Future Starts Here: Adventures in the Twenty-First Century

The future is not set in stone, and it is up to us to create a better future. John Higgs argues that we should not trust science fiction predictions, that nature is not as helpless as we assume, and that purpose can never be automated.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 16 May 2019
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

The future has not yet occurred, and the notion that our civilization is doomed is not a universally accepted fact. Instead, it is a narrative that we create for ourselves.

In the 1980s, we lost hope for the future. When we gaze into the future today, we envision economic collapse, environmental disaster, and the zombie apocalypse. However, what if our assumptions are incorrect? What if this bleak outlook is a generational quirk that affected those born in the 20th century but is already beginning to fade? What if there is a future after all?

John Higgs, in his book "The Future of Everything," takes us on a journey beyond the technological hype and headlines to explore why we should be skeptical of science fiction's predictions, why nature is not as helpless as we believe, and why purpose cannot be automated. Through this exploration, we will gain a better understanding of what lies ahead and how, despite all the horrors and instability we face, we can create a better future.

One of the key themes of Higgs's book is that we should not trust the predictions of science fiction. Science fiction has often been used to explore the potential consequences of technological advancements and societal changes, but Higgs argues that these predictions are often based on flawed assumptions and unrealistic scenarios. For example, many science fiction stories depict a future in which robots and artificial intelligence have surpassed human intelligence and become dominant forces in society. Higgs argues that while technology can be a powerful tool, it is not capable of replacing human intelligence or creativity. Instead, he suggests that we should focus on developing technologies that enhance human capabilities and work alongside them rather than replace them.

Another theme of Higgs's book is that nature is not as helpless as we assume. Despite the many challenges that we face, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, nature has a remarkable ability to adapt and recover. Higgs argues that we need to shift our perspective and recognize the importance of nature in our lives. He suggests that we should work to protect and restore natural ecosystems, promote sustainable practices, and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. By doing so, we can help to mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.

Higgs also emphasizes the importance of purpose in our lives. He argues that purpose is not something that can be automated or outsourced, but is something that is deeply ingrained in our human nature. He suggests that we should seek out activities and relationships that give us a sense of purpose and meaning, and that we should work to create a society that values and supports these activities. By doing so, we can help to build a more resilient and fulfilling future for ourselves and for others.

In conclusion, the future has not yet occurred, and the notion that our civilization is doomed is not a universally accepted fact. Instead, it is a narrative that we create for ourselves. John Higgs's book "The Future of Everything" provides us with a valuable perspective on why we should be skeptical of science fiction's predictions, why nature is not as helpless as we believe, and why purpose cannot be automated. By embracing these themes and working towards a better future, we can help to create a more resilient and fulfilling world for ourselves and for future generations.

Weight: 628g
Dimension: 229 x 158 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474609395