RE-CARE is a young research collaboration founded in June 2024. In this initial phase, we are focusing on identifying shared areas of interest within a broad scientific discourse on crises, health, and technology. We view crises as both acute and enduring phenomena, deeply embedded in social contexts and shaped by a society’s culture and history. To assess their impact and explore the potential of technology, we are centering our interdisciplinary exchanges on five key areas.

Theoretical approaches to crises and health technologies

Theories offer insightful explanations that deepen our understanding of crises within their broader social and cultural contexts. One of the RE-CARE network’s key aims is to promote interdisciplinary dialogue on theoretical approaches that investigate the role and potential of technology in various crises. Through this exchange, we seek to examine how technology and crises shape individual experiences, as well as how individuals respond to technological developments. Moreover, we aim to explore the underlying logics of crises and technologies, taking into account the distinct cultural histories of technology and crisis in Japan and Germany.

Recent publications

Emerging health technologies

Technology has an inherently dual nature, capable of both mitigating and exacerbating crises. Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, the expanding use of drones for reconnaissance and medical supply delivery, and the proliferation of autonomous and interactive machines (e.g., smart cars and robots) are propelling a substantial wave of technological transformation. Our goal is to critically examine these developments, investigate their specific fields of application, and evaluate the potential of health technologies to bolster both individual and societal resilience.

Recent publications

Gender in crises

Crises not only introduce new gender-specific challenges but also intensify pre-existing inequalities. Worldwide, women and girls are disproportionately affected by poverty, violence, and limited access to healthcare and education, exacerbating their vulnerability in times of crisis. They often bear primary responsibility for caregiving and household management. Meanwhile, men are frequently expected to engage in armed conflicts, often leaving their families behind and, in the most tragic cases, sacrificing their lives. Our objective is to examine these dynamics through a transcultural gender lens, highlighting both divergences and commonalities.

Recent publications

Psychosocial impact of crises

In crisis scenarios such as pandemics, famines, wars, and earthquakes, individuals encounter various emotional challenges, including fear, grief, loneliness, and stress. These conditions can destabilize the social fabric, leading to increased aggression, isolation, and stigmatization. At the same time, the availability of support services, consistent communication, opportunities for physical activity, and robust social networks can foster and reinforce resilience. This research area focuses on the psychosocial dimensions of crises and investigates how technology can enhance resilience at both individual and collective levels.

Recent publications

Impact of crises on society and healthcare

During economic, political, or health crises, social inequalities often become more pronounced. Low-income and marginalized populations are disproportionately affected, as they typically have limited access to resources and consequently experience the most severe repercussions. In the health sector, crises frequently overburden infrastructure due to an intensified demand for medical services, while shortages of personnel and equipment can exacerbate these pressures and compromise the quality of care. Simultaneously, crises can spur innovation and reform, necessitating new solutions to address emerging challenges. This research area aims to investigate the complex developments associated with such crises.

Recent publications

This project is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The information contained on this website does not necessarily reflect the official position of the DFG.