Future Tense https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/ en Copyright 2026, Australian Broadcasting Corporation. All right reserved. A critical look at new technologies, new approaches and new ways of thinking, from politics to media to environmental sustainability. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/e3c22700-f24a-11ee-9eea-4b450530391c/image/ba47ba19e4d01ad100aa5c0c1d3faf06.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress Future Tense https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/ no episodic A critical look at new technologies, new approaches and new ways of thinking, from politics to media to environmental sustainability. ABC Australia A critical look at new technologies, new approaches and new ways of thinking, from politics to media to environmental sustainability. The danger of generational labelling https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-danger-of-generational-labelling/105884536 Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back. Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes. So why are generational labels so popular? Original broadcast on February 9, 2025. Guests Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth. Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia Further information Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels  Pew Research Center's response Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back. Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes. So why are generational labels so popular? Original broadcast on February 9, 2025. Guests Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth. Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia Further information Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels  Pew Research Center's response Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back. Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes. So why are generational labels so popular? Original broadcast on February 9, 2025. Guests Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth. Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia Further information Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels  Pew Research Center's response Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back.

Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes.

So why are generational labels so popular?

Original broadcast on February 9, 2025.

Guests

Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth.

Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland

Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University

Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia

Further information

Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels 

Pew Research Center's response

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]]> 1806 Civility, trash talking and more sociable cities https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/civility-trash-talking-and-more-sociable-cities/105872060 It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here? We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities. And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable? Original broadcast on March 23, 2025. Guests Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University Further information Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage Keith Bybee - How Civility Works Sociable Cities Project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 08 Jan 2026 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here? We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities. And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable? Original broadcast on March 23, 2025. Guests Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University Further information Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage Keith Bybee - How Civility Works Sociable Cities Project It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here? We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities. And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable? Original broadcast on March 23, 2025. Guests Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University Further information Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage Keith Bybee - How Civility Works Sociable Cities Project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here? We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities. And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable?

Original broadcast on March 23, 2025.

Guests

Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW

Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project

Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author

Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University

Further information

Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage

Keith Bybee - How Civility Works

Sociable Cities Project

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Frozen frogs, tissues and cells — the health and environmental benefits of keeping it chill https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/frozen-frogs-tissues-and-cells-cyropreservation/105872050 Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity. Original broadcast on October 27, 2024. Guests Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada. Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia Further information Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 01 Jan 2026 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity. Original broadcast on October 27, 2024. Guests Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada. Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia Further information Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity. Original broadcast on October 27, 2024. Guests Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada. Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia Further information Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity.

Original broadcast on October 27, 2024.

Guests

Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada.

Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University

Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance

Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia

Further information

Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Building a new social contract  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/building-a-new-social-contract-/105872054 There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century?  Original broadcast on January 28. 2024. Guests Professor Sandra Sucher – Professor of Management Practice, Harvard Business School  Dave Cook – Department of Anthropology, University College London  Aron Cramer – President and CEO, BSR – Business for Social Responsibility  Professor Marc Fleurbaey – Paris School of Economics  Further information IPSP - International Panel on Social Progress report Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 Dec 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century?  Original broadcast on January 28. 2024. Guests Professor Sandra Sucher – Professor of Management Practice, Harvard Business School  Dave Cook – Department of Anthropology, University College London  Aron Cramer – President and CEO, BSR – Business for Social Responsibility  Professor Marc Fleurbaey – Paris School of Economics  Further information IPSP - International Panel on Social Progress report There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century?  Original broadcast on January 28. 2024. Guests Professor Sandra Sucher – Professor of Management Practice, Harvard Business School  Dave Cook – Department of Anthropology, University College London  Aron Cramer – President and CEO, BSR – Business for Social Responsibility  Professor Marc Fleurbaey – Paris School of Economics  Further information IPSP - International Panel on Social Progress report Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century? 

Original broadcast on January 28. 2024.

Guests

Professor Sandra Sucher – Professor of Management Practice, Harvard Business School 

Dave Cook – Department of Anthropology, University College London 

Aron Cramer – President and CEO, BSR – Business for Social Responsibility 

Professor Marc Fleurbaey – Paris School of Economics 

Further information

IPSP - International Panel on Social Progress report

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]]> 1806 Whatever happened to...? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/whatever-happened-to-/105872124 Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology.  Original broadcast on November 24, 2024. Guests Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York  Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge  Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology.  Original broadcast on November 24, 2024. Guests  Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York  Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge  Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass' Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology.  Original broadcast on November 24, 2024. Guests Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York  Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge  Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology. 

Original broadcast on November 24, 2024.

Guests

Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York 

Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars

Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge 

Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass'

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1807 A Future Tense retrospective  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-future-tense-retrospective-/105872066 This is the program’s final episode and, as such, we look back over the past 17 years. What did the future look like back in 2009 when the show first aired? What have been the major trends during that time? Which predictions came to fruition and which didn’t? And what cautions do our guests have as we look ahead?  Guests Mica Sifry – US-based writer and editor  Neema Singh Guliani – lawyer and policy expert  Cory Doctorow – Canadian-British blogger, journalist and sci-fi author   Professor Michael Mann – climatologist and geophysicist  Associate Professor James Dyke - Earth Systems Science, University of Exeter   Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Faculty of Society and Design, Bond University  Professor Quassim Cassam – Department of Philosophy, University of Warwick  Associate Professor Laura D’Olimpio – School of Education, University of Birmingham  Effy – chatbot user  Professor Frank Pasquale – Cornell Tech and Cornell Law School Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Dec 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia This is the program’s final episode and, as such, we look back over the past 17 years. What did the future look like back in 2009 when the show first aired? What have been the major trends during that time? Which predictions came to fruition and which didn’t? And what cautions do our guests have as we look ahead?  Guests  Mica Sifry – US-based writer and editor  Neema Singh Guliani – lawyer and policy expert  Cory Doctorow – Canadian-British blogger, journalist and sci-fi author   Professor Michael Mann – climatologist and geophysicist  Associate Professor James Dyke - Earth Systems Science, University of Exeter   Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Faculty of Society and Design, Bond University  Professor Quassim Cassam – Department of Philosophy, University of Warwick  Associate Professor Laura D’Olimpio – School of Education, University of Birmingham  Effy – chatbot user  Professor Frank Pasquale – Cornell Tech and Cornell Law School This is the program’s final episode and, as such, we look back over the past 17 years. What did the future look like back in 2009 when the show first aired? What have been the major trends during that time? Which predictions came to fruition and which didn’t? And what cautions do our guests have as we look ahead?  Guests Mica Sifry – US-based writer and editor  Neema Singh Guliani – lawyer and policy expert  Cory Doctorow – Canadian-British blogger, journalist and sci-fi author   Professor Michael Mann – climatologist and geophysicist  Associate Professor James Dyke - Earth Systems Science, University of Exeter   Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Faculty of Society and Design, Bond University  Professor Quassim Cassam – Department of Philosophy, University of Warwick  Associate Professor Laura D’Olimpio – School of Education, University of Birmingham  Effy – chatbot user  Professor Frank Pasquale – Cornell Tech and Cornell Law School Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is the program’s final episode and, as such, we look back over the past 17 years. What did the future look like back in 2009 when the show first aired? What have been the major trends during that time? Which predictions came to fruition and which didn’t? And what cautions do our guests have as we look ahead? 

Guests

Mica Sifry – US-based writer and editor 

Neema Singh Guliani – lawyer and policy expert 

Cory Doctorow – Canadian-British blogger, journalist and sci-fi author  

Professor Michael Mann – climatologist and geophysicist 

Associate Professor James Dyke - Earth Systems Science, University of Exeter  

Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Faculty of Society and Design, Bond University 

Professor Quassim Cassam – Department of Philosophy, University of Warwick 

Associate Professor Laura D’Olimpio – School of Education, University of Birmingham 

Effy – chatbot user 

Professor Frank Pasquale – Cornell Tech and Cornell Law School

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Is AI really taking over the internet? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/is-ai-really-taking-over-the-internet-/105872030 How many of the articles you see on the internet are actually written by AI, not by humans? We'll give you a figure based on the latest research. Also, why is Google moving away from its well-established search-engine algorithm in favour of AI-generated summaries; The importance of remembering that urban planning isn't just about buildings, it's about people and spaces; And how digital technology is opening up a new relationship between humans and animals. Guests Megan Morrone – Tech editor, Axios  Dr Collin Jennings – academic and author  David George Holm – architect and author  Dr David Roberts - Associate Professor of Computer Science, North Carolina State University  Sari – the most adorable, black cat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia How many of the articles you see on the internet are actually written by AI, not by humans? We'll give you a figure based on the latest research. Also, why is Google moving away from its well-established search-engine algorithm in favour of AI-generated summaries; The importance of remembering that urban planning isn't just about buildings, it's about people and spaces; And how digital technology is opening up a new relationship between humans and animals. Guests  Megan Morrone – Tech editor, Axios  Dr Collin Jennings – academic and author  David George Holm – architect and author  Dr David Roberts - Associate Professor of Computer Science, North Carolina State University  Sari – the most adorable, black cat How many of the articles you see on the internet are actually written by AI, not by humans? We'll give you a figure based on the latest research. Also, why is Google moving away from its well-established search-engine algorithm in favour of AI-generated summaries; The importance of remembering that urban planning isn't just about buildings, it's about people and spaces; And how digital technology is opening up a new relationship between humans and animals. Guests Megan Morrone – Tech editor, Axios  Dr Collin Jennings – academic and author  David George Holm – architect and author  Dr David Roberts - Associate Professor of Computer Science, North Carolina State University  Sari – the most adorable, black cat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How many of the articles you see on the internet are actually written by AI, not by humans? We'll give you a figure based on the latest research. Also, why is Google moving away from its well-established search-engine algorithm in favour of AI-generated summaries; The importance of remembering that urban planning isn't just about buildings, it's about people and spaces; And how digital technology is opening up a new relationship between humans and animals.

Guests

Megan Morrone – Tech editor, Axios 

Dr Collin Jennings – academic and author 

David George Holm – architect and author 

Dr David Roberts - Associate Professor of Computer Science, North Carolina State University 

Sari – the most adorable, black cat

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 A tale of two futuristic cities https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-tale-of-two-futuristic-cities/105872152 Designing a futuristic city is a fraught task — a mixture of ambition, state of the art technology, inevitable budget blowouts and the need to not just inspire, but awe. We get an update on the progress of two mega metropolises — Xiongan in China and Neom in Saudi Arabia. Also, how a better understanding of the brain can help deter future conflicts. Guests Dr Andrew Stokols — Assistant Professor of Urban Studies, Singapore Management University Eliot Brown — London-based reporter, Wall Street Journal Dr Nicholas Wright — Neuroscientist, University College London and Georgetown University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Nov 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Designing a futuristic city is a fraught task — a mixture of ambition, state of the art technology, inevitable budget blowouts and the need to not just inspire, but awe. We get an update on the progress of two mega metropolises — Xiongan in China and Neom in Saudi Arabia. Also, how a better understanding of the brain can help deter future conflicts. Guests Dr Andrew Stokols — Assistant Professor of Urban Studies, Singapore Management University Eliot Brown — London-based reporter, Wall Street Journal Dr Nicholas Wright — Neuroscientist, University College London and Georgetown University Designing a futuristic city is a fraught task — a mixture of ambition, state of the art technology, inevitable budget blowouts and the need to not just inspire, but awe. We get an update on the progress of two mega metropolises — Xiongan in China and Neom in Saudi Arabia. Also, how a better understanding of the brain can help deter future conflicts. Guests Dr Andrew Stokols — Assistant Professor of Urban Studies, Singapore Management University Eliot Brown — London-based reporter, Wall Street Journal Dr Nicholas Wright — Neuroscientist, University College London and Georgetown University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Designing a futuristic city is a fraught task — a mixture of ambition, state of the art technology, inevitable budget blowouts and the need to not just inspire, but awe. We get an update on the progress of two mega metropolises — Xiongan in China and Neom in Saudi Arabia. Also, how a better understanding of the brain can help deter future conflicts.

