Future Tense

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

Chris Ogden, an Associate Professor and Global Studies Director, discusses how U.S. Republican efforts threaten UN funding and its influence. Eugene Chen, a Senior Fellow at NYU, highlights the UN's liquidity crisis exacerbated by funding cuts from both the U.S. and China. Richard Gowan, Director of UN Affairs, raises the issue of bureaucratic inefficiency while proposing reforms needed for sustainable change. The conversation reveals a complex geopolitical landscape where the UN's future hinges on financial stability and the ability to adapt to global shifts.

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