Best intentions determine wellbeing, economic and political life.

Anonymous

April 26, 2023

Best intentions determine wellbeing, economic and political life.

This image was generated with Dream Studio AI.

In 2040, everyone acts upon their very best intentions for the planet and fellow human beings. “Value” is re-defined on the basis of that. Humans no longer feel the need to structure their life around activities that bring them economic value, in order to participate in this society.

Rather, equity is provided in this system, in the sense that human beings all have access to high-quality education, health care, and can enjoy further human rights, as identified in the UN Charter. Furthermore, the participation in society is valued on the basis of the contribution that individuals make to this social and ecological environment.

Focus on Human Wellbeing in a new economic system – a redefinition of economic value from GDP growth, towards social and ecological wellbeing takes place. Society is structured accordingly. This leads to a shift in the economic thinking, and allows for de-growth to occur.

New Political System – technological innovations enable transparency and new ways of political decision-making. Political power is redistributed in a way that decisions are weighed upon best intentions, and best mid-term and long-term outcomes. Political priorities are collectively decided upon, but for sure: the ecological boundaries are not crossed. It is no longer important who holds political power, since the best intentions and collective priorities are the key within the political system. Hence, the power of the nation-state considerably declines. The agenda of the United Nations is no longer determined by the national interests of the main member states, but becomes an even better reflection of the General Will (as coined by Rousseau).

Overall, I have hopes about the empowerment of technological innovations for grassroots innovation. There are many people who strive for their dreams and ideals, and it’s fascinating to see how many children at some point have the following question on their mind: how can I contribute to a better world? The changing information infrastructure facilitates a bottom-up generation of ideas in our society.

Simultaneously, I feel despair for the challenges that human greed cause for humanity. Globalisation may disfavour the world’s poorest regions and spur a concentration of social and economic wealth, while the earth planetary boundaries are crossed. This can challenge the continuation of life on earth, and necessitate drastic transitions in our political, social and economic systems. Ideally, we ensure that we can progress on these transitions, before we have to experience the dire consequences of current trends in society.

Memoiren

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Den gröna framtiden

I would like to see a future where there has been a major change for the benefit of the environment and the future of the planet. Solar, wind and hydropower have replaced fossil energy sources. Buildings, houses, etc. are equipped to be self-sufficient both in terms of energy and, for example, basic raw materials such as potatoes and the like. Public transport has switched entirely to electric vehicles and there are incredible high-speed trains that can compete with flights between major cities.

Naturen er reddet

You have invented a technology that effectively breaks down CO2 from the atmosphere and you are back to a world without climate change. The gardens are healthy with beautiful coral reefs and full of fish. In the North there is winter with long periods of snow. Farther south in Europe there are rarer forest fires and normal amounts of rain that give good breeding. There are no climate refugees. They appreciate nature more and seek it out often. Animal welfare is also an important focus area and you eat less meat. Smartphones and computers are used less often, and you are less accessible by phone/mail both privately and at work.

Podróże w czasie

In 2040, the world looked very different than it did twenty years ago. Poland has become a peaceful, safe and united country around common values. The streets were clean, the cities well organized, and people lived in harmony, valuing their traditions and culture. There was an atmosphere of tranquility in the towns, with children playing in the backyards without fear, the elderly walking in the parks, and the neighbours knowing each other and helping each other in their daily lives. Local communities thrived and small family businesses thrived, supported by modern technologies and a conscious approach to the economy. There were no problems with crime or riots. The authorities have made sure that the country develops in a sustainable and safe way. Young people had good prospects – they could educate themselves at a high level, develop their passions and be sure that they would find a decent job. Thanks to a wise economic policy, Poland became self-sufficient – agriculture flourished, domestic companies produced modern technologies, and people enjoyed stability and prosperity. Society was united, proud of its history and ready to build the future in accordance with its own values. In the evening, sitting on the terrace of his house, John looked at the quiet streets and felt gratitude. He knew that his children were growing up in a world where they could feel safe, respect their roots and build a better future for generations to come.

Aucun

Au réveil, les machines préparent le petit déjeuner que j'ai l'habitude de prendre (café, pain grillé et un fruit). Mes vêtements sont prêts et se mettent automatiquement sur moi. Je prends des transports en commun qui vont vite, vole et permettent d'arriver rapidement sur son lieu de travail. Ce n'est pas très durable mais c'est pratique. Le vélo est devenu une activité en perte de vitesse car c'est moins rapide. La société va toujours plus vite. Tout est informatisé et ne permet pas d'avoir trop d'interaction sociale et c'est un bat qui blesse. Pour la vie de famille, cela reste tous ensemble dans la même maison mais cela ne permet pas vraiment de se croire en famille car chacun est plus isolé devant un appareil électrique qui occupe son temps libre

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