Long Now

Neal Stephenson, a visionary author known for his speculative fiction like Cryptonomicon, joins journalist Charles C. Mann to discuss his new book, Polostan. They explore the intriguing themes of historical storytelling set against the backdrop of the Atomic Age. The conversation delves into the creative journey of writing, future challenges like climate change, and the role of women in history. They also touch on humor in exploration narratives and reflect on the complexities of historical events, offering listeners a rich tapestry of insights and ideas.

Alicia Escott and Heidi Quante discuss their participatory artwork The Bureau of Linguistical Reality, creating new words for unexplored feelings amidst the climate crisis. They delve into crafting neologisms, exploring emotions like longing and fear, and empowering individuals to reshape language to address global issues.

Dr. Jonathan Cordero discusses how indigenous epistemologies challenge capitalism and colonialism, emphasizing the importance of indigeneity and sovereignty. Topics include decolonization, settler colonialism, and the inspiration behind the work of the Association of Ramaytush Ohlone. The podcast explores the significance of indigenous knowledge in reshaping societal structures, the influence on ecological restoration, and the importance of tribal governance in preserving indigenous spirituality.

Delve into the myths of capitalism and the need for new economic narratives to serve humanity. Explore the influence of ancient traditions on shaping global economies and societies. Challenge the objectivity of economics and unveil power dynamics at play. Trace the evolution of profit concepts and analyze the societal construction of markets. Examine the impact of private equity on wealth transfer and job creation, while advocating for long-term thinking to reshape economic narratives.

Jared Farmer, an expert in chronodiversity and the study of time through trees, reflects on our long-term relationships with old trees. Topics discussed include: the cultural significance of ancient trees, the impact of climate change on ancient forests, conflicting perspectives on eucalyptus trees in California, success stories of tree protection, preserving trees throughout history, and the emotional motivation behind tree planting.

This podcast explores the manipulation and revision of history in various countries, emphasizing the importance of aligning history textbooks with the facts. It delves into the challenges of reconciling liberty and equality, reinventing democracy, and the impact of government education on public perception. The speaker also highlights the importance of being present in our actions, understanding history through biographies, and building understanding through respectful dialogue.

The podcast discusses the complex aftermath of globalization and the challenges it poses. Topics include the interconnectedness of the world, climate change, economic inequality, supply chain vulnerabilities, and mass migration. The speaker explores the centralized nature of global communications and manufacturing networks, the dangers of the military industrial complex, and insights from cybernetics for redesigning bureaucracy. They also discuss the perception of large language models and the limits of globalization. The podcast ends on an optimistic note, highlighting moments of collaboration and urging listeners to find hope in potential crises.

Scientific computation expert Coco Krumme dives into the history and consequences of optimization. She highlights the limitations and risks of streamlined systems, exploring their impact on resilience and perspectives. Krumme questions the societal bargains made in the name of optimization and urges us to consider alternatives.

Author Bette Adriaanse, Chelsea T. Hicks, Brian Eno, and Aqui Thami discuss property, sharing, and making lasting positive change in how we share the world. They explore contracts, trust, and embedded ideas in our laws, address wealth inequality and past injustices, and explore different approaches for individuals and communities to take responsibility for addressing inequality. They also discuss the connection between land and humanity, rematuation, and reconnecting to indigenous beliefs.

**Story & Performance Credits:** **Dodging the Apocalypse** story by Mark Alpert | Actor: Stuart Briggs | Video: Ruda Virginio | Score: Tristan de Liège **Victory Condition** story by Eliot Peper | Actor: Marilyn Pittman | Video: Back Pocket Media and Ruda Virgini | Found footage by: Chris Lange, Oscar Osbo, Robert Pullum, Sean Kirmani, Matt Trainor, Billy Bjork, Loren Hamilton, Panorama International Productions, Living with Fire_ The USGS Southern California Wildfire Risk Project | Score: Tristan de Liège **Glacial Elevation Operations** story by Kim Stanley Robinson | Actor: Conrad Cecil | Video: Alborz Kamalizad | Score: Tristan de Liège