Professional Ethics and the Digital Future: Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa

Recently, I had the privilege of meeting with future designers at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Department of Landscape Architecture, as a guest speaker for the "Landscape Architecture and Ethics" course. In an era where technology is radically reshaping our design practices, we closely examined the impact of artificial intelligence on professional integrity and representation.

Algorithms and Responsibility in Design

The limitless visual world offered by AI tools brings the question of "designer responsibility" to the forefront. During the session, we emphasized that a design is not merely an aesthetic output; ensuring the accuracy of the underlying ecological and social data is an ethical imperative. We conducted a critical analysis of AI’s potential to manipulate the reality of the landscape.

Ethical Boundaries of Digital Representation

We discussed the "gray areas" created by AI in visualization processes regarding originality and intellectual property rights. Our focus was on how a landscape architect can preserve the "Genius Loci" (the spirit of the place) and site memory while utilizing digital tools, and how to balance the pace of technology with core ethical values.

Academic Inquiry and Future Vision

Blended with the deep-rooted academic tradition of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, this course provided an excellent platform to discuss the digital reflections of theoretical knowledge in the practical world. It was truly impressive to see students approaching technology not just as users, but as critical and inquisitive designers.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Kart Aktaş for her kind invitation, as well as to the academic faculty and all the students of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Department of Landscape Architecture, for this meaningful encounter.