Guests

Dr Andrew Stokols — Assistant Professor of Urban Studies, Singapore Management University

Eliot Brown — London-based reporter, Wall Street Journal

Dr Nicholas Wright — Neuroscientist, University College London and Georgetown University

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Ancient viruses, new threats https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/ancient-viruses-new-threats-/105872160 The global Covid 19 lockdown may seem like an eternity ago, but the threat of another full-scale pandemic has never resided.  Scientists warn that as the Arctic permafrost continues to melt ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, but researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics. Uppermost in many minds is the need to ensure future global cooperation in the event of another zoonotic outbreak.  Original broadcast on March 26, 2023. Guests Dr Christine Prat – Director of Operations, European Virus Archive  Dr Jean-Michel Claverie – Emeritus Professor of Medicine, Aix-Marseille University  Dr Aaron Bernstein – Director, The Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Nov 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The global Covid 19 lockdown may seem like an eternity ago, but the threat of another full-scale pandemic has never resided.  Scientists warn that as the Arctic permafrost continues to melt ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, but researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics. Uppermost in many minds is the need to ensure future global cooperation in the event of another zoonotic outbreak.  Original broadcast on March 26, 2023. Guests  Dr Christine Prat – Director of Operations, European Virus Archive  Dr Jean-Michel Claverie – Emeritus Professor of Medicine, Aix-Marseille University  Dr Aaron Bernstein – Director, The Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health  The global Covid 19 lockdown may seem like an eternity ago, but the threat of another full-scale pandemic has never resided.  Scientists warn that as the Arctic permafrost continues to melt ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, but researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics. Uppermost in many minds is the need to ensure future global cooperation in the event of another zoonotic outbreak.  Original broadcast on March 26, 2023. Guests Dr Christine Prat – Director of Operations, European Virus Archive  Dr Jean-Michel Claverie – Emeritus Professor of Medicine, Aix-Marseille University  Dr Aaron Bernstein – Director, The Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The global Covid 19 lockdown may seem like an eternity ago, but the threat of another full-scale pandemic has never resided.  Scientists warn that as the Arctic permafrost continues to melt ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, but researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics. Uppermost in many minds is the need to ensure future global cooperation in the event of another zoonotic outbreak. 

Original broadcast on March 26, 2023.

Guests

Dr Christine Prat – Director of Operations, European Virus Archive 

Dr Jean-Michel Claverie – Emeritus Professor of Medicine, Aix-Marseille University 

Dr Aaron Bernstein – Director, The Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health 

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]]> 1806 Microplastic removal and decarbonising cement https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/microplastic-removal-and-decarbonising-cement/105872070 Negotiations over a global treaty on microplastics have broken down. So, where to from here for one of the world's biggest environmental threats? We also get an update on new efforts to clean-up the cement production industry; and we look at AI chatbots and the increasing role they're playing as sources of advice and emotional support. Guests Dr Pratik Sachdeva — Senior Data Scientist, D-Lab, University of California, Berkeley Dr Shababa Selim — Senior Technology Analyst, IDTechEX Professor Paul Fennell — Professor of Clean Energy, Imperial College London Professor Jill Newby — Clinical psychologist, The Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Nov 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Negotiations over a global treaty on microplastics have broken down. So, where to from here for one of the world's biggest environmental threats? We also get an update on new efforts to clean-up the cement production industry; and we look at AI chatbots and the increasing role they're playing as sources of advice and emotional support. Guests Dr Pratik Sachdeva — Senior Data Scientist, D-Lab, University of California, Berkeley Dr Shababa Selim — Senior Technology Analyst, IDTechEX Professor Paul Fennell — Professor of Clean Energy, Imperial College London Professor Jill Newby — Clinical psychologist, The Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales Negotiations over a global treaty on microplastics have broken down. So, where to from here for one of the world's biggest environmental threats? We also get an update on new efforts to clean-up the cement production industry; and we look at AI chatbots and the increasing role they're playing as sources of advice and emotional support. Guests Dr Pratik Sachdeva — Senior Data Scientist, D-Lab, University of California, Berkeley Dr Shababa Selim — Senior Technology Analyst, IDTechEX Professor Paul Fennell — Professor of Clean Energy, Imperial College London Professor Jill Newby — Clinical psychologist, The Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Negotiations over a global treaty on microplastics have broken down. So, where to from here for one of the world's biggest environmental threats? We also get an update on new efforts to clean-up the cement production industry; and we look at AI chatbots and the increasing role they're playing as sources of advice and emotional support.

Guests

Dr Pratik Sachdeva — Senior Data Scientist, D-Lab, University of California, Berkeley

Dr Shababa Selim — Senior Technology Analyst, IDTechEX

Professor Paul Fennell — Professor of Clean Energy, Imperial College London

Professor Jill Newby — Clinical psychologist, The Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales

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]]> 1807 Learning how to learn in the age of generative AI https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/learning-how-to-learn-in-the-age-of-generative-ai/105872182 It's exactly three years since ChatGPT burst onto the scene. In that short period of time the process of academic assessment has been in upheaval. Across the world educators are trying to address how students should be assessed and whether AI can be used for more than just helping a student to cheat. But a growing number of education researchers say the real emphasis should be on promoting critical thinking and ensuring future students learn how to learn. Guests Professor Dragan Gasevic — Head of the Centre for Learning Analytics, Monash University Professor Neil Selwyn — School of Education, Culture and Society, Monash University Professor Rupert Wegerif — Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge Professor Phillip Dawson — Co-Director of the Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning, Deakin University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 06 Nov 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It's exactly three years since ChatGPT burst onto the scene. In that short period of time the process of academic assessment has been in upheaval. Across the world educators are trying to address how students should be assessed and whether AI can be used for more than just helping a student to cheat. But a growing number of education researchers say the real emphasis should be on promoting critical thinking and ensuring future students learn how to learn. Guests Professor Dragan Gasevic — Head of the Centre for Learning Analytics, Monash University Professor Neil Selwyn — School of Education, Culture and Society, Monash University Professor Rupert Wegerif — Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge Professor Phillip Dawson — Co-Director of the Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning, Deakin University It's exactly three years since ChatGPT burst onto the scene. In that short period of time the process of academic assessment has been in upheaval. Across the world educators are trying to address how students should be assessed and whether AI can be used for more than just helping a student to cheat. But a growing number of education researchers say the real emphasis should be on promoting critical thinking and ensuring future students learn how to learn. Guests Professor Dragan Gasevic — Head of the Centre for Learning Analytics, Monash University Professor Neil Selwyn — School of Education, Culture and Society, Monash University Professor Rupert Wegerif — Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge Professor Phillip Dawson — Co-Director of the Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning, Deakin University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's exactly three years since ChatGPT burst onto the scene. In that short period of time the process of academic assessment has been in upheaval. Across the world educators are trying to address how students should be assessed and whether AI can be used for more than just helping a student to cheat. But a growing number of education researchers say the real emphasis should be on promoting critical thinking and ensuring future students learn how to learn.

Guests

Professor Dragan Gasevic — Head of the Centre for Learning Analytics, Monash University

Professor Neil Selwyn — School of Education, Culture and Society, Monash University

Professor Rupert Wegerif — Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge

Professor Phillip Dawson — Co-Director of the Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning, Deakin University

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]]> 1807 Disinformation, digital tech and democracy https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/disinformation-digital-tech-and-democracy/105872100 In this programme we hear three thoughtful perspectives on the threat digital technologies pose for democracy. Henry Farrell from Johns Hopkins University argues disinformation must be tackled at a group level, not an individual one. Philosopher, John Tasioulas, says modern representative democracy is too easily corrupted by big tech. And AI specialist, Marcus Beard, introduces us to the phenomenon he calls "slopaganda". Guests Professor John Tasioulas — ethicist and immediate former Director of the Institute for Ethics and AI, University of Oxford Professor Henry Farrell — Political Scientist, Johns Hopkins University Marcus Beard — Digital, disinformation and AI specialist, Fenimore Harper Communications Further information Henry Farrell - We're getting the social media crisis wrong John Tasioulas - The classical key to the AI revolution Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 30 Oct 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia In this programme we hear three thoughtful perspectives on the threat digital technologies pose for democracy. Henry Farrell from Johns Hopkins University argues disinformation must be tackled at a group level, not an individual one. Philosopher, John Tasioulas, says modern representative democracy is too easily corrupted by big tech. And AI specialist, Marcus Beard, introduces us to the phenomenon he calls "slopaganda". Guests Professor John Tasioulas — ethicist and immediate former Director of the Institute for Ethics and AI, University of Oxford Professor Henry Farrell — Political Scientist, Johns Hopkins University Marcus Beard — Digital, disinformation and AI specialist, Fenimore Harper Communications Further information Henry Farrell - We're getting the social media crisis wrong John Tasioulas - The classical key to the AI revolution In this programme we hear three thoughtful perspectives on the threat digital technologies pose for democracy. Henry Farrell from Johns Hopkins University argues disinformation must be tackled at a group level, not an individual one. Philosopher, John Tasioulas, says modern representative democracy is too easily corrupted by big tech. And AI specialist, Marcus Beard, introduces us to the phenomenon he calls "slopaganda". Guests Professor John Tasioulas — ethicist and immediate former Director of the Institute for Ethics and AI, University of Oxford Professor Henry Farrell — Political Scientist, Johns Hopkins University Marcus Beard — Digital, disinformation and AI specialist, Fenimore Harper Communications Further information Henry Farrell - We're getting the social media crisis wrong John Tasioulas - The classical key to the AI revolution Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this programme we hear three thoughtful perspectives on the threat digital technologies pose for democracy. Henry Farrell from Johns Hopkins University argues disinformation must be tackled at a group level, not an individual one. Philosopher, John Tasioulas, says modern representative democracy is too easily corrupted by big tech. And AI specialist, Marcus Beard, introduces us to the phenomenon he calls "slopaganda".

Guests

Professor John Tasioulas — ethicist and immediate former Director of the Institute for Ethics and AI, University of Oxford

Professor Henry Farrell — Political Scientist, Johns Hopkins University

Marcus Beard — Digital, disinformation and AI specialist, Fenimore Harper Communications

Further information

Henry Farrell - We're getting the social media crisis wrong

John Tasioulas - The classical key to the AI revolution

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]]> 1806 Getting up to speed with autonomous vehicles https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/getting-up-to-speed-with-autonomous-vehicles/105872098 Long before AI dominated the media hype-cycle, self-driving cars surfed the hyperbolic wave. But fully automated vehicles have now been a long time in development, long enough that we've decided it's time for an update. So, how advanced is the technology and where is the demand? We also find out about consumer attitudes toward the "driver-assist" technologies that are now routinely fitted into modern cars. Surprise, surprise, it seems not everyone wants to be told how to drive. Guests Associate Professor Abdesalam Soudi — Sociolinguist, Department of Linguistics, University of Pittsburgh Professor Michael Milford — Director of the Centre for Robotics, Queensland University of Technology Associate Professor Milad Haghani — Principal Fellow in Urban Resilience & Mobility, University of Melbourne Sönke Iwersen — Co-author of "The Tesla Files". Journalist for German business newspaper Handelsblatt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 23 Oct 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Long before AI dominated the media hype-cycle, self-driving cars surfed the hyperbolic wave. But fully automated vehicles have now been a long time in development, long enough that we've decided it's time for an update. So, how advanced is the technology and where is the demand? We also find out about consumer attitudes toward the "driver-assist" technologies that are now routinely fitted into modern cars. Surprise, surprise, it seems not everyone wants to be told how to drive. Guests Associate Professor Abdesalam Soudi — Sociolinguist, Department of Linguistics, University of Pittsburgh Professor Michael Milford — Director of the Centre for Robotics, Queensland University of Technology Associate Professor Milad Haghani — Principal Fellow in Urban Resilience & Mobility, University of Melbourne Sönke Iwersen — Co-author of "The Tesla Files". Journalist for German business newspaper Handelsblatt Long before AI dominated the media hype-cycle, self-driving cars surfed the hyperbolic wave. But fully automated vehicles have now been a long time in development, long enough that we've decided it's time for an update. So, how advanced is the technology and where is the demand? We also find out about consumer attitudes toward the "driver-assist" technologies that are now routinely fitted into modern cars. Surprise, surprise, it seems not everyone wants to be told how to drive. Guests Associate Professor Abdesalam Soudi — Sociolinguist, Department of Linguistics, University of Pittsburgh Professor Michael Milford — Director of the Centre for Robotics, Queensland University of Technology Associate Professor Milad Haghani — Principal Fellow in Urban Resilience & Mobility, University of Melbourne Sönke Iwersen — Co-author of "The Tesla Files". Journalist for German business newspaper Handelsblatt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Long before AI dominated the media hype-cycle, self-driving cars surfed the hyperbolic wave. But fully automated vehicles have now been a long time in development, long enough that we've decided it's time for an update. So, how advanced is the technology and where is the demand? We also find out about consumer attitudes toward the "driver-assist" technologies that are now routinely fitted into modern cars. Surprise, surprise, it seems not everyone wants to be told how to drive.

Guests

Associate Professor Abdesalam Soudi — Sociolinguist, Department of Linguistics, University of Pittsburgh

Professor Michael Milford — Director of the Centre for Robotics, Queensland University of Technology

Associate Professor Milad Haghani — Principal Fellow in Urban Resilience & Mobility, University of Melbourne

Sönke Iwersen — Co-author of "The Tesla Files". Journalist for German business newspaper Handelsblatt

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]]> 1807 Technology and language — a dynamic relationship https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/technology-and-language-a-dynamic-relationship/105853220 While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak". And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language. Original broadcast on July 7, 2024 Guests Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK Further information Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 Oct 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak". And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language. Original broadcast on July 7, 2024 Guests Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK Further information Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language" While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak". And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language. Original broadcast on July 7, 2024 Guests Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK Further information Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak". And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language.

