Summary
Whenever we make changes, we affect the lives of people in the future -- and that responsibility can feel enormous. In this talk, Devon Powers will share some of her research into people who forecast the future for a living, revealing their strategies as well as their pitfalls. She will also discuss how you can engage in research with a sense of responsibility for tomorrow.
Key Insights
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Imagining futures requires addressing real issues rather than idealized visions.
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Technology does not inherently solve society's problems; it often amplifies them.
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Optimism in future visions can lead to neglect of critical challenges.
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A focus on idealism can obscure underlying societal issues.
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Trend forecasting shapes both predictions and cultural narratives about the future.
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Afro-futurism offers a paradigm shift by centering diverse experiences in future narratives.
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Accountability in futurism is crucial; failing to acknowledge impacts can lead to harmful outcomes.
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Diversity and global perspectives are essential in formulating equitable futures.
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The future is not a 'toy'; it requires serious consideration of consequences.
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Realistic futures must include ongoing struggles and historical reckonings.
Notable Quotes
"The days of polyanna-ish futures are over; there is simply too much at stake."
"Technology does not solve our problems; it brings all the things we struggle with in the real world."
"We need to face the idea that the future will be struggle, not escape."
"Diversity initiatives without accountability are hollow."
"The future is not a toy; it's not a plaything."
"We have to reckon with the past as we envision the future."
"Sober optimism means facing challenges while believing in the possibility of change."
"Innovation can be tracked as it moves across a population and industry."
"The most important changes can be the most mundane, like clean water and food security."
"We need to think critically about who we are imagining futures for."
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