Feeding not only the planet, but also the soul of the world. USI at EXPO 2015

For those involved in research and higher education, as well as for students, the theme of the Universal Exposition in Milano provides the opportunity to consider one’s own activities and to question the very mission of an institution such as the university: what world are we contributing to build?

USI has decided to accept this challenge by responding to the invitation of the Canton Ticino to take part in a rich and varied programme, with informal moments among the various figures of the academic community, and with a roundtable discussion featuring Mario Botta, Antonio Lanzavecchia, Lorenzo Cantoni, Antonietta Mira, Mauro Pezzè and Carlo Ossola. The leading USI faculty, moderated by RSI Director Maurizio Canetta, will discuss together with the audience on how architecture, biomedicine, communication, ‘big data’ economics, informatics and literature can come together and find innovative solutions to discuss the emergence of a new humanism and a new concept of citizenship that can combine the complexities of today’s science, medicine and technology – elements that are increasingly global but at the same time more and more fragmented.

How can we build an intelligent future that will provide genuinely better life conditions for humankind and for the planet on which we live? In a historical context defined by uncertainty and the feeling of being in a crisis, what is required to believe in a ‘livable’ future for all and in a common good acknowledged as such? The theme of nutrition is the common ground for the panel discussion on the meaning of civilisation and our future that the moderator and the six panelists will elaborate with an interdisciplinary approach among three main topics: our transformed everyday lives, the new heritage offered by ‘big data’, and food as a community parameter.

During the roundtable discussion, the Swiss Pavilion stage will feature the Flying City, a concept developed by architect Riccardo Blumer and his students. Over 20 models of buildings, some designed by acclaimed architects, will rise from the stage and float, creating a sort of ideal dance between new technology and the growing relational imperatives in the design of the cities of tomorrow. A unique way to show the EXPO crowd the image of a dynamic and forward-looking Canton.

For information: www.expo2015.usi.ch