Original broadcast on July 7, 2024

Guests

Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York

Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto

Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK

Further information

Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language"

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]]> 1807 Are we turning the housing crisis into a living crisis? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/are-we-turning-the-housing-crisis-into-a-living-crisis-/105825416 We build more and more homes for growing urban populations. But doing so without providing much needed amenities doesn't serve our suburbs and the people who live in them. It risks confounding social isolation and urban sprawl. There's also climate change to consider. In a heating world, how do we plan our suburbs to deal with higher temperatures? Are the cities and suburbs of the future going to be livable for our children and our children's children? Rob Kelly investigates Guests Andrew Crowe — Demographer for Australian Bureau of Statistics Dr Annette Kroen — Senior Research Fellow at RMIT University Professor Sebastian Pfautsch — Professor of Urban Planning and Management at Western Sydney University and co-lead in People-centred Sustainable Precinct Design at the Urban Transformations Research Centre Dylan Reid — Urbanist, editor, writer and co-founder of Spacing Magazine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 Oct 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia We build more and more homes for growing urban populations. But doing so without providing much needed amenities doesn't serve our suburbs and the people who live in them. It risks confounding social isolation and urban sprawl. There's also climate change to consider. In a heating world, how do we plan our suburbs to deal with higher temperatures? Are the cities and suburbs of the future going to be livable for our children and our children's children? Rob Kelly investigates Guests Andrew Crowe — Demographer for Australian Bureau of Statistics Dr Annette Kroen — Senior Research Fellow at RMIT University Professor Sebastian Pfautsch — Professor of Urban Planning and Management at Western Sydney University and co-lead in People-centred Sustainable Precinct Design at the Urban Transformations Research Centre Dylan Reid — Urbanist, editor, writer and co-founder of Spacing Magazine We build more and more homes for growing urban populations. But doing so without providing much needed amenities doesn't serve our suburbs and the people who live in them. It risks confounding social isolation and urban sprawl. There's also climate change to consider. In a heating world, how do we plan our suburbs to deal with higher temperatures? Are the cities and suburbs of the future going to be livable for our children and our children's children? Rob Kelly investigates Guests Andrew Crowe — Demographer for Australian Bureau of Statistics Dr Annette Kroen — Senior Research Fellow at RMIT University Professor Sebastian Pfautsch — Professor of Urban Planning and Management at Western Sydney University and co-lead in People-centred Sustainable Precinct Design at the Urban Transformations Research Centre Dylan Reid — Urbanist, editor, writer and co-founder of Spacing Magazine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We build more and more homes for growing urban populations. But doing so without providing much needed amenities doesn't serve our suburbs and the people who live in them. It risks confounding social isolation and urban sprawl. There's also climate change to consider. In a heating world, how do we plan our suburbs to deal with higher temperatures? Are the cities and suburbs of the future going to be livable for our children and our children's children?

Rob Kelly investigates

Guests

Andrew Crowe — Demographer for Australian Bureau of Statistics

Dr Annette Kroen — Senior Research Fellow at RMIT University

Professor Sebastian Pfautsch — Professor of Urban Planning and Management at Western Sydney University and co-lead in People-centred Sustainable Precinct Design at the Urban Transformations Research Centre

Dylan Reid — Urbanist, editor, writer and co-founder of Spacing Magazine

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1757 Reviving the past and digital mapping for the future https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/reviving-the-past-and-digital-mapping-for-the-future/105798722 The remote Canadian island of Oikiqtaruk is disappearing fast, but its cultural and environmental heritage is being captured in digital form. We talk to those involved in the project about its ambition and their success to date. Also, recreating long lost cultural artefacts. For the Madrid-based organisation Factum Foundation it's a journey of reconnection — a way that future generations can celebrate and cherish the character of their past. Guests Richard Gordon — Senior Park Ranger, Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park, Canada Professor Peter Dawson — Dept. of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary Adam Lowe — Director of Factum Arte and founder of Factum Foundation for Digital Technology in Conservation Further information Factum Foundation Digitally Preserving Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 02 Oct 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The remote Canadian island of Oikiqtaruk is disappearing fast, but its cultural and environmental heritage is being captured in digital form. We talk to those involved in the project about its ambition and their success to date. Also, recreating long lost cultural artefacts. For the Madrid-based organisation Factum Foundation it's a journey of reconnection — a way that future generations can celebrate and cherish the character of their past. Guests Richard Gordon — Senior Park Ranger, Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park, Canada Professor Peter Dawson — Dept. of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary Adam Lowe — Director of Factum Arte and founder of Factum Foundation for Digital Technology in Conservation Further information Factum Foundation Digitally Preserving Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park The remote Canadian island of Oikiqtaruk is disappearing fast, but its cultural and environmental heritage is being captured in digital form. We talk to those involved in the project about its ambition and their success to date. Also, recreating long lost cultural artefacts. For the Madrid-based organisation Factum Foundation it's a journey of reconnection — a way that future generations can celebrate and cherish the character of their past. Guests Richard Gordon — Senior Park Ranger, Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park, Canada Professor Peter Dawson — Dept. of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary Adam Lowe — Director of Factum Arte and founder of Factum Foundation for Digital Technology in Conservation Further information Factum Foundation Digitally Preserving Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The remote Canadian island of Oikiqtaruk is disappearing fast, but its cultural and environmental heritage is being captured in digital form. We talk to those involved in the project about its ambition and their success to date. Also, recreating long lost cultural artefacts. For the Madrid-based organisation Factum Foundation it's a journey of reconnection — a way that future generations can celebrate and cherish the character of their past.

Guests

Richard Gordon — Senior Park Ranger, Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park, Canada

Professor Peter Dawson — Dept. of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Calgary

Adam Lowe — Director of Factum Arte and founder of Factum Foundation for Digital Technology in Conservation

Further information

Factum Foundation

Digitally Preserving Herschel Island-Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Are we kidding ourselves about decarbonisation? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/decarbonisation-fossil-fuels-green-hydrogen/105771154 Australian rooftops are resplendent with solar panels, but sustainability expert, Martin Brueckner, warns the popular notion that we're rapidly transitioning away from fossil fuels is deceptive. When you add Australia's fossil fuels exports to our domestic energy usage, he says, it's clear that "decarbonisation is yet to begin in earnest". Also, whatever happened to the dream that Australia could become a world leader in Green Hydrogen production? Guests Alison Reeve — Energy and Climate change Program Director, Grattan Institute Adjunct Associate Professor Madoc Sheehan — Researcher, James Cook University Professor Matthew Hill — Head of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University Professor Martin Brueckner — Pro Vice Chancellor Sustainability, Murdoch University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 Sep 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Australian rooftops are resplendent with solar panels, but sustainability expert, Martin Brueckner, warns the popular notion that we're rapidly transitioning away from fossil fuels is deceptive. When you add Australia's fossil fuels exports to our domestic energy usage, he says, it's clear that "decarbonisation is yet to begin in earnest". Also, whatever happened to the dream that Australia could become a world leader in Green Hydrogen production? Guests Alison Reeve — Energy and Climate change Program Director, Grattan Institute Adjunct Associate Professor Madoc Sheehan — Researcher, James Cook University Professor Matthew Hill — Head of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University Professor Martin Brueckner — Pro Vice Chancellor Sustainability, Murdoch University Australian rooftops are resplendent with solar panels, but sustainability expert, Martin Brueckner, warns the popular notion that we're rapidly transitioning away from fossil fuels is deceptive. When you add Australia's fossil fuels exports to our domestic energy usage, he says, it's clear that "decarbonisation is yet to begin in earnest". Also, whatever happened to the dream that Australia could become a world leader in Green Hydrogen production? Guests Alison Reeve — Energy and Climate change Program Director, Grattan Institute Adjunct Associate Professor Madoc Sheehan — Researcher, James Cook University Professor Matthew Hill — Head of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University Professor Martin Brueckner — Pro Vice Chancellor Sustainability, Murdoch University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Australian rooftops are resplendent with solar panels, but sustainability expert, Martin Brueckner, warns the popular notion that we're rapidly transitioning away from fossil fuels is deceptive. When you add Australia's fossil fuels exports to our domestic energy usage, he says, it's clear that "decarbonisation is yet to begin in earnest". Also, whatever happened to the dream that Australia could become a world leader in Green Hydrogen production?

Guests

Alison Reeve — Energy and Climate change Program Director, Grattan Institute

Adjunct Associate Professor Madoc Sheehan — Researcher, James Cook University

Professor Matthew Hill — Head of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University

Professor Martin Brueckner — Pro Vice Chancellor Sustainability, Murdoch University

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Is globalisation dying?  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/globalisation-trade-geopolitics/105744486 Globalisation isn’t what it used to be thanks to the legacy of the Covid-19 lockdown and, more recently, Donald Trump’s weaponisation of tariffs. But while it’s often given a bad rap, globalisation is about more than just trade, it’s also about the international exchange of ideas and talent. So, is it dying, withering or simply transforming?  Listen to Future Tense - How to start your own golden age Guests Professor Richard Baldwin – International Economics, IMD Business School, Switzerland  Professor Nick Bisley – International relations, La Trobe University  Guy Miller – Chief Market Strategist and Economist, Zurich Insurance Group  Ariel Kastner - Head of Geopolitical Agenda, World Economic Forum  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 19 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Globalisation isn’t what it used to be thanks to the legacy of the Covid-19 lockdown and, more recently, Donald Trump’s weaponisation of tariffs. But while it’s often given a bad rap, globalisation is about more than just trade, it’s also about the international exchange of ideas and talent. So, is it dying, withering or simply transforming?  Listen to Future Tense - How to start your own golden age Guests Professor Richard Baldwin – International Economics, IMD Business School, Switzerland  Professor Nick Bisley – International relations, La Trobe University  Guy Miller – Chief Market Strategist and Economist, Zurich Insurance Group  Ariel Kastner - Head of Geopolitical Agenda, World Economic Forum  Globalisation isn’t what it used to be thanks to the legacy of the Covid-19 lockdown and, more recently, Donald Trump’s weaponisation of tariffs. But while it’s often given a bad rap, globalisation is about more than just trade, it’s also about the international exchange of ideas and talent. So, is it dying, withering or simply transforming?  Listen to Future Tense - How to start your own golden age Guests Professor Richard Baldwin – International Economics, IMD Business School, Switzerland  Professor Nick Bisley – International relations, La Trobe University  Guy Miller – Chief Market Strategist and Economist, Zurich Insurance Group  Ariel Kastner - Head of Geopolitical Agenda, World Economic Forum  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Globalisation isn’t what it used to be thanks to the legacy of the Covid-19 lockdown and, more recently, Donald Trump’s weaponisation of tariffs. But while it’s often given a bad rap, globalisation is about more than just trade, it’s also about the international exchange of ideas and talent. So, is it dying, withering or simply transforming? 

Listen to Future Tense - How to start your own golden age

Guests

Professor Richard Baldwin – International Economics, IMD Business School, Switzerland 

Professor Nick Bisley – International relations, La Trobe University 

Guy Miller – Chief Market Strategist and Economist, Zurich Insurance Group 

Ariel Kastner - Head of Geopolitical Agenda, World Economic Forum 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Taxing carbon on the border and at sea https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/taxing-carbon-on-the-border-and-at-sea/105717126 The European Union is implementing a groundbreaking new tax: a carbon border tax. It's meant to prevent distortions between countries with differing emissions standards and so to reduce emissions. But will it work? The same can be asked about the International Maritime Organisation's proposed new carbon levy on shipping. Also on the show, an update on the Great Green Wall — China's mass-tree-planting project; and measuring stress in trees to improve resilience. Guests Associate Professor Anna Trugman — Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara Honorary Professor Peter Bridgewater — Centre for Heritage and Museum Studies, Australian National University Professor Michael Brear — Director, Melbourne Energy Institute, University of Melbourne Dr Sanjay Patnaik — Director, Center on Regulation and Markets, Brookings Institute Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Sep 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The European Union is implementing a groundbreaking new tax: a carbon border tax. It's meant to prevent distortions between countries with differing emissions standards and so to reduce emissions. But will it work? The same can be asked about the International Maritime Organisation's proposed new carbon levy on shipping. Also on the show, an update on the Great Green Wall — China's mass-tree-planting project; and measuring stress in trees to improve resilience. Guests Associate Professor Anna Trugman — Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara Honorary Professor Peter Bridgewater — Centre for Heritage and Museum Studies, Australian National University Professor Michael Brear — Director, Melbourne Energy Institute, University of Melbourne Dr Sanjay Patnaik — Director, Center on Regulation and Markets, Brookings Institute The European Union is implementing a groundbreaking new tax: a carbon border tax. It's meant to prevent distortions between countries with differing emissions standards and so to reduce emissions. But will it work? The same can be asked about the International Maritime Organisation's proposed new carbon levy on shipping. Also on the show, an update on the Great Green Wall — China's mass-tree-planting project; and measuring stress in trees to improve resilience. Guests Associate Professor Anna Trugman — Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara Honorary Professor Peter Bridgewater — Centre for Heritage and Museum Studies, Australian National University Professor Michael Brear — Director, Melbourne Energy Institute, University of Melbourne Dr Sanjay Patnaik — Director, Center on Regulation and Markets, Brookings Institute Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The European Union is implementing a groundbreaking new tax: a carbon border tax. It's meant to prevent distortions between countries with differing emissions standards and so to reduce emissions. But will it work? The same can be asked about the International Maritime Organisation's proposed new carbon levy on shipping. Also on the show, an update on the Great Green Wall — China's mass-tree-planting project; and measuring stress in trees to improve resilience.

