Join critical futurist Johannes Kleske, who specializes in how societal narratives influence our perception of the future. He discusses the idea that our future visions are shaped by present-day stories, particularly in capitalism and AI. Kleske emphasizes the power of 'what if' scenarios in guiding organizational discussions, helping to visualize potential outcomes. The conversation also touches on the blend of culture and technology, illustrating how storytelling plays a crucial role in shaping our expectations and innovations.
Johannes Kleske emphasizes that envisioning the future serves as a tool for navigating and addressing present-day challenges.
The hosts reveal how cultural narratives significantly influence technological acceptance and the shaping of collective expectations about the future.
Deep dives
Navigating Birthdays and Illness
The hosts share personal updates, including one member celebrating his 54th birthday, accompanied by a humorous anecdote about receiving an amusing health-related birthday gift. A discussion unfolds around family celebrations, as they recount the timing of their birthdays, leading to a realization that a cluster of birthdays in a short timeframe can make Christmas feel rushed. The exchanges reveal the camaraderie among the group as they empathize with the challenges of balancing celebrations with life's responsibilities. Insightfully, they highlight how illness can shift dynamics at home, affecting daily routines and interactions.
Experiencing Advent and Reflection
Advent emerges as a prominent theme, particularly as one host recounts a long-desired experience of attending a candlelit Advent service at Westminster Abbey. He describes the magical ambiance of the service, with candles illuminating the space and creating a sense of transcendence within the gothic architecture. This shared experience initiates a broader discussion on traditions and the impact of seasonal events on family life. The hosts reflect on how rituals and community gatherings can enhance the holiday season, providing not only joy but also moments of introspection.
Discussing Uncertainty in Planning
An intriguing conversation pivots to the notion of uncertainty and how society navigates it, particularly in the context of economic investment and expectations for the future. Drawing from the insights of sociologist Jens Beckert, the hosts explore the narrative aspect of capitalism, emphasizing how collective stories shape perceptions of future returns. They underline the idea that a shared consensus about the future can influence behavior and decision-making, pointing to the power of collective belief in determining which visions of the future gain traction. This reinforces the significance of communication and storytelling in shaping societal outcomes.
Cultural Influences on Technology and Future Thinking
The dialogue highlights the relationship between culture and technology, emphasizing how societal narratives dictate technological evolution and acceptance. One host notes that cultural context often overshadows the technical aspects of innovation, revealing that successful technologies emerge from their alignment with cultural expectations and narratives. They argue that envisioning the future is akin to interpreting the past, as it relies on existing images, fears, and desires that influence decision-making processes. This insight fosters a deeper understanding of how organizations and individuals can better strategize by recognizing the storytelling power intrinsic to both future aspirations and past interpretations.
On this week’s show Matt and Julia talk with critical futurist Johannes Kleske about how the future is as much of a way to deal with the present as anything else.