Ruha Benjamin, a Princeton professor and MacArthur Fellow, dives into the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in academia. She critiques tokenism and discusses the struggle for genuine systemic change. The conversation also explores how privilege shapes empathy and understanding in political contexts. Additionally, they examine innovative approaches to education and the impact of AI on society, highlighting the necessity of diverse perspectives in both fields.

Welcome to the end of Flash Forward. This is the first episode in our three-part show finale!! As I say goodbye to Flash Forward, I wanted to leave you all with a rumination on how to think about the future. How do you stay hopeful? How do we imagine better futures? How do we actually GET those better futures? This is my three-part love letter to you all, and to tomorrow. ✨ BECOME A TIME TRAVELER ✨Guests:Jack Shepherd — former editorial director BuzzFeed, author of On Words and Up Words newsletter, co-host of Strange Bedfellows podcastDr. Adam Mastroianni — postdoctoral research scholar at Columbia Business School and author of Experimental History newsletter Liz Neeley — science communicator and founder of Liminal Dr. Ruha Benjamin — professor of African American studies at Princeton University and author of Viral Justice: How We Grow the World We Want→ → →  Further reading & resources here! ← ← ← This episode of Flash Forward was written by me, Rose Eveleth; edited by Avery Trufelman; produced by Ozzy Llinas Goodman and sound designed by Ariana Martinez. Much of the music in this episode is by Ilan Blanck. The outro music is by Hussalonia. The episode art is by Mattie Lubchansky. Special thanks to Libby Larsen, who read Plates by Ethan Leos Verne; Emily C, who read Nailbunny’s post; Afi Yellow Duke who read “Sorrow is Not My Name” by Ross Gay; and Marge Piercy who read her poem “To be of use.”Poems Credits“Sorrow Is Not My Name” from Bringing the Shovel Down by Ross Gay, Ⓒ 2011. Aired by permission of University of Pittsburgh Press.“To be of use” by Marge Piercy Copyright ©1973, 1982 by Marge Piercy From CIRCLES ON THE WATER, Alfred A. Knopf. Used by permission of Robin Straus Agency, Inc.

Sociologist Ruha Benjamin discusses a future where technology uplifts ordinary people and addresses issues like healthcare and housing. The podcast explores contrasting visions of the future with Silicon Valley and Hollywood, the consequences of prioritizing technological advancements, the impact of tech hubs on inequality, and the importance of strengthening the social fabric. Benjamin encourages listeners to consider their impact on overlooked communities.

Virginia Morell, a contributing correspondent for Science, discusses a study challenging the 'landscape of fear' concept regarding apex predators in Yellowstone. Michael Ishida, a postdoctoral researcher, explains paleorobotics and how robotic models of extinct creatures can reveal insights into evolutionary history. Ruha Benjamin, a Princeton professor, talks about her book "Imagination: A Manifesto," emphasizing the crucial role of imagination in driving social change and envisioning radical futures.

Ruha Benjamin, a Princeton professor and author, delves into the concept of 'us-topia' as a means to envision a collective future through agency. She discusses the role of technology in promoting equity, highlighting Barcelona’s Decidim app for civic engagement. Aaron Robertson, writer of "The Black Utopians," explores the intersection of imagination and activism, reflecting on the influence of 1960s Black thinkers. Together, they advocate for a future built on inclusive values that challenge societal inequalities while fostering community empowerment.