Guests

Associate Professor Anna Trugman — Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara

Honorary Professor Peter Bridgewater — Centre for Heritage and Museum Studies, Australian National University

Professor Michael Brear — Director, Melbourne Energy Institute, University of Melbourne

Dr Sanjay Patnaik — Director, Center on Regulation and Markets, Brookings Institute

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1805 Existential hope vs Existential Fear https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/existential-hope-fear-s-j-beard-neil-selwyn-consumer-capitalism/105690310 Existential risks to human life abound, from the threat of nuclear Armageddon; to an uninhabitable planet; or an AI-induced apocalypse. Understanding such risks and how we can best respond to them is the preoccupation of S. J. Beard. But the Cambridge University researcher also speaks of "existential hope", a way of addressing our fears without the doom and despair. Also, Monash University's, Neil Selwyn, makes the call for what he terms "digital degrowth" — decoupling our online world from the shackles of consumer capitalism. Guests Dr S. J. Beard — Senior Research Associate, Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, Cambridge University Professor Neil Selwyn — Faculty of Education, Monash University Further information S.J. Beard - Existential Hope Neil Selwyn - Digital Degrowth: Radically Rethinking our Digital Futures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 Sep 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Existential risks to human life abound, from the threat of nuclear Armageddon; to an uninhabitable planet; or an AI-induced apocalypse. Understanding such risks and how we can best respond to them is the preoccupation of S. J. Beard. But the Cambridge University researcher also speaks of "existential hope", a way of addressing our fears without the doom and despair. Also, Monash University's, Neil Selwyn, makes the call for what he terms "digital degrowth" — decoupling our online world from the shackles of consumer capitalism. Guests Dr S. J. Beard — Senior Research Associate, Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, Cambridge University Professor Neil Selwyn — Faculty of Education, Monash University Further information S.J. Beard - Existential Hope Neil Selwyn - Digital Degrowth: Radically Rethinking our Digital Futures Existential risks to human life abound, from the threat of nuclear Armageddon; to an uninhabitable planet; or an AI-induced apocalypse. Understanding such risks and how we can best respond to them is the preoccupation of S. J. Beard. But the Cambridge University researcher also speaks of "existential hope", a way of addressing our fears without the doom and despair. Also, Monash University's, Neil Selwyn, makes the call for what he terms "digital degrowth" — decoupling our online world from the shackles of consumer capitalism. Guests Dr S. J. Beard — Senior Research Associate, Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, Cambridge University Professor Neil Selwyn — Faculty of Education, Monash University Further information S.J. Beard - Existential Hope Neil Selwyn - Digital Degrowth: Radically Rethinking our Digital Futures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Existential risks to human life abound, from the threat of nuclear Armageddon; to an uninhabitable planet; or an AI-induced apocalypse. Understanding such risks and how we can best respond to them is the preoccupation of S. J. Beard. But the Cambridge University researcher also speaks of "existential hope", a way of addressing our fears without the doom and despair. Also, Monash University's, Neil Selwyn, makes the call for what he terms "digital degrowth" — decoupling our online world from the shackles of consumer capitalism.

Guests

Dr S. J. Beard — Senior Research Associate, Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, Cambridge University

Professor Neil Selwyn — Faculty of Education, Monash University

Further information

S.J. Beard - Existential Hope

Neil Selwyn - Digital Degrowth: Radically Rethinking our Digital Futures

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]]> 1800 Cooperation, not conflict on the High Seas https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/cooperation-conflict-high-seas-law-ocean-decade-climate-data/105663512 We're now halfway through the UN-designated "Ocean Decade" — new research initiatives have been launched, and global cooperation has been strengthened as scientists work to learn more about our oceans and to harness their potential in the fight against adverse climate change. But there are still questions to be answered: How firm are the commitments made under the Ocean Decade arrangement? Why are many countries still lagging behind in ratifying the "High Seas" treaty? And what will a reduction in US funding mean for ongoing ocean research? Also, the ocean-going drones deployed to improve climate monitoring; and a new system for helping ships navigate more efficiently. Guests Julian Barbiere — Head of the Marine Policy and Regional Coordination Section, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, UNESCO; also Ocean Decade Coordinator Dr Meghan Cronin — Research Oceanographer, NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory; and co-chair of the Observing Air-Sea Interactions Strategy (OASIS), an endorsed programme of the UN Ocean Decade Dr Shane Keating — Associate professor, University of New South Wales; also founder of the company CounterCurrent Dr Sarah Lothian — Senior lecturer and Academic Barrister, Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong Further information UN Ocean Decade Sarah Lothian — Marine Conservation and International Law, Legal Instruments for Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 28 Aug 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia We're now halfway through the UN-designated "Ocean Decade" — new research initiatives have been launched, and global cooperation has been strengthened as scientists work to learn more about our oceans and to harness their potential in the fight against adverse climate change. But there are still questions to be answered: How firm are the commitments made under the Ocean Decade arrangement? Why are many countries still lagging behind in ratifying the "High Seas" treaty? And what will a reduction in US funding mean for ongoing ocean research? Also, the ocean-going drones deployed to improve climate monitoring; and a new system for helping ships navigate more efficiently. Guests Julian Barbiere — Head of the Marine Policy and Regional Coordination Section, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, UNESCO; also Ocean Decade Coordinator Dr Meghan Cronin — Research Oceanographer, NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory; and co-chair of the Observing Air-Sea Interactions Strategy (OASIS), an endorsed programme of the UN Ocean Decade Dr Shane Keating — Associate professor, University of New South Wales; also founder of the company CounterCurrent Dr Sarah Lothian — Senior lecturer and Academic Barrister, Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong Further information UN Ocean Decade Sarah Lothian — Marine Conservation and International Law, Legal Instruments for Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction We're now halfway through the UN-designated "Ocean Decade" — new research initiatives have been launched, and global cooperation has been strengthened as scientists work to learn more about our oceans and to harness their potential in the fight against adverse climate change. But there are still questions to be answered: How firm are the commitments made under the Ocean Decade arrangement? Why are many countries still lagging behind in ratifying the "High Seas" treaty? And what will a reduction in US funding mean for ongoing ocean research? Also, the ocean-going drones deployed to improve climate monitoring; and a new system for helping ships navigate more efficiently. Guests Julian Barbiere — Head of the Marine Policy and Regional Coordination Section, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, UNESCO; also Ocean Decade Coordinator Dr Meghan Cronin — Research Oceanographer, NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory; and co-chair of the Observing Air-Sea Interactions Strategy (OASIS), an endorsed programme of the UN Ocean Decade Dr Shane Keating — Associate professor, University of New South Wales; also founder of the company CounterCurrent Dr Sarah Lothian — Senior lecturer and Academic Barrister, Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong Further information UN Ocean Decade Sarah Lothian — Marine Conservation and International Law, Legal Instruments for Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We're now halfway through the UN-designated "Ocean Decade" — new research initiatives have been launched, and global cooperation has been strengthened as scientists work to learn more about our oceans and to harness their potential in the fight against adverse climate change. But there are still questions to be answered:

  • How firm are the commitments made under the Ocean Decade arrangement?
  • Why are many countries still lagging behind in ratifying the "High Seas" treaty?
  • And what will a reduction in US funding mean for ongoing ocean research?

Also, the ocean-going drones deployed to improve climate monitoring; and a new system for helping ships navigate more efficiently.

Guests

Julian Barbiere — Head of the Marine Policy and Regional Coordination Section, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, UNESCO; also Ocean Decade Coordinator

Dr Meghan Cronin — Research Oceanographer, NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory; and co-chair of the Observing Air-Sea Interactions Strategy (OASIS), an endorsed programme of the UN Ocean Decade

Dr Shane Keating — Associate professor, University of New South Wales; also founder of the company CounterCurrent

Dr Sarah Lothian — Senior lecturer and Academic Barrister, Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong

Further information

UN Ocean Decade

Sarah Lothian — Marine Conservation and International Law, Legal Instruments for Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction

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]]> 1806 Convenience culture's inconvenient truth https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/convenience-culture-s-inconvenient-truth/105633382 Humans have an evolutionary bias toward seeking convenience, experts say. But what happens when the desire for convenience becomes a dominant social and economic expectation? Future Tense explores the hidden costs of convenience for the environment and the economy. Making things too easy can in fact be bad for you. Guests Alison Angus — Head of Practice – Innovation Research, Euromonitor Dr Paul Harrison — Director of MBA Programme, Deakin University. Unit Chair of Consumer Behaviour, Department of Marketing, Deakin Business School Sloan Wilkins — Founder and Financial Coach, Everyday Money Live Dr Alex Curmi — Consultant psychiatrist Chris Williams — Founder and Chief Executive, ISB Global Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 21 Aug 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Humans have an evolutionary bias toward seeking convenience, experts say. But what happens when the desire for convenience becomes a dominant social and economic expectation? Future Tense explores the hidden costs of convenience for the environment and the economy. Making things too easy can in fact be bad for you. Guests Alison Angus — Head of Practice – Innovation Research, Euromonitor Dr Paul Harrison — Director of MBA Programme, Deakin University. Unit Chair of Consumer Behaviour, Department of Marketing, Deakin Business School Sloan Wilkins — Founder and Financial Coach, Everyday Money Live Dr Alex Curmi — Consultant psychiatrist Chris Williams — Founder and Chief Executive, ISB Global Humans have an evolutionary bias toward seeking convenience, experts say. But what happens when the desire for convenience becomes a dominant social and economic expectation? Future Tense explores the hidden costs of convenience for the environment and the economy. Making things too easy can in fact be bad for you. Guests Alison Angus — Head of Practice – Innovation Research, Euromonitor Dr Paul Harrison — Director of MBA Programme, Deakin University. Unit Chair of Consumer Behaviour, Department of Marketing, Deakin Business School Sloan Wilkins — Founder and Financial Coach, Everyday Money Live Dr Alex Curmi — Consultant psychiatrist Chris Williams — Founder and Chief Executive, ISB Global Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Humans have an evolutionary bias toward seeking convenience, experts say. But what happens when the desire for convenience becomes a dominant social and economic expectation? Future Tense explores the hidden costs of convenience for the environment and the economy. Making things too easy can in fact be bad for you.

Guests

Alison Angus — Head of Practice – Innovation Research, Euromonitor

Dr Paul Harrison — Director of MBA Programme, Deakin University. Unit Chair of Consumer Behaviour, Department of Marketing, Deakin Business School

Sloan Wilkins — Founder and Financial Coach, Everyday Money Live

Dr Alex Curmi — Consultant psychiatrist

Chris Williams — Founder and Chief Executive, ISB Global

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]]> 1806 Perspectives on the potential of AI-powered policing  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/perspectives-on-the-potential-of-ai-powered-policing-/105606266 Policing has always embraced new technologies and Artificial Intelligence is, of course, the flavour of the month. Working out when and why it should be used is crucial, according to law enforcement specialists. What’s also important is ensuring appropriate human oversight.  Future Tense - The creeping militarisation of our police Guests Dr Marion Oswald – Professor of Law, Northumbria University  Philip Lukens – Former Police Chief, Alliance, Nebraska. Data-driven policing analyst  Dr Nick Evans – Lecturer and researcher, Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement Studies, University of Tasmania  Dr Terry Goldsworthy – Associate Professor in Criminology, Bond University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 14 Aug 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Policing has always embraced new technologies and Artificial Intelligence is, of course, the flavour of the month. Working out when and why it should be used is crucial, according to law enforcement specialists. What’s also important is ensuring appropriate human oversight.  Future Tense - The creeping militarisation of our police Guests Dr Marion Oswald – Professor of Law, Northumbria University  Philip Lukens – Former Police Chief, Alliance, Nebraska. Data-driven policing analyst  Dr Nick Evans – Lecturer and researcher, Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement Studies, University of Tasmania  Dr Terry Goldsworthy – Associate Professor in Criminology, Bond University Policing has always embraced new technologies and Artificial Intelligence is, of course, the flavour of the month. Working out when and why it should be used is crucial, according to law enforcement specialists. What’s also important is ensuring appropriate human oversight.  Future Tense - The creeping militarisation of our police Guests Dr Marion Oswald – Professor of Law, Northumbria University  Philip Lukens – Former Police Chief, Alliance, Nebraska. Data-driven policing analyst  Dr Nick Evans – Lecturer and researcher, Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement Studies, University of Tasmania  Dr Terry Goldsworthy – Associate Professor in Criminology, Bond University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Policing has always embraced new technologies and Artificial Intelligence is, of course, the flavour of the month. Working out when and why it should be used is crucial, according to law enforcement specialists. What’s also important is ensuring appropriate human oversight. 

