Futures

Envisioning Future Societies Through Science Fiction Prototyping, (from page 20230708.)

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Summary

The article discusses the role of science fiction in envisioning and designing future societies amid crises such as COVID-19, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts. It emphasizes the need for new narratives to imagine a better world and introduces the concept of science fiction prototyping, created by Professor Brian David Johnson. This method involves crafting stories based on scientific facts to explore the implications of technology on society, rather than merely forecasting future trends. The article outlines the five steps of sci-fi prototyping and provides an example, ‘Radical Ocean Futures’, which combines art and science to address ocean deterioration. Ultimately, it suggests that these imaginative exercises can inspire sustainable solutions and resilient strategies for a hopeful future.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Shift in Storytelling Methods Increasing use of science fiction as a tool for envisioning future scenarios. Transition from traditional scenario building to storytelling for future planning. In 10 years, storytelling will be a primary method for policy-making and strategic planning. Growing uncertainty in the world drives the need for imaginative and flexible future planning. 4
Integration of Non-Human Perspectives Emerging recognition of non-human entities in future narratives and decision-making. Change from human-centric narratives to inclusive stories featuring non-human entities. In a decade, legal rights for rivers and mountains may be commonplace, influencing environmental policy. Increasing awareness of ecological interdependence and the rights of nature. 5
Demand for Hopeful Narratives Growing need for optimistic futures amidst global crises like climate change and inequality. Shift from narratives of despair to those promoting hope and sustainability. In 10 years, hopeful narratives will guide social movements and policymaking for a sustainable future. Crisis fatigue leads society to seek inspiring and actionable visions for the future. 5
Art and Science Collaboration Collaborative projects merging scientific facts with creative storytelling. Moving from isolated scientific studies to interdisciplinary projects that engage broader audiences. In the future, art-science collaborations will be standard practice in addressing complex global issues. Recognition of the power of storytelling to communicate scientific concepts and engage the public. 4
Exploration of Multiple Futures Emphasis on preparing for various potential futures rather than a singular predicted outcome. From linear forecasting to a pluralistic approach in future planning. Future planning will incorporate diverse scenarios, enhancing resilience in policymaking. Increasing complexity and unpredictability in global challenges necessitates flexible strategies. 5

Concerns

name description relevancy
Climate Change Impact The prolonged effects of climate change could lead to severe ecological and societal disruptions. 5
Mass Migration Increased climate refugees could challenge existing social, political, and economic systems. 4
Systemic Inequality Inequality may deepen as crises unfold, potentially leading to social unrest and conflict. 5
Technological Ramifications The unanticipated consequences of emerging technologies could adversely affect daily life and societal structures. 4
Environmental Degradation Continued neglect of ecological systems could result in irreversible damage to our planet’s ecosystems. 5
Narrative Shifts Failure to create inclusive narratives may inhibit collective imagination and progress toward hopeful futures. 4
Legal Rights for Nature Recognizing legal rights for non-human entities could challenge existing legal frameworks and societal perceptions. 3
Future Preparedness Lack of flexible strategies for multiple possible futures could hinder effective responses to emerging crises. 4

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Futures Storytelling Utilizing narrative techniques to envision and shape potential futures, encouraging creativity and exploration of alternative realities. 5
Science Fiction Prototyping Creating fictional narratives based on scientific principles to explore societal impacts of technology and developments. 5
Multi-Futures Planning Preparing for multiple potential futures by incorporating flexibility and resilience into strategic planning. 4
Inclusive Character Representation Broadening character representation in narratives to include non-human entities, reflecting their emerging legal rights and roles. 4
Art-Science Collaboration Merging artistic expression with scientific facts to stimulate imagination and raise awareness on critical issues like climate change. 5

Technologies

description relevancy src
A method that uses storytelling to explore the implications of technology and social developments on society. 5 5d2fec6b3cc04645c92e73267da0f7d9
A project that combines art and science to envision sustainable ocean governance through creative narratives. 4 5d2fec6b3cc04645c92e73267da0f7d9
The blending of scientific facts with imaginative storytelling to stimulate innovative ideas for future challenges. 4 5d2fec6b3cc04645c92e73267da0f7d9

Issues

name description relevancy
Impact of Climate Change on Migration Extreme climate change is driving mass migration, raising concerns about systemic inequality and the need for adaptable societal structures. 5
Narratives for Hopeful Futures There is a growing need for new narratives that envision sustainable and equitable futures amidst ongoing global crises. 4
Science Fiction as a Tool for Exploration Utilizing science fiction prototyping helps explore the implications of technology on society, encouraging creative solutions to emerging challenges. 4
Legal Rights for Non-Human Entities The recognition of legal rights for rivers, mountains, and other non-human entities presents new ethical and legal frameworks for environmental governance. 4
Flexibility in Future Planning The necessity for flexible strategies to adapt to multiple potential futures rather than a singular forecast is becoming increasingly important. 5
Integration of Art and Science Projects like Radical Ocean Futures illustrate the merging of artistic expression with scientific fact to address environmental issues creatively. 3