What does it mean to be human in the future?

In this episode of Modem Futura, hosts Andrew and Sean get into the complexities of the future of being human, exploring the role of technology, innovation, and individual perspectives in shaping our collective futures. They discuss the importance of curiosity, creativity, and inclusivity in futures studies, while also reflecting on the historical context provided by figures like H.G. Wells. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to navigating technological advancements and the responsibility of individuals in co-creating the future.

Links:

• H.G. Wells 1902 / 1913 "The Discovery of the future" (available via HathiTrust)

Key Takeaways

• AI tools have seen a rise and fall in popularity.
• The Future of Being Human initiative aims to explore diverse perspectives.
• Future studies help us imagine and shape our futures.
• Individual futures are as important as collective futures.
• Technological advancements require careful navigation.
• Innovation is an inevitable part of being human.
• Curiosity and creativity are essential for future thinking.
• Inclusivity in discussions leads to richer insights.
• H.G. Wells laid the groundwork for future studies.
• Humanity is still evolving and not the final product.

Chapters (if you want to skip around)

00:00 The Rise and Fall of AI Tools

03:03 Exploring the Future of Being Human

05:52 The Purpose of Future Studies

09:04 Individual vs. Collective Futures

11:54 Navigating Technological Advancements

15:13 The Role of Innovation in Humanity

17:55 Guiding Principles for Future Thinking

20:51 Catalytic Serendipity and Inclusivity

24:05 Curiosity and Creativity in Future Studies

27:13 The Fragility of Human Existence

29:58 H.G. Wells and the Science of Futures

32:46 The Evolution of Humanity

36:07 Conclusion and Future Directions

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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