Future Tense - The creeping militarisation of our police

Guests

Dr Marion Oswald – Professor of Law, Northumbria University 

Philip Lukens – Former Police Chief, Alliance, Nebraska. Data-driven policing analyst 

Dr Nick Evans – Lecturer and researcher, Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement Studies, University of Tasmania 

Dr Terry Goldsworthy – Associate Professor in Criminology, Bond University

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]]> 1796 The truth about AI and productivity https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-truth-about-ai-and-productivity/105578096 How real is the link between Artificial Intelligence and increased productivity? Jon Whittle from the CSIRO, one of Australia's leading science agencies, has been examining the latest research. He helps us sort facts from fiction. Also, literacy and problem-solving skills have taken a dive in many developed countries — could an over-reliance on technology be part of the problem? And why understanding the literary style "Magic Realism" could help in developing better regulation for AI. Guests Jovan Kurbalija — Executive Director, Diplo Foundation Professor Jon Whittle — Data61 Director, CSIRO Andreas Schleicher — Director for Education and Skills, OECD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 07 Aug 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia How real is the link between Artificial Intelligence and increased productivity? Jon Whittle from the CSIRO, one of Australia's leading science agencies, has been examining the latest research. He helps us sort facts from fiction. Also, literacy and problem-solving skills have taken a dive in many developed countries — could an over-reliance on technology be part of the problem? And why understanding the literary style "Magic Realism" could help in developing better regulation for AI. Guests Jovan Kurbalija — Executive Director, Diplo Foundation Professor Jon Whittle — Data61 Director, CSIRO Andreas Schleicher — Director for Education and Skills, OECD How real is the link between Artificial Intelligence and increased productivity? Jon Whittle from the CSIRO, one of Australia's leading science agencies, has been examining the latest research. He helps us sort facts from fiction. Also, literacy and problem-solving skills have taken a dive in many developed countries — could an over-reliance on technology be part of the problem? And why understanding the literary style "Magic Realism" could help in developing better regulation for AI. Guests Jovan Kurbalija — Executive Director, Diplo Foundation Professor Jon Whittle — Data61 Director, CSIRO Andreas Schleicher — Director for Education and Skills, OECD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How real is the link between Artificial Intelligence and increased productivity? Jon Whittle from the CSIRO, one of Australia's leading science agencies, has been examining the latest research. He helps us sort facts from fiction. Also, literacy and problem-solving skills have taken a dive in many developed countries — could an over-reliance on technology be part of the problem? And why understanding the literary style "Magic Realism" could help in developing better regulation for AI.

Guests

Jovan Kurbalija — Executive Director, Diplo Foundation

Professor Jon Whittle — Data61 Director, CSIRO

Andreas Schleicher — Director for Education and Skills, OECD

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]]> 1808 Sinking Cities https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/sinking-cities/105551674 Cities across the world are beginning to sink — some by as much as 10 centimetres a year. A recent study suggests that more than a third of urban Chinese resident now live in a sinking city. The cause is often ascribed to climate change, but is there something else at play? Could our thirst for water actually be the culprit? Also, how much do our urban environments contribute to the heating of the planet? A call to finally get serious about the climate impacts of city design. Guests Jeff Goodell — Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council. New York Times Best Selling author of "The Water Will Come" Dr Philip Minderhoud — Assistant Professor and Veni laureate at the University of Wageningen Associate Professor Anna Hullimann — Melbourne School of Design, University of Melbourne Further information Jeff Goodell — The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities and the Remaking of the Civilized World Anna Hurlimann — Integrating Climate Change Action Across the Built Environment: A Guide for Transformative Action  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 31 Jul 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Cities across the world are beginning to sink — some by as much as 10 centimetres a year. A recent study suggests that more than a third of urban Chinese resident now live in a sinking city. The cause is often ascribed to climate change, but is there something else at play? Could our thirst for water actually be the culprit? Also, how much do our urban environments contribute to the heating of the planet? A call to finally get serious about the climate impacts of city design. Guests Jeff Goodell — Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council. New York Times Best Selling author of "The Water Will Come" Dr Philip Minderhoud — Assistant Professor and Veni laureate at the University of Wageningen Associate Professor Anna Hullimann — Melbourne School of Design, University of Melbourne Further information Jeff Goodell — The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities and the Remaking of the Civilized World  Anna Hurlimann — Integrating Climate Change Action Across the Built Environment: A Guide for Transformative Action  Cities across the world are beginning to sink — some by as much as 10 centimetres a year. A recent study suggests that more than a third of urban Chinese resident now live in a sinking city. The cause is often ascribed to climate change, but is there something else at play? Could our thirst for water actually be the culprit? Also, how much do our urban environments contribute to the heating of the planet? A call to finally get serious about the climate impacts of city design. Guests Jeff Goodell — Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council. New York Times Best Selling author of "The Water Will Come" Dr Philip Minderhoud — Assistant Professor and Veni laureate at the University of Wageningen Associate Professor Anna Hullimann — Melbourne School of Design, University of Melbourne Further information Jeff Goodell — The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities and the Remaking of the Civilized World Anna Hurlimann — Integrating Climate Change Action Across the Built Environment: A Guide for Transformative Action  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Cities across the world are beginning to sink — some by as much as 10 centimetres a year. A recent study suggests that more than a third of urban Chinese resident now live in a sinking city. The cause is often ascribed to climate change, but is there something else at play? Could our thirst for water actually be the culprit? Also, how much do our urban environments contribute to the heating of the planet? A call to finally get serious about the climate impacts of city design.

Guests

Jeff Goodell — Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council. New York Times Best Selling author of "The Water Will Come"

Dr Philip Minderhoud — Assistant Professor and Veni laureate at the University of Wageningen

Associate Professor Anna Hullimann — Melbourne School of Design, University of Melbourne

Further information

Jeff Goodell — The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities and the Remaking of the Civilized World

Anna Hurlimann — Integrating Climate Change Action Across the Built Environment: A Guide for Transformative Action 

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]]> 1809 How to balance the population needs on our planet https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/how-to-balance-the-population-needs-on-our-planet/105525802 We face multiple looming demographic crises — and our responses seemingly contradict each other.  A rapidly aging population means that we need more children to be born. But it's foreseeable that resources on Earth simply can't sustain many more people. How can we solve this conundrum? Original broadcast on May 22, 2022 Guests Dr Stuart Gietel Basten — Professor of Social Science and Policy, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Dr Marco Amati — Associate professor of International Planning, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University Deborah Devis — Science Communicator Dr Anumitra Mirti — Senior Associate — Sustainability, Beca Professor Nick Parr — Demographer, Macquarie University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 24 Jul 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia We face multiple looming demographic crises — and our responses seemingly contradict each other.  A rapidly aging population means that we need more children to be born. But it's foreseeable that resources on Earth simply can't sustain many more people. How can we solve this conundrum? Original broadcast on May 22, 2022 Guests Dr Stuart Gietel Basten — Professor of Social Science and Policy, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Dr Marco Amati — Associate professor of International Planning, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University Deborah Devis — Science Communicator Dr Anumitra Mirti — Senior Associate — Sustainability, Beca Professor Nick Parr — Demographer, Macquarie University We face multiple looming demographic crises — and our responses seemingly contradict each other.  A rapidly aging population means that we need more children to be born. But it's foreseeable that resources on Earth simply can't sustain many more people. How can we solve this conundrum? Original broadcast on May 22, 2022 Guests Dr Stuart Gietel Basten — Professor of Social Science and Policy, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Dr Marco Amati — Associate professor of International Planning, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University Deborah Devis — Science Communicator Dr Anumitra Mirti — Senior Associate — Sustainability, Beca Professor Nick Parr — Demographer, Macquarie University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We face multiple looming demographic crises — and our responses seemingly contradict each other. 

A rapidly aging population means that we need more children to be born. But it's foreseeable that resources on Earth simply can't sustain many more people.

How can we solve this conundrum?

Original broadcast on May 22, 2022

Guests

Dr Stuart Gietel Basten — Professor of Social Science and Policy, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Dr Marco Amati — Associate professor of International Planning, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University

Deborah Devis — Science Communicator

Dr Anumitra Mirti — Senior Associate — Sustainability, Beca

Professor Nick Parr — Demographer, Macquarie University

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]]> 1808 Lessons from South Korea's security dilemma https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/lessons-from-south-korea-security-dilemma/105499202 South Korea is a test case in how to maintain democracy against sustained pressure from dictatorship. The innovative and entrepreneurial country lives in the shadow of China and Russia, and its capital Seoul lies only 50km from the North Korean border. It hasn't been easy, but the difficulties South Korea faces and the way it deals with them could prove invaluable for other regional neighbours in responding to future economic and military aggression. Journalist Matt Smith has this special report… Guests Dr Troy Lee Brown — Research Fellow, Defense and Security Institute, University of Western Australia Professor Bec Strating — Director, La Trobe Asia and Professor of International Relations at La Trobe University Dr Mike Bosack — Special Advisor for Government Relations, Yokosuka Council for Asia-Pacific Studies Dongkeun Lee — Policy Fellow, Asia-Pacific Leadership Network Dr Duyeon Kim — Adjunct Senior Fellow, Indo-Pacific Security Program, Centre for New American Security Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 17 Jul 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia South Korea is a test case in how to maintain democracy against sustained pressure from dictatorship. The innovative and entrepreneurial country lives in the shadow of China and Russia, and its capital Seoul lies only 50km from the North Korean border. It hasn't been easy, but the difficulties South Korea faces and the way it deals with them could prove invaluable for other regional neighbours in responding to future economic and military aggression. Journalist Matt Smith has this special report… Guests Dr Troy Lee Brown — Research Fellow, Defense and Security Institute, University of Western Australia Professor Bec Strating — Director, La Trobe Asia and Professor of International Relations at La Trobe University Dr Mike Bosack — Special Advisor for Government Relations, Yokosuka Council for Asia-Pacific Studies Dongkeun Lee — Policy Fellow, Asia-Pacific Leadership Network Dr Duyeon Kim — Adjunct Senior Fellow, Indo-Pacific Security Program, Centre for New American Security South Korea is a test case in how to maintain democracy against sustained pressure from dictatorship. The innovative and entrepreneurial country lives in the shadow of China and Russia, and its capital Seoul lies only 50km from the North Korean border. It hasn't been easy, but the difficulties South Korea faces and the way it deals with them could prove invaluable for other regional neighbours in responding to future economic and military aggression. Journalist Matt Smith has this special report… Guests Dr Troy Lee Brown — Research Fellow, Defense and Security Institute, University of Western Australia Professor Bec Strating — Director, La Trobe Asia and Professor of International Relations at La Trobe University Dr Mike Bosack — Special Advisor for Government Relations, Yokosuka Council for Asia-Pacific Studies Dongkeun Lee — Policy Fellow, Asia-Pacific Leadership Network Dr Duyeon Kim — Adjunct Senior Fellow, Indo-Pacific Security Program, Centre for New American Security Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices South Korea is a test case in how to maintain democracy against sustained pressure from dictatorship. The innovative and entrepreneurial country lives in the shadow of China and Russia, and its capital Seoul lies only 50km from the North Korean border. It hasn't been easy, but the difficulties South Korea faces and the way it deals with them could prove invaluable for other regional neighbours in responding to future economic and military aggression.

