top of page

Top down versus bottom up reconciliation.

Anonymous

April 26, 2023

Top down versus bottom up reconciliation.

This image was generated with Dream Studio AI.

I choose to speak about a happy 2040 and not about the one I fear. If we have progressed on a path of sustainable development, it is due to far better connections between top down and bottom up processes. So far, these connections are very scarce. Decision makers at the international levels are not aware of the most pressing challenges at the local levels and vice-versa. This creates at all levels the wrong perceptions linked to "complotism" in general. The main cause of this dialogues de sourds between local and global levels of policy-making is the hierarchy between economic, social and environmental goals, actors and processes. The borders between economics, social sciences and environmental sciences and the lack of transdisciplinary culture are largely responsible for this lack of mutual understanding and consideration. My hope is that in 2040 the borders between these political and scientific silos will be replaced by an overall focus on the difference between bottom up (cacophony of actors) and top down (hierarchy of institutions with economic ones at the top) actions and the elaboration of instruments which are needed to interconnect them.

related stories

hallo
cortinovis.fabio@inwind.it
In 2040, everyday life is profoundly transformed by technology. Cities are smart, with self-sufficient buildings using solar energy and self-driving transport networks. Autonomous cars are finally a reality, reducing road traffic and reducing polluting emissions. Artificial intelligence is embedded in every aspect of society: Virtual assistants manage the house, book appointments and optimize work activities. Remote working is the norm, with holograms replacing video calls, making meetings more immersive. Medicine has also made great strides. Thanks to biotechnology, genetic diseases have almost disappeared and nanotechnologies allow immediate treatment for many diseases. Human longevity has increased, with many people over 100 in excellent health. Education is fully personalised where students learn through interactive experiences. However, new challenges are emerging. Dependence on technology raises ethical and social issues, and humanity must address the delicate balance between progress and mental well-being. Overall, 2040 is an era of extraordinary possibilities, where innovation continues to redefine the way we live, work and interact with the world.
hallo
jukka.sarvi@gmail.com
I see a united Europe, a federation that decides by majority vote with binding force. Money is common. Europe mainly produces its own food, and agriculture is planned with the rest of the world in such a way that food is distributed, sold to everyone as needed. The population has decreased according to the carrying capacity of nature. There is no war in Europe and the war is over. There is one common army in the world, ,, that controls the entire ball. Europe is involved in this. The production of energy relies on wind and solar power, which has been built all over the world from common resources. Nuclear power is part of the energy mix. The state of nature has been improved and 30% of land and water areas are in their own peace without human intervention. All operations are financed from a single fund and the surplus is returned to this fund. Citizens have a living income (citizens' wages) and everyone is equal, but also obliged to work of their choice. The profit-seeking of companies and people is limited to a very small amount. Everyone has the right to vote and decisions are preceded by extensive civic surveys.
hallo
Nazioni padrone in casa propria
nations free from absurd restrictions dictated by awakened fanaticism, free in thought and actions, a Europe of nations master in their own home, with citizens free to move and operate without the restrictions of a fanatical and self-referenced ecological movement. Immigration is 100% controlled and restricted. Each state with its own traditions celebrated and handed down to their children. Western culture is always protected and safeguarded because it is the engine of our growth.
hallo
Frieden, Zufriedenheit, Miteinander
There are no borders or wars over countries and power. People change their lives when they want to go where they want to go. Every person is welcome everywhere, learns the language and habits, contributes there and earns a living. People help and support each other. Satisfaction, trust, togetherness, the focus is on us.
Join #OurFutures now!

The future is shaped by our ideas and our actions today. Tell us about your visions of the future and help us create a futures narrative aimed at inspiring citizens, policy-makers and foresight experts alike!

Our-futures-banner-coloured_v3.jpg

The European Commission support does not constitute endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained.

ERA_logo.jpg

We support the European Research Area aimed at creating a single, borderless market for research, innovation and technology in the EU.

©OurFutures 2025, All rights reserved.

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube
bottom of page