Future Tense

S. J. Beard, a Senior Research Associate at Cambridge University and author of "Existential Hope," delves into the balance between existential hope and fear, particularly in the face of threats like climate change and AI. He emphasizes the power of community and collective responsibility in addressing these issues. In contrast, Neil Selwyn, Professor at Monash University and author of "Digital Degrowth," critiques current digital trends and advocates for decoupling technology from consumer capitalism to foster sustainability and shared values.

In this discussion, Sarah Lothian, an expert in marine conservation law, Shane Keating, an innovator using AI for shipping, and Julian Barbiere from UNESCO dive into the High Seas Treaty and its role in marine biodiversity. They explore the challenges of global ratification and emphasize the need for cooperation over competition on the oceans. Insights into how uncrewed surface vehicles enhance climate monitoring and the optimization of shipping routes using advanced technology reveal the potential for sustainable ocean use. It's a captivating dive into our oceans' future!

Join Paul Harrison, a consumer behavior expert from Deakin University, and Alex Curmi, a consultant psychiatrist, as they unpack the intricate relationship between convenience and our lives. They discuss how our evolutionary bias for convenience can lead to detrimental social and economic consequences. The conversation touches on the paradox of hyper convenience, the impact on health and resilience, and the hidden costs of a disposable mindset. Listeners are encouraged to reevaluate their consumption habits and reflect on what truly brings fulfillment.

Marion Oswald, a Professor of Law specializing in the ethics of technology in policing, joins former Police Chief Philip Lukens and Nick Evans from the Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement Studies. They discuss the transformative potential of AI in law enforcement, emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines and human oversight. The trio highlights the challenges of bias in algorithmic systems, the importance of transparency, and concerns about police militarization impacting public trust. A riveting exploration of the balance between innovation and accountability!

In this insightful discussion, Jon Whittle, Director at CSIRO, unveils the complexities of AI and its real impact on productivity. Jovan Kurbalija from the Diplo Foundation introduces 'Magic Realism' as a novel approach to AI regulation, emphasizing the importance of balancing creativity with governance. Andreas Schleicher, from the OECD, highlights alarming declines in literacy and problem-solving skills, raising concerns about technology's role in widening skill disparities. Together, they navigate the intertwined futures of technology, education, and societal evolution.

In this engaging discussion, Philip Minderhoud, an expert in land subsidence from Wageningen University, and Anna Hurlimann, a researcher in urban planning from the University of Melbourne, tackle the alarming trend of sinking cities. They reveal that our thirst for water and rapid urban development play critical roles in this phenomenon. The duo calls for a reassessment of urban strategies to address climate impacts, emphasizing the need for sustainable water usage and resilient infrastructure as cities struggle with rising sea levels and subsidence challenges.

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.