Journalist Matt Smith has this special report…

Guests

Dr Troy Lee Brown — Research Fellow, Defense and Security Institute, University of Western Australia

Professor Bec Strating — Director, La Trobe Asia and Professor of International Relations at La Trobe University

Dr Mike Bosack — Special Advisor for Government Relations, Yokosuka Council for Asia-Pacific Studies

Dongkeun Lee — Policy Fellow, Asia-Pacific Leadership Network

Dr Duyeon Kim — Adjunct Senior Fellow, Indo-Pacific Security Program, Centre for New American Security

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]]> 1778 A turning point for the United Nations https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-turning-point-for-the-united-nations/105473522 Suffering internal division and stymied by geopolitical bullying, the United Nations is facing a future of diminishing influence. As the organisation marks its 80th birthday, it's also dealing with a serious financial shortfall brought on by both China and the United States, its two biggest donors. Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, has launched a major internal reform programme, but there are questions about whether his approach will rescue the global body or just cause further damage. Guests Associate Professor Chris Ogden — Director of Global Studies, University of Auckland Eugene Chen — Senior Fellow, Center on International Cooperation, New York University Richard Gowan — Director of UN Affairs, International Crisis Group Roland Rich — former Australian ambassador. Director of the United Nations and Global Policy Master of Arts program, Rutgers University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 10 Jul 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Suffering internal division and stymied by geopolitical bullying, the United Nations is facing a future of diminishing influence. As the organisation marks its 80th birthday, it's also dealing with a serious financial shortfall brought on by both China and the United States, its two biggest donors. Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, has launched a major internal reform programme, but there are questions about whether his approach will rescue the global body or just cause further damage. Guests Associate Professor Chris Ogden — Director of Global Studies, University of Auckland Eugene Chen — Senior Fellow, Center on International Cooperation, New York University Richard Gowan — Director of UN Affairs, International Crisis Group Roland Rich — former Australian ambassador. Director of the United Nations and Global Policy Master of Arts program, Rutgers University Suffering internal division and stymied by geopolitical bullying, the United Nations is facing a future of diminishing influence. As the organisation marks its 80th birthday, it's also dealing with a serious financial shortfall brought on by both China and the United States, its two biggest donors. Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, has launched a major internal reform programme, but there are questions about whether his approach will rescue the global body or just cause further damage. Guests Associate Professor Chris Ogden — Director of Global Studies, University of Auckland Eugene Chen — Senior Fellow, Center on International Cooperation, New York University Richard Gowan — Director of UN Affairs, International Crisis Group Roland Rich — former Australian ambassador. Director of the United Nations and Global Policy Master of Arts program, Rutgers University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Suffering internal division and stymied by geopolitical bullying, the United Nations is facing a future of diminishing influence. As the organisation marks its 80th birthday, it's also dealing with a serious financial shortfall brought on by both China and the United States, its two biggest donors. Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, has launched a major internal reform programme, but there are questions about whether his approach will rescue the global body or just cause further damage.

Guests

Associate Professor Chris Ogden — Director of Global Studies, University of Auckland

Eugene Chen — Senior Fellow, Center on International Cooperation, New York University

Richard Gowan — Director of UN Affairs, International Crisis Group

Roland Rich — former Australian ambassador. Director of the United Nations and Global Policy Master of Arts program, Rutgers University

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]]> 1778 The potential benefits and risks of developing "mirror life" https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-potential-benefits-and-risks-of-developing-mirror-life/105446114 Synthetic biologists are hard at work developing artificial biological molecules as the first step toward developing a mirror cell that would be immune from infection. If they're successful, it could transform the world of medicine. But while the potential of mirror life is great, so too are the risks. There are warnings of a catastrophic impact if the cells can't be controlled. And that's prompted calls for a moratorium on the research. Guests Associate Professor Kate Adamala — Synthetic biologist and professor of genetics, University of Minnesota Professor Andrew Ellington — Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology, University of Texas at Austin Professor Heather Douglas — Department of Philosophy, Michigan State University Ajay Kshatriya — CEO Aizen Therapeutics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 03 Jul 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Synthetic biologists are hard at work developing artificial biological molecules as the first step toward developing a mirror cell that would be immune from infection. If they're successful, it could transform the world of medicine. But while the potential of mirror life is great, so too are the risks. There are warnings of a catastrophic impact if the cells can't be controlled. And that's prompted calls for a moratorium on the research. Guests Associate Professor Kate Adamala — Synthetic biologist and professor of genetics, University of Minnesota Professor Andrew Ellington — Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology, University of Texas at Austin Professor Heather Douglas — Department of Philosophy, Michigan State University Ajay Kshatriya — CEO Aizen Therapeutics   Synthetic biologists are hard at work developing artificial biological molecules as the first step toward developing a mirror cell that would be immune from infection. If they're successful, it could transform the world of medicine. But while the potential of mirror life is great, so too are the risks. There are warnings of a catastrophic impact if the cells can't be controlled. And that's prompted calls for a moratorium on the research. Guests Associate Professor Kate Adamala — Synthetic biologist and professor of genetics, University of Minnesota Professor Andrew Ellington — Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology, University of Texas at Austin Professor Heather Douglas — Department of Philosophy, Michigan State University Ajay Kshatriya — CEO Aizen Therapeutics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Synthetic biologists are hard at work developing artificial biological molecules as the first step toward developing a mirror cell that would be immune from infection. If they're successful, it could transform the world of medicine. But while the potential of mirror life is great, so too are the risks. There are warnings of a catastrophic impact if the cells can't be controlled. And that's prompted calls for a moratorium on the research.

Guests

Associate Professor Kate Adamala — Synthetic biologist and professor of genetics, University of Minnesota

Professor Andrew Ellington — Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology, University of Texas at Austin

Professor Heather Douglas — Department of Philosophy, Michigan State University

Ajay Kshatriya — CEO Aizen Therapeutics

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]]> 1778 The world after us! https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/future-technology-fossils-animals-live-music/105376814 What will Earth look like when humans become extinct? What "technofossils" will paleontologists of the future unearth and no doubt ponder over? Will we be remembered for our achievements or merely our rubbish? Also, which animals might rise to fill our role at the top of the pecking order? And is the future of live music really as dire as many predict? Guests Professor Sarah Gabbott — Paleobiologist, University of Leicester Joanna Thompson — Freelance science journalist based in New York Dr Christen Cornell — Research Fellow and Manager of Research Partnerships, Creative Australia Musical artists heard in this episode - Jim Beavis, The RandomiZZZed Experience Further information Listening In Research series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 26 Jun 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia What will Earth look like when humans become extinct? What "technofossils" will paleontologists of the future unearth and no doubt ponder over? Will we be remembered for our achievements or merely our rubbish? Also, which animals might rise to fill our role at the top of the pecking order? And is the future of live music really as dire as many predict? Guests Professor Sarah Gabbott — Paleobiologist, University of Leicester Joanna Thompson — Freelance science journalist based in New York Dr Christen Cornell — Research Fellow and Manager of Research Partnerships, Creative Australia Musical artists heard in this episode - Jim Beavis, The RandomiZZZed Experience Further information Listening In Research series What will Earth look like when humans become extinct? What "technofossils" will paleontologists of the future unearth and no doubt ponder over? Will we be remembered for our achievements or merely our rubbish? Also, which animals might rise to fill our role at the top of the pecking order? And is the future of live music really as dire as many predict? Guests Professor Sarah Gabbott — Paleobiologist, University of Leicester Joanna Thompson — Freelance science journalist based in New York Dr Christen Cornell — Research Fellow and Manager of Research Partnerships, Creative Australia Musical artists heard in this episode - Jim Beavis, The RandomiZZZed Experience Further information Listening In Research series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What will Earth look like when humans become extinct? What "technofossils" will paleontologists of the future unearth and no doubt ponder over? Will we be remembered for our achievements or merely our rubbish? Also, which animals might rise to fill our role at the top of the pecking order? And is the future of live music really as dire as many predict?

Guests

Professor Sarah Gabbott — Paleobiologist, University of Leicester

Joanna Thompson — Freelance science journalist based in New York

Dr Christen Cornell — Research Fellow and Manager of Research Partnerships, Creative Australia

Musical artists heard in this episode - Jim Beavis, The RandomiZZZed Experience

Further information

Listening In Research series

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]]> 1778 How to start your own golden age https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/society-golden-age-successful-civilisation-history-past/105376744 History has many lessons for how to develop a successful civilisation. The trick is to understand the patterns that lead to optimism and innovation. So, where do we rate in the 21st century? Also, why all history is revisionist and why a healthy sense of revisionism drives a deeper understanding of the past, present and future. Guests Johan Norberg — author and historian. Senior Fellow, Cato institute in Washington DC Associate Professor Sarah Percy — Political Science and International Studies, University of Queensland Dr James Banner — Historian and co-founder of the National Humanities Alliance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 Jun 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia History has many lessons for how to develop a successful civilisation. The trick is to understand the patterns that lead to optimism and innovation. So, where do we rate in the 21st century? Also, why all history is revisionist and why a healthy sense of revisionism drives a deeper understanding of the past, present and future. Guests Johan Norberg — author and historian. Senior Fellow, Cato institute in Washington DC Associate Professor Sarah Percy — Political Science and International Studies, University of Queensland Dr James Banner — Historian and co-founder of the National Humanities Alliance History has many lessons for how to develop a successful civilisation. The trick is to understand the patterns that lead to optimism and innovation. So, where do we rate in the 21st century? Also, why all history is revisionist and why a healthy sense of revisionism drives a deeper understanding of the past, present and future. Guests Johan Norberg — author and historian. Senior Fellow, Cato institute in Washington DC Associate Professor Sarah Percy — Political Science and International Studies, University of Queensland Dr James Banner — Historian and co-founder of the National Humanities Alliance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices History has many lessons for how to develop a successful civilisation. The trick is to understand the patterns that lead to optimism and innovation. So, where do we rate in the 21st century? Also, why all history is revisionist and why a healthy sense of revisionism drives a deeper understanding of the past, present and future.

Guests

Johan Norberg — author and historian. Senior Fellow, Cato institute in Washington DC

Associate Professor Sarah Percy — Political Science and International Studies, University of Queensland

Dr James Banner — Historian and co-founder of the National Humanities Alliance

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]]> 1778 Australia and Canada — Strategic partners, but near total strangers? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/australia-canada-strategic-partners-strangers/105368902 Australia and Canada share much in common, politically, historically and socially. Why then do we know so little about each other? In a time of global uncertainty does it make sense for Canada and Australia to build a closer bond? If the two prosperous liberal middle powers worked together more closely, could they be a greater force for positive change in the world? Guests Dr Andrew Lilco — Economist and Executive Director and Principal, Europe Economics N. Leo Crabe — lecturer and independent researcher. Formerly with the Canadian High Commission in Canberra Wesley Nicol — The Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University (Canada) Emeritus Professor Roy Green — Special Innovation Advisor, University of Technology Sydney Norman Hermant — Social Affairs Correspondent, Australian Broadcasting Corporation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Jun 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Australia and Canada share much in common, politically, historically and socially. Why then do we know so little about each other? In a time of global uncertainty does it make sense for Canada and Australia to build a closer bond? If the two prosperous liberal middle powers worked together more closely, could they be a greater force for positive change in the world? Guests Dr Andrew Lilco — Economist and Executive Director and Principal, Europe Economics N. Leo Crabe — lecturer and independent researcher. Formerly with the Canadian High Commission in Canberra Wesley Nicol — The Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University (Canada) Emeritus Professor Roy Green — Special Innovation Advisor, University of Technology Sydney Norman Hermant — Social Affairs Correspondent, Australian Broadcasting Corporation Australia and Canada share much in common, politically, historically and socially. Why then do we know so little about each other? In a time of global uncertainty does it make sense for Canada and Australia to build a closer bond? If the two prosperous liberal middle powers worked together more closely, could they be a greater force for positive change in the world? Guests Dr Andrew Lilco — Economist and Executive Director and Principal, Europe Economics N. Leo Crabe — lecturer and independent researcher. Formerly with the Canadian High Commission in Canberra Wesley Nicol — The Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University (Canada) Emeritus Professor Roy Green — Special Innovation Advisor, University of Technology Sydney Norman Hermant — Social Affairs Correspondent, Australian Broadcasting Corporation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Australia and Canada share much in common, politically, historically and socially. Why then do we know so little about each other? In a time of global uncertainty does it make sense for Canada and Australia to build a closer bond? If the two prosperous liberal middle powers worked together more closely, could they be a greater force for positive change in the world?

Guests

Dr Andrew Lilco — Economist and Executive Director and Principal, Europe Economics

N. Leo Crabe — lecturer and independent researcher. Formerly with the Canadian High Commission in Canberra

Wesley Nicol — The Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University (Canada)

Emeritus Professor Roy Green — Special Innovation Advisor, University of Technology Sydney

Norman Hermant — Social Affairs Correspondent, Australian Broadcasting Corporation

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]]> 1778 Reassessing the laws of war; and why progress isn't always a straight line https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/laws-of-war-landmines-progress-/105340248 The International commitment to ban landmines is wavering. Several European countries are reversing their opposition to using them. The shift comes as disarmament negotiators struggle to regulate the spread of "killer robots" — AI-controlled autonomous weapons. So, is the future of weapons containment and control under threat? And are treaties signed in peace always likely to be vulnerable during times of war? Guests Professor Sean Watts — Co-director of the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare, West Point Dr Barry de Vries — Research fellow, Public International Law, Justus Liebig University Giessen (Germany) Professor Lee Funnell — University of Chicago Law School Professor Lee Fennell — University of Chicago Law School Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 05 Jun 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The International commitment to ban landmines is wavering. Several European countries are reversing their opposition to using them. The shift comes as disarmament negotiators struggle to regulate the spread of "killer robots" — AI-controlled autonomous weapons. So, is the future of weapons containment and control under threat? And are treaties signed in peace always likely to be vulnerable during times of war? Guests Professor Sean Watts — Co-director of the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare, West Point Dr Barry de Vries — Research fellow, Public International Law, Justus Liebig University Giessen (Germany) Professor Lee Funnell — University of Chicago Law School Professor Lee Fennell — University of Chicago Law School The International commitment to ban landmines is wavering. Several European countries are reversing their opposition to using them. The shift comes as disarmament negotiators struggle to regulate the spread of "killer robots" — AI-controlled autonomous weapons. So, is the future of weapons containment and control under threat? And are treaties signed in peace always likely to be vulnerable during times of war? Guests Professor Sean Watts — Co-director of the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare, West Point Dr Barry de Vries — Research fellow, Public International Law, Justus Liebig University Giessen (Germany) Professor Lee Funnell — University of Chicago Law School Professor Lee Fennell — University of Chicago Law School Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The International commitment to ban landmines is wavering. Several European countries are reversing their opposition to using them. The shift comes as disarmament negotiators struggle to regulate the spread of "killer robots" — AI-controlled autonomous weapons. So, is the future of weapons containment and control under threat? And are treaties signed in peace always likely to be vulnerable during times of war?

