Future Tense

Stuart Gietel Basten, a demographer from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, tackles pressing questions about our planet's future. He explores the paradox of an aging population needing more births while considering Earth's limited resources. The conversation dives into global consumption patterns and the concept of Earth Overshoot Day, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable practices. Gietel Basten advocates for innovative urban designs that accommodate diverse demographics, ensuring our cities evolve to meet the needs of both the elderly and younger generations.

South Korea is a test case in how to maintain democracy against sustained pressure from dictatorship. The innovative and entrepreneurial country lives in the shadow of China and Russia, and its capital Seoul lies only 50km from the North Korean border. It hasn't been easy, but the difficulties South Korea faces and the way it deals with them could prove invaluable for other regional neighbours in responding to future economic and military aggression.Journalist Matt Smith has this special report…GuestsDr Troy Lee Brown — Research Fellow, Defense and Security Institute, University of Western AustraliaProfessor Bec Strating — Director, La Trobe Asia and Professor of International Relations at La Trobe UniversityDr Mike Bosack — Special Advisor for Government Relations, Yokosuka Council for Asia-Pacific StudiesDongkeun Lee — Policy Fellow, Asia-Pacific Leadership NetworkDr Duyeon Kim — Adjunct Senior Fellow, Indo-Pacific Security Program, Centre for New American Security

Suffering internal division and stymied by geopolitical bullying, the United Nations is facing a future of diminishing influence. As the organisation marks its 80th birthday, it's also dealing with a serious financial shortfall brought on by both China and the United States, its two biggest donors. Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, has launched a major internal reform programme, but there are questions about whether his approach will rescue the global body or just cause further damage.GuestsAssociate Professor Chris Ogden — Director of Global Studies, University of AucklandEugene Chen — Senior Fellow, Center on International Cooperation, New York UniversityRichard Gowan — Director of UN Affairs, International Crisis GroupRoland Rich — former Australian ambassador. Director of the United Nations and Global Policy Master of Arts program, Rutgers University

In this discussion, Andrew Ellington, a synthetic biology professor from the University of Texas, and Kate Adamala from the University of Minnesota dive into the intriguing concept of mirror life. They explore innovative research on creating living cells from mirror image molecules that could revolutionize medicine. However, they raise critical concerns about ethical implications and potential catastrophic risks if these cells are uncontrolled. The conversation highlights the necessity for public dialogue and careful governance in advancing this groundbreaking research.

What will Earth look like when humans become extinct? What "technofossils" will paleontologists of the future unearth and no doubt ponder over? Will we be remembered for our achievements or merely our rubbish? Also, which animals might rise to fill our role at the top of the pecking order? And is the future of live music really as dire as many predict?GuestsProfessor Sarah Gabbott — Paleobiologist, University of LeicesterJoanna Thompson — Freelance science journalist based in New YorkDr Christen Cornell — Research Fellow and Manager of Research Partnerships, Creative AustraliaMusical artists heard in this episode - Jim Beavis, The RandomiZZZed ExperienceFurther informationListening In Research series

History has many lessons for how to develop a successful civilisation. The trick is to understand the patterns that lead to optimism and innovation. So, where do we rate in the 21st century? Also, why all history is revisionist and why a healthy sense of revisionism drives a deeper understanding of the past, present and future.GuestsJohan Norberg — author and historian. Senior Fellow, Cato institute in Washington DCAssociate Professor Sarah Percy — Political Science and International Studies, University of QueenslandDr James Banner — Historian and co-founder of the National Humanities Alliance

In this engaging discussion, Leo Crabe, an independent researcher and former diplomat, emphasizes the unique chance for Canada and Australia to influence global governance. Roy Green, a Special Innovation Advisor, introduces 'Ozanada,' a fictional nation symbolizing the potential union of the two countries. They explore why these close allies remain largely unfamiliar with each other, highlight the significance of strategic collaboration, and ponder how working together can enhance their roles on the world stage amidst global uncertainties.

In this discussion, Sean Watts, a law professor at West Point, Lee Fennell from the University of Chicago, and Barry de Vries, a research fellow at Justus Liebig University, explore the fragile state of international arms control. They delve into the resurgence of landmine use and the challenges posed by AI-controlled weapons. The guests debate the ethical dilemmas nations face between defense and treaty obligations amidst geopolitical tensions. Their insights highlight the nonlinear nature of progress in law and warfare, advocating for deeper reflection on societal change.

Steven Freeland, an Emeritus Professor and expert in space law, joins an intriguing discussion on moving data servers beyond Earth. They explore the potential of using solar energy in space for data storage, addressing both environmental concerns and the regulatory challenges this raises. The conversation touches on innovative projects aimed at establishing orbital and lunar data centers while navigating international treaties. With the rise of satellites and space debris, they also emphasize the importance of sustainable practices in this new frontier.

In this intriguing discussion, David Rieff, a writer and journalist, unpacks how forgetting can sometimes be a safer response to global issues. Scott Small, director of the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, emphasizes the benefits of normal forgetting for brain health. Oliver Hardt, a psychology professor, explores the balance between memory retention and the necessity of forgetting, hinting at how excessive memories can hinder creativity. Together, they reveal how science is reshaping our understanding of memory dynamics, advocating for the power of forgetting in personal and collective contexts.