IMAGINIZE.World

Debbie Urbanski, author of the book "After World," discusses the themes and ideas behind her speculative fiction novel in an interview with Jane McConnell. The book explores the concept of the end of humanity as both an end and a beginning, depending on one's perspective and where the story starts and ends. Urbanski delves into topics such as AI, climate change, and the relationship between humans and other species. She also discusses the role of technology, the importance of storytelling, and the potential for a new awakening in a post-human world. The conversation touches on the need to prioritize the preservation of the planet and its biodiversity, the role of youth in addressing climate change, and the potential for AI to be a force for good. Urbanski emphasizes the importance of valuing non-human species and the need for collective action to address the challenges of climate change. The interview concludes with a discussion of Urbanski's underlying purpose in writing "After World" and her hopes for the book's impact. IMAGINIZE.WORLD takes you beyond our familiar boundaries. You'll discover how forward thinkers, scifi visionaries and pioneering organizations see the future. You'll learn to imagine your future and develop ideas to move in that direction. Also see A Global Vision for 2043 from 200 people around the world.

Mark Gröb, a futurist and pioneer of virtual reality, discusses the use of immersive technology, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), at UPS. He explains that immersive tech provides a human interface to digital data and can be used to enhance learning, training, and safety in various industries. For example, UPS uses VR and mixed reality (MR) to train drivers on safe driving practices and package handling. The technology allows for realistic simulations and interactive experiences that accelerate learning and improve retention. Gröb emphasizes the importance of involving subject matter experts and employees in the design and implementation of immersive tech solutions. He also discusses the potential impact of immersive technology on education, predicting that it will augment learning and provide teachers with tools to enhance the learning experience. Gröb advises companies interested in implementing immersive tech to find passionate individuals within their organization and be open to experimentation and failure. He also suggests seeking support from industry associations and communities. IMAGINIZE.WORLD takes you beyond our familiar boundaries. You'll discover how forward thinkers, scifi visionaries and pioneering organizations see the future. You'll learn to imagine your future and develop ideas to move in that direction. Also see A Global Vision for 2043 from 200 people around the world.

Chen Qiufan, who also goes by Stanley Chen,  is a world-renown science fiction author, humanist and futurist.  In this conversation, he discusses his views on science fiction and how he sees himself as a storyteller rather than just a science fiction writer. He believes that science fiction should go beyond the boundaries of traditional scifi and explore interdisciplinary topics, including spirituality and mysticism. He also talks about the importance of reflecting on the past and how it shapes our future. Stanley emphasizes the need for new narratives and expanding the concept of science fiction to address the complexities of the modern world. He touches on the role of AI in various industries such as healthcare, insurance, and education, highlighting both the benefits and potential harms. Stanley expresses his concern for the loss of purpose and the need for individuals to find their own sense of worth, especially young people. He also discusses the issue of inequality and the plight of invisible people in society. Stanley believes that AI may reunite humans as a species and that imagination is essential to shape the future. IMAGINIZE.WORLD takes you beyond our familiar boundaries. You'll discover how forward thinkers, scifi visionaries and pioneering organizations see the future. You'll learn to imagine your future and develop ideas to move in that direction. Also see A Global Vision for 2043 from 200 people around the world.