives on openness, dialogue, and, at times, productive disruption.” (vdo)