The Great Simplification with Nate Hagens

History for Tomorrow: Uncovering Future Possibilities from Humanity’s Past with Roman Krznaric

Sep 25, 2024

In a captivating discussion, social philosopher Roman Krznaric sheds light on the wisdom of past civilizations in facing modern crises. He explores 'temporal intelligence' to harness collective action and grassroots movements for a sustainable future. Krznaric highlights successful historical examples, such as Valencia's grassroots water court, to inspire new democratic models. He calls for ritualistic connections to ecology, innovative energy transitions, and rethinking corporate structures, emphasizing the power of community-driven solutions for planetary well-being.

01:39:33

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Roman Krznaric

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Quick takeaways

Historical lessons emphasize the importance of collective action and governance in overcoming crises while adapting systems for future challenges.

Temporal intelligence enables societies to draw insights from historical experiences, fostering effective decision-making and community resilience during tumultuous times.

Reimagining democracy through participatory practices can enhance inclusivity and accountability, empowering communities to drive meaningful policy changes and foster social trust.

Deep dives

Possibilities Over Probabilities

The focus on possibilities rather than probabilities underscores a paradigm shift in how we perceive challenges. Emphasizing radical hope, the idea suggests that change is possible even when the odds appear stacked against instigators. This perspective encourages individuals to take proactive steps in response to crises, rather than resigning to defeatism. The historical context showcases that humanity has continuously adapted and recalibrated systems in times of turmoil, reinforcing the need for active participation in shaping a favorable future.

Embrace the Past for Sustainable Futures

00:43

Legacy Over Momentary Choices

01:27

Question the Roots of Democracy

01:21

Empower Citizens for Lasting Change

01:10

Intro

3min

Temporal Intelligence: Learning from History

21min

Learning Altruism Through Historical Examples

2min

Rituals and Ecological Awareness

7min

The Role of Social Innovation in Energy Transition

20min

Rethinking Democracy: Lessons from the Past

30min

Lessons from Historical Sustainability

12min

Transforming Corporate Ownership for a Sustainable Future

2min

Exploring Temporal Intelligence for Future Possibilities

3min

(Conversation recorded on August 5th, 2024)

While the global crises we face are on a larger scale than anything before, there is rich wisdom to glean from past civilizations who have faced existential challenges and survived – or even thrived. What lessons might we learn from history that could offer guidance for our future?

In this episode, Nate is joined by social philosopher Roman Krznaric to discuss ways we might govern or lead during moments of crisis, using the lens of former and current civilizations.

What lessons have we forgotten when it comes to being in community with and listening to each other? How have our ideas and expectations of the future been informed by seeing history as a story of individuals shaping the rise and fall of civilizations, rather than a collective effort? How could learning from the past to create better democracies, wiser natural resource stewardship, and more circular economies help us prioritize human and planetary well-being?

About Roman Krznaric:

Roman Krznaric is a social philosopher who writes about the power of ideas to create change. His internationally bestselling books, including The Good Ancestor, Empathy and Carpe Diem Regained, have been published in more than 25 languages. He is Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing and founder of the world’s first Empathy Museum. His new book is History for Tomorrow: Inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity.

After growing up in Sydney and Hong Kong, Roman studied at the universities of Oxford, London and Essex, where he gained his PhD in political science. His writings have been widely influential amongst political and ecological campaigners, education reformers, social entrepreneurs and designers. An acclaimed public speaker, his talks and workshops have taken him from a London prison to the TED global stage.

Roman is a member of the Club of Rome and a Research Fellow of the Long Now Foundation. He previously worked as a gardener, a conversation activist and on human rights issues in Guatemala. He is also a top-ranked player of the medieval sport of real tennis.

Show Notes and More Watch this video episode on YouTube

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