Thinkers & Ideas

Michael C. Jackson, a professor of management systems and former dean at Hull University Business School, discusses Critical Systems Thinking. He introduces the EPIC process, a practical framework for leaders to navigate complexity. The conversation critiques traditional MBA tools, highlighting the need for a holistic approach in modern business. Jackson also explores five unique perspectives on systems thinking, stressing the importance of diverse insights in problem-solving. The talk reveals how organizations can better embrace systems methodologies amidst contemporary challenges.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Nick Bostrom, a renowned philosopher and author focused on artificial intelligence, dives into concepts from his new book Deep Utopia. He envisions a future where AI could double the economy every few months and space colonization becomes feasible. Bostrom debates the realities of technological unemployment with skeptic Philipp Carlsson-Szlezak, exploring utopian ideals, including a taxonomy of utopias and the implications of universal basic income. With humor and insight, they tackle the philosophical and practical challenges posed by rapid AI advancements.

In The Great Disconnect: Hopes and Fears After the Excess of Globalization, Marco Magnani explores the factors that are driving the crisis of globalization we are currently experiencing.Magnani teaches international economics at LUISS University in Rome and Università Cattolica in Milan. Previously, he was a senior research fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and worked in investment banking for two decades. In his new book, he discusses the history of internationalization and the benefits that modern globalization has brought—as well as the drawbacks that have become increasingly apparent.Together with Martin Reeves, Chairman of the BCG Henderson Institute, Magnani discusses the causes of the increasing global disconnect—beyond U.S.-China tensions. He also lays out four scenarios for how globalization may play out, as well as practical tips for how executives can prepare for these different futures in a time of deep uncertainty.Key topics discussed: 01:19 | The great disconnect04:13 | The benefits and downsides of modern globalization07:21 | Future scenarios for globalization13:28 | What the history of internationalization reveals about where we are heading15:25 | Implications of AI for globalization16:33 | How globalization or de-globalization might play out in practice21:10 | Implications for businessesAdditional inspirations from Marco Magnani:Making the Global Economy Work for Everyone: Lessons of Sustainability from the Tech Revolution and the Pandemic (Palgrave Macmillan, 2022)Creating Economic Growth: Lessons for Europe (Palgrave Macmillan, 2014)

In this conversation, Carissa Carter, Director of Teaching and Learning at Stanford's d.school, and Scott Doorley, Creative Director at the same institution, dive into the unpredictable impacts of technology. They explore the emotional aspects of design, emphasizing how feelings can shape technology usage. The duo highlights the challenges posed by interconnected systems and advocates for a more holistic, human-centric design approach. They also discuss innovative solutions to anticipate design problems and the importance of embracing uncertainty in technology development.

Renowned behavioral economist Cass Sunstein discusses fame, skill vs. luck, Bach vs. Taylor Swift as the greatest composer, social influences on fame, business implications, and the art of manipulating information and reputation cascades.

Michael Norton, a Harvard Business School professor and expert in behavioral economics, delves into the fascinating world of rituals versus habits. He discusses how small rituals can bring purpose and pleasure to life, especially in the wake of COVID's disruption. Norton emphasizes the emotional significance of rituals for bonding and coping, and he shares innovative practices that have emerged during remote interactions. He also explores how rituals can enhance teamwork and even play a role in corporate mergers, redefining connections through shared actions.

Rebecca Homkes, a business strategy expert, shares her framework for leading through uncertainty - survive, reset, thrive. She discusses how to navigate uncertainty, survive shocks, reset strategies, and thrive long-term. Topics include the impact of AI on strategy, implementing the framework in personal life, and the balance between creative and competitive aspects of strategy.

Leading futurists Rita McGrath, Esther Dyson, and Gary Shteyngart discuss past predictions, the digital age, social media, science fiction, and methods for sensing the future. They explore predicting future trends, dystopian inspiration, human connections, and methods for contemplating the future. The podcast also touches on challenges in Korea's advanced economy, re-enchantment, permissionless organizations, potential disruption in advertising, and upcoming books and foresight.

Renowned author and Harvard Law School professor Cass Sunstein discusses the power of reevaluating the familiar with Martin Reeves. They explore habituation, dishabituation, and strategies to avoid mental models that limit adaptability in corporations and personal life.

Nobel Prize winner Venki Ramakrishnan discusses aging, longevity, and potential breakthroughs in prolonging healthy life. Topics include mechanisms of aging, interventions for longevity, societal implications, and the importance of clear communication in science.