Guests

Professor Sean Watts — Co-director of the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare, West Point

Dr Barry de Vries — Research fellow, Public International Law, Justus Liebig University Giessen (Germany) Professor Lee Funnell — University of Chicago Law School

Professor Lee Fennell — University of Chicago Law School

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]]> 1779 Beyond the cloud — storing data in space https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/data-centre-space-cloud-data-server/105309080 Researchers and corporations are already working to relocate data servers beyond the Earth's atmosphere — on satellites. Data servers are essential to the functioning of the modern world, but they're both power and water hungry. When they're built, they often meet with community concern and environmental protest. So, why not build data centres in space where solar energy is abundant? What could possibly go wrong? Finally, we discuss how artificial intelligence is changing the way we write by providing tools for editing, improving clarity, and suggesting new ideas. Guests Dr Domenico Vicinanza — Associate Professor of Intelligent Systems and Data Science, Anglia Ruskin University Damien Dumestier — Space system architect, Thales Alenia Space Dr Steven Freeland — Emeritus Professor, Western Sydney University and Professorial Fellow, Bond University Dr Daniel Murphy — Program Lead, Aerosol Properties and Processes, NOAA Chemical Sciences Laboratory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (US) Associate Professor Ritesh Chugh — Information and Communication Technologies, CQ University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 29 May 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Researchers and corporations are already working to relocate data servers beyond the Earth's atmosphere — on satellites. Data servers are essential to the functioning of the modern world, but they're both power and water hungry. When they're built, they often meet with community concern and environmental protest. So, why not build data centres in space where solar energy is abundant? What could possibly go wrong? Finally, we discuss how artificial intelligence is changing the way we write by providing tools for editing, improving clarity, and suggesting new ideas. Guests Dr Domenico Vicinanza — Associate Professor of Intelligent Systems and Data Science, Anglia Ruskin University Damien Dumestier — Space system architect, Thales Alenia Space Dr Steven Freeland — Emeritus Professor, Western Sydney University and Professorial Fellow, Bond University Dr Daniel Murphy — Program Lead, Aerosol Properties and Processes, NOAA Chemical Sciences Laboratory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (US) Associate Professor Ritesh Chugh — Information and Communication Technologies, CQ University Researchers and corporations are already working to relocate data servers beyond the Earth's atmosphere — on satellites. Data servers are essential to the functioning of the modern world, but they're both power and water hungry. When they're built, they often meet with community concern and environmental protest. So, why not build data centres in space where solar energy is abundant? What could possibly go wrong? Finally, we discuss how artificial intelligence is changing the way we write by providing tools for editing, improving clarity, and suggesting new ideas. Guests Dr Domenico Vicinanza — Associate Professor of Intelligent Systems and Data Science, Anglia Ruskin University Damien Dumestier — Space system architect, Thales Alenia Space Dr Steven Freeland — Emeritus Professor, Western Sydney University and Professorial Fellow, Bond University Dr Daniel Murphy — Program Lead, Aerosol Properties and Processes, NOAA Chemical Sciences Laboratory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (US) Associate Professor Ritesh Chugh — Information and Communication Technologies, CQ University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Researchers and corporations are already working to relocate data servers beyond the Earth's atmosphere — on satellites.

Data servers are essential to the functioning of the modern world, but they're both power and water hungry. When they're built, they often meet with community concern and environmental protest.

So, why not build data centres in space where solar energy is abundant? What could possibly go wrong?

Finally, we discuss how artificial intelligence is changing the way we write by providing tools for editing, improving clarity, and suggesting new ideas.

Guests

Dr Domenico Vicinanza — Associate Professor of Intelligent Systems and Data Science, Anglia Ruskin University

Damien Dumestier — Space system architect, Thales Alenia Space

Dr Steven Freeland — Emeritus Professor, Western Sydney University and Professorial Fellow, Bond University

Dr Daniel Murphy — Program Lead, Aerosol Properties and Processes, NOAA Chemical Sciences Laboratory, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (US)

Associate Professor Ritesh Chugh — Information and Communication Technologies, CQ University

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]]> 1810 Forgetting, not memory, moves us forward https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/forgetting-not-memory-moves-us-forward/105281044 Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function.  Original broadcast on March 27, 2022 Guests Dr Scott Small – Director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Columbia University Dr Oliver Hardt - Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, McGill University (Canada)  David Rieff – writer and journalist Further information Scott Small – Forgetting: The Benefits of Not Remembering David Rieff – In Praise of Forgetting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 22 May 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function.  Original broadcast on March 27, 2022 Guests Dr Scott Small – Director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Columbia University Dr Oliver Hardt - Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, McGill University (Canada)  David Rieff – writer and journalist   Further information Scott Small – Forgetting: The Benefits of Not Remembering David Rieff – In Praise of Forgetting Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function.  Original broadcast on March 27, 2022 Guests Dr Scott Small – Director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Columbia University Dr Oliver Hardt - Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, McGill University (Canada)  David Rieff – writer and journalist Further information Scott Small – Forgetting: The Benefits of Not Remembering David Rieff – In Praise of Forgetting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function. 

Original broadcast on March 27, 2022

Guests

Dr Scott Small – Director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Columbia University

Dr Oliver Hardt - Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, McGill University (Canada) 

David Rieff – writer and journalist

Further information

Scott Small – Forgetting: The Benefits of Not Remembering

David Rieff – In Praise of Forgetting

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]]> 1778 Bitcoin boom or digital deception? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/bitcoin-boom-or-digital-deception-/105223966 Donald Trump is establishing a US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. He wants it to rival the country's stockpile of gold. He boasts America will one day be the "Bitcoin superpower of the world", but what's his end game and what will it mean for future global finance? Questions are already being asked about why he's chosen to largely deregulate the cryptocurrency sector and whether his family's personal crypto interests are now driving US policy. Guests Associate Professor Larisa Yarovaya — Director of the Centre for Digital Finance, University of Southampton Professor Robert Elliott — Professor of Economics, University of Birmingham Dr John Hawkins — senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Maximilian Brichta — Communications, University of Southern California Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 15 May 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Donald Trump is establishing a US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. He wants it to rival the country's stockpile of gold. He boasts America will one day be the "Bitcoin superpower of the world", but what's his end game and what will it mean for future global finance? Questions are already being asked about why he's chosen to largely deregulate the cryptocurrency sector and whether his family's personal crypto interests are now driving US policy. Guests Associate Professor Larisa Yarovaya — Director of the Centre for Digital Finance, University of Southampton Professor Robert Elliott — Professor of Economics, University of Birmingham Dr John Hawkins — senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Maximilian Brichta — Communications, University of Southern California Donald Trump is establishing a US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. He wants it to rival the country's stockpile of gold. He boasts America will one day be the "Bitcoin superpower of the world", but what's his end game and what will it mean for future global finance? Questions are already being asked about why he's chosen to largely deregulate the cryptocurrency sector and whether his family's personal crypto interests are now driving US policy. Guests Associate Professor Larisa Yarovaya — Director of the Centre for Digital Finance, University of Southampton Professor Robert Elliott — Professor of Economics, University of Birmingham Dr John Hawkins — senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Maximilian Brichta — Communications, University of Southern California Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Donald Trump is establishing a US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. He wants it to rival the country's stockpile of gold. He boasts America will one day be the "Bitcoin superpower of the world", but what's his end game and what will it mean for future global finance? Questions are already being asked about why he's chosen to largely deregulate the cryptocurrency sector and whether his family's personal crypto interests are now driving US policy.

Guests

Associate Professor Larisa Yarovaya — Director of the Centre for Digital Finance, University of Southampton

Professor Robert Elliott — Professor of Economics, University of Birmingham

Dr John Hawkins — senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra

Maximilian Brichta — Communications, University of Southern California

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]]> 1778 Can the oceans solve our carbon removal problems? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/can-the-oceans-solve-our-carbon-removal-problems-/105199134 There's been growing research and investment in projects that use the oceans to artificially remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Such techniques involve both a biological and a chemical approach. To date, carbon removal technologies have been largely land-based, using giant air-purification machines, or planting trees to consume and store carbon. Those efforts have struggled to gain scale and acceptance. So, will a marine-based approach make any difference? It's a controversial idea and not without its difficulties. Guests Brad Ack — CEO, Ocean Visions James Kerry — Senior Marine and Climate Scientist, OceanCare; Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at James Cook University Romany Webb — Deputy Director, Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, Columbia Law School Rachel Rose Jackson — Climate Campaign Director, Corporate Accountability Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 08 May 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia There's been growing research and investment in projects that use the oceans to artificially remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Such techniques involve both a biological and a chemical approach. To date, carbon removal technologies have been largely land-based, using giant air-purification machines, or planting trees to consume and store carbon. Those efforts have struggled to gain scale and acceptance. So, will a marine-based approach make any difference? It's a controversial idea and not without its difficulties. Guests Brad Ack — CEO, Ocean Visions James Kerry — Senior Marine and Climate Scientist, OceanCare; Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at James Cook University Romany Webb — Deputy Director, Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, Columbia Law School Rachel Rose Jackson — Climate Campaign Director, Corporate Accountability There's been growing research and investment in projects that use the oceans to artificially remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Such techniques involve both a biological and a chemical approach. To date, carbon removal technologies have been largely land-based, using giant air-purification machines, or planting trees to consume and store carbon. Those efforts have struggled to gain scale and acceptance. So, will a marine-based approach make any difference? It's a controversial idea and not without its difficulties. Guests Brad Ack — CEO, Ocean Visions James Kerry — Senior Marine and Climate Scientist, OceanCare; Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at James Cook University Romany Webb — Deputy Director, Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, Columbia Law School Rachel Rose Jackson — Climate Campaign Director, Corporate Accountability Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There's been growing research and investment in projects that use the oceans to artificially remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Such techniques involve both a biological and a chemical approach.

To date, carbon removal technologies have been largely land-based, using giant air-purification machines, or planting trees to consume and store carbon. Those efforts have struggled to gain scale and acceptance. So, will a marine-based approach make any difference? It's a controversial idea and not without its difficulties.

Guests

Brad Ack — CEO, Ocean Visions

James Kerry — Senior Marine and Climate Scientist, OceanCare; Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at James Cook University

Romany Webb — Deputy Director, Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, Columbia Law School

Rachel Rose Jackson — Climate Campaign Director, Corporate Accountability

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]]> 1810 YouTube turns 20; and the interesting side of boredom https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/youtube-turns-20-and-the-interesting-side-of-boredom/105173922 YouTube is the second biggest website in the world, containing more than 14.8 billion videos. It's been a huge success, but its public image as a haven for influencers and digital monetisers belies its true character and role. Ryan McGrady from the University of Massachusetts takes us inside the online behemoth. Also, perspectives on boredom, its purpose and prevalence; its relationship to time, and why the measures we undertake to fight boredom so often backfire. Guests Isabella Lee — Production assistant, Guardian Australia Dr Michael Inzlicht — Professor of Philosophy, University of Toronto Dr Maria Balaska — Philosopher and Research Fellow at the University of Hertfordshire and Åbo Akademi University (Finland) Dr Ryan McGrady — Senior Research Fellow, Initiative for Digital Public Infrastructure, University of Massachusetts at Amherst Future Tense — The vicious cycle of fear and anger — and how it traps society Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 01 May 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia YouTube is the second biggest website in the world, containing more than 14.8 billion videos. It's been a huge success, but its public image as a haven for influencers and digital monetisers belies its true character and role. Ryan McGrady from the University of Massachusetts takes us inside the online behemoth. Also, perspectives on boredom, its purpose and prevalence; its relationship to time, and why the measures we undertake to fight boredom so often backfire. Guests Isabella Lee — Production assistant, Guardian Australia Dr Michael Inzlicht — Professor of Philosophy, University of Toronto Dr Maria Balaska — Philosopher and Research Fellow at the University of Hertfordshire and Åbo Akademi University (Finland) Dr Ryan McGrady — Senior Research Fellow, Initiative for Digital Public Infrastructure, University of Massachusetts at Amherst Future Tense — The vicious cycle of fear and anger — and how it traps society YouTube is the second biggest website in the world, containing more than 14.8 billion videos. It's been a huge success, but its public image as a haven for influencers and digital monetisers belies its true character and role. Ryan McGrady from the University of Massachusetts takes us inside the online behemoth. Also, perspectives on boredom, its purpose and prevalence; its relationship to time, and why the measures we undertake to fight boredom so often backfire. Guests Isabella Lee — Production assistant, Guardian Australia Dr Michael Inzlicht — Professor of Philosophy, University of Toronto Dr Maria Balaska — Philosopher and Research Fellow at the University of Hertfordshire and Åbo Akademi University (Finland) Dr Ryan McGrady — Senior Research Fellow, Initiative for Digital Public Infrastructure, University of Massachusetts at Amherst Future Tense — The vicious cycle of fear and anger — and how it traps society Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices YouTube is the second biggest website in the world, containing more than 14.8 billion videos. It's been a huge success, but its public image as a haven for influencers and digital monetisers belies its true character and role. Ryan McGrady from the University of Massachusetts takes us inside the online behemoth. Also, perspectives on boredom, its purpose and prevalence; its relationship to time, and why the measures we undertake to fight boredom so often backfire.

