Worlds of Uncertainty: War, Philosophies and Projects for Order

Peter Haldén's book Worlds of Uncertainty challenges the common belief in an uncertain world by showing the predictable nature of modern society and arguing that human beings create predictability through norms, laws, trust, and collaboration. He argues that between these two extremes lie positions that recognize the principal unpredictability of the world but seek pragmatic ways of navigating through it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In recent years, the world has been plagued by immense uncertainty and unpredictability, with events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, political turmoil, climate change, and the ongoing war in Europe. While many people believe that the world is inherently uncertain, Peter Haldén offers a nuanced perspective through a historical analysis of worldviews. He challenges the common belief by demonstrating the predictable nature of modern society and arguing that human beings can create predictability through norms, laws, trust, and collaboration.

Haldén reveals that since the Renaissance, two worldviews have defined Western civilization. The first view posits that the world is knowable and governed by laws, regularities, mechanisms, or plans, allowing for control and the possibility of foreseeing the future. The second view asserts that the world is governed by chance, making prediction and control impossible, resulting in inevitable shocks and surprises.

In his book, Worlds of Uncertainty, Haldén argues that there are positions that fall between these two extremes. These positions recognize the principal unpredictability of the world but seek pragmatic ways to navigate through it. He suggests that by acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the world, we can develop strategies and tools to manage its challenges effectively.

One of the key insights of Worlds of Uncertainty is that human beings have the ability to shape their environment and create a sense of order and stability. This is achieved through the establishment of norms, laws, and social structures that provide guidelines for behavior and decision-making. By adhering to these norms and working together, individuals and societies can mitigate the risks associated with uncertainty and build resilience to unexpected events.

Haldén also emphasizes the importance of trust in navigating the world of uncertainty. Trust is built through relationships, communication, and shared experiences, and it plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration and cooperation. When people trust each other, they are more likely to work together to address challenges and find solutions.

Furthermore, Haldén suggests that collaboration is key to navigating the world of uncertainty. By working together, individuals and societies can pool their resources, expertise, and knowledge to address complex problems. This can lead to the development of innovative solutions and the creation of new opportunities for growth and development.

In conclusion, Worlds of Uncertainty provides a valuable perspective on the world of uncertainty by challenging the common belief that the world is inherently unpredictable. Through a historical analysis of worldviews and a focus on the predictable nature of modern society, Haldén offers practical strategies for navigating through the challenges posed by uncertainty. By acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the world, developing norms, laws, trust, and collaboration, and seeking pragmatic ways to navigate through it, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future.

ISBN-13: 9781009392686