Guests

Isabella Lee — Production assistant, Guardian Australia

Dr Michael Inzlicht — Professor of Philosophy, University of Toronto

Dr Maria Balaska — Philosopher and Research Fellow at the University of Hertfordshire and Åbo Akademi University (Finland)

Dr Ryan McGrady — Senior Research Fellow, Initiative for Digital Public Infrastructure, University of Massachusetts at Amherst

Future Tense — The vicious cycle of fear and anger — and how it traps society

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]]> 1774 Remember the Jevons Paradox!  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/remember-the-jevons-paradox-/105149036 We like to think that increases in efficiency lead to greater sustainability – to lower resource use. But from cars to computers to bitcoin, it seems the reverse is true – efficiency stimulates demand. It’s an oft forgotten rule of economics called the Jevons Paradox, and it might explain why the demand for almost everything keeps going up even while we simultaneously fret about over-consumption. Also, would you accept a parcel from a stranger, take it on the bus or train with you, and then deliver it to another stranger for a small fee?  It might sound dodgy when you put it like that, but it’s part of an emerging delivery trend call “crowdshipping”. And proponents say it’s about reducing the environmental impact of transport.  Guests Dr Blair Fix – Political economist, York University (Canada)  Dr Adam Dorr – Director of Research, Rethink  Professor Lynette Cheah – Chair of Sustainable Transport, University of the Sunshine Coast   Further information Blair Fix article - A Tour of the Jevons Paradox: How Energy Efficiency Backfires Adam Dorr’s article - Rethinking the Jevons Paradox: why more clean energy efficiency is good for the environment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 24 Apr 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia We like to think that increases in efficiency lead to greater sustainability – to lower resource use. But from cars to computers to bitcoin, it seems the reverse is true – efficiency stimulates demand. It’s an oft forgotten rule of economics called the Jevons Paradox, and it might explain why the demand for almost everything keeps going up even while we simultaneously fret about over-consumption. Also, would you accept a parcel from a stranger, take it on the bus or train with you, and then deliver it to another stranger for a small fee?  It might sound dodgy when you put it like that, but it’s part of an emerging delivery trend call “crowdshipping”. And proponents say it’s about reducing the environmental impact of transport.  Guests Dr Blair Fix – Political economist, York University (Canada)  Dr Adam Dorr – Director of Research, Rethink  Professor Lynette Cheah – Chair of Sustainable Transport, University of the Sunshine Coast   Further information Blair Fix article - A Tour of the Jevons Paradox: How Energy Efficiency Backfires Adam Dorr’s article - Rethinking the Jevons Paradox: why more clean energy efficiency is good for the environment We like to think that increases in efficiency lead to greater sustainability – to lower resource use. But from cars to computers to bitcoin, it seems the reverse is true – efficiency stimulates demand. It’s an oft forgotten rule of economics called the Jevons Paradox, and it might explain why the demand for almost everything keeps going up even while we simultaneously fret about over-consumption. Also, would you accept a parcel from a stranger, take it on the bus or train with you, and then deliver it to another stranger for a small fee?  It might sound dodgy when you put it like that, but it’s part of an emerging delivery trend call “crowdshipping”. And proponents say it’s about reducing the environmental impact of transport.  Guests Dr Blair Fix – Political economist, York University (Canada)  Dr Adam Dorr – Director of Research, Rethink  Professor Lynette Cheah – Chair of Sustainable Transport, University of the Sunshine Coast   Further information Blair Fix article - A Tour of the Jevons Paradox: How Energy Efficiency Backfires Adam Dorr’s article - Rethinking the Jevons Paradox: why more clean energy efficiency is good for the environment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We like to think that increases in efficiency lead to greater sustainability – to lower resource use. But from cars to computers to bitcoin, it seems the reverse is true – efficiency stimulates demand. It’s an oft forgotten rule of economics called the Jevons Paradox, and it might explain why the demand for almost everything keeps going up even while we simultaneously fret about over-consumption. Also, would you accept a parcel from a stranger, take it on the bus or train with you, and then deliver it to another stranger for a small fee?  It might sound dodgy when you put it like that, but it’s part of an emerging delivery trend call “crowdshipping”. And proponents say it’s about reducing the environmental impact of transport. 

Guests

Dr Blair Fix – Political economist, York University (Canada) 

Dr Adam Dorr – Director of Research, Rethink 

Professor Lynette Cheah – Chair of Sustainable Transport, University of the Sunshine Coast 

 Further information

Blair Fix article - A Tour of the Jevons Paradox: How Energy Efficiency Backfires

Adam Dorr’s article - Rethinking the Jevons Paradox: why more clean energy efficiency is good for the environment

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]]> 1778 The power and peril of the optimistic mind https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-power-and-peril-of-the-optimistic-mind/105119032 Human beings have a bias toward optimism, says astrophysicist turned author and editor, Sumit Paul-Choudhury. While we may not always acknowledge it, the power of optimism is what drives our species forward. But beware of the modern craze for "Manifesting" — wishful thinking, no matter how intense, only has impact if it's married to action. Also, why we need to rethink globalisation's bad rap. International relations expert, Inanna Hamati-Ataya, argues there are no pure cultures and globalisation is really the means by which humanity flourishes. Guests Professor Inanna Hamati-Ataya — Chair of Global International Relations, University of Groningen, The Netherlands Sumit Paul-Choudhury — author, editor and Managing Director, Alternity Limited Associate Professor Laura D'Olimpio — School of Education, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom Further information Inanna Hamati-Ataya's article on globalisation  Laura D'Olimpio's article on manifesting  Sumit Paul-Choudhury's book The Bright Side Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 17 Apr 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Human beings have a bias toward optimism, says astrophysicist turned author and editor, Sumit Paul-Choudhury. While we may not always acknowledge it, the power of optimism is what drives our species forward. But beware of the modern craze for "Manifesting" — wishful thinking, no matter how intense, only has impact if it's married to action. Also, why we need to rethink globalisation's bad rap. International relations expert, Inanna Hamati-Ataya, argues there are no pure cultures and globalisation is really the means by which humanity flourishes. Guests Professor Inanna Hamati-Ataya — Chair of Global International Relations, University of Groningen, The Netherlands Sumit Paul-Choudhury — author, editor and Managing Director, Alternity Limited Associate Professor Laura D'Olimpio — School of Education, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom Further information Inanna Hamati-Ataya's article on globalisation  Laura D'Olimpio's article on manifesting  Sumit Paul-Choudhury's book The Bright Side Human beings have a bias toward optimism, says astrophysicist turned author and editor, Sumit Paul-Choudhury. While we may not always acknowledge it, the power of optimism is what drives our species forward. But beware of the modern craze for "Manifesting" — wishful thinking, no matter how intense, only has impact if it's married to action. Also, why we need to rethink globalisation's bad rap. International relations expert, Inanna Hamati-Ataya, argues there are no pure cultures and globalisation is really the means by which humanity flourishes. Guests Professor Inanna Hamati-Ataya — Chair of Global International Relations, University of Groningen, The Netherlands Sumit Paul-Choudhury — author, editor and Managing Director, Alternity Limited Associate Professor Laura D'Olimpio — School of Education, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom Further information Inanna Hamati-Ataya's article on globalisation  Laura D'Olimpio's article on manifesting  Sumit Paul-Choudhury's book The Bright Side Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Human beings have a bias toward optimism, says astrophysicist turned author and editor, Sumit Paul-Choudhury. While we may not always acknowledge it, the power of optimism is what drives our species forward. But beware of the modern craze for "Manifesting" — wishful thinking, no matter how intense, only has impact if it's married to action. Also, why we need to rethink globalisation's bad rap. International relations expert, Inanna Hamati-Ataya, argues there are no pure cultures and globalisation is really the means by which humanity flourishes.

Guests

Professor Inanna Hamati-Ataya — Chair of Global International Relations, University of Groningen, The Netherlands

Sumit Paul-Choudhury — author, editor and Managing Director, Alternity Limited

Associate Professor Laura D'Olimpio — School of Education, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom

Further information

Inanna Hamati-Ataya's article on globalisation 

Laura D'Olimpio's article on manifesting 

Sumit Paul-Choudhury's book The Bright Side

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]]> 1778 AI's "hidden labour" and the move toward a linkless internet https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/ai-s-hidden-labour-and-the-move-toward-a-linkless-internet/105091430 Artificial intelligence, it turns out, has a heavy human backend — they're called "data labellers"; they mostly live in developing countries, and there are ethical questions about their pay and work conditions. So, why aren't we talking more about them? Also, Google and other search companies have begun replacing hyperlinks with AI summaries. It's a move seemingly in line with our AI obsessed times, but what will it do to the tapestry of the internet? And will it simply make online information even harder to verify? Guests Dr Zena Assaad — Senior lecturer, School of Engineering, Australian National University Professor Toby Walsh — Laureate Fellow and Scientia Professor of Artificial Intelligence, University of New South Wales Dr Collin Jennings — writer and academic Further information Collin Jennings' article: A linkless internet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 10 Apr 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Artificial intelligence, it turns out, has a heavy human backend — they're called "data labellers"; they mostly live in developing countries, and there are ethical questions about their pay and work conditions. So, why aren't we talking more about them? Also, Google and other search companies have begun replacing hyperlinks with AI summaries. It's a move seemingly in line with our AI obsessed times, but what will it do to the tapestry of the internet? And will it simply make online information even harder to verify? Guests Dr Zena Assaad — Senior lecturer, School of Engineering, Australian National University Professor Toby Walsh — Laureate Fellow and Scientia Professor of Artificial Intelligence, University of New South Wales Dr Collin Jennings — writer and academic Further information Collin Jennings' article: A linkless internet Artificial intelligence, it turns out, has a heavy human backend — they're called "data labellers"; they mostly live in developing countries, and there are ethical questions about their pay and work conditions. So, why aren't we talking more about them? Also, Google and other search companies have begun replacing hyperlinks with AI summaries. It's a move seemingly in line with our AI obsessed times, but what will it do to the tapestry of the internet? And will it simply make online information even harder to verify? Guests Dr Zena Assaad — Senior lecturer, School of Engineering, Australian National University Professor Toby Walsh — Laureate Fellow and Scientia Professor of Artificial Intelligence, University of New South Wales Dr Collin Jennings — writer and academic Further information Collin Jennings' article: A linkless internet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Artificial intelligence, it turns out, has a heavy human backend — they're called "data labellers"; they mostly live in developing countries, and there are ethical questions about their pay and work conditions. So, why aren't we talking more about them? Also, Google and other search companies have begun replacing hyperlinks with AI summaries. It's a move seemingly in line with our AI obsessed times, but what will it do to the tapestry of the internet? And will it simply make online information even harder to verify?

Guests

Dr Zena Assaad — Senior lecturer, School of Engineering, Australian National University

Professor Toby Walsh — Laureate Fellow and Scientia Professor of Artificial Intelligence, University of New South Wales

Dr Collin Jennings — writer and academic

Further information

Collin Jennings' article: A linkless internet

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]]> 1777 The roots of techno-authoritarianism https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-roots-of-techno-authoritarianism/105064168 Does the spirit of the "Futurist" movement live on today in the likes of Elon Musk and America's intrigue of techno-oligarchs? The Italian poet and fantasist Flippo Tommaso Marinetti almost died in a car crash, and out of that experience was born the "Futurist" movement. It went on to inspire the fascism of Benito Mussolini with an energetic emphasis on disruptive technology, conflict and creating an authoritarian future. Guests Annalee Newitz — Journalist and author Dr Jonathan White — Professor of politics, London School of Economics Further information Jonathan White’s article - How Trump and the new right came to ‘own’ the future – while apparently exploiting the past | Jonathan White | The Guardian Annalee Newitz’s article – How futurism took an abrupt right turn in the 20th century Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 03 Apr 2025 23:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Does the spirit of the "Futurist" movement live on today in the likes of Elon Musk and America's intrigue of techno-oligarchs? The Italian poet and fantasist Flippo Tommaso Marinetti almost died in a car crash, and out of that experience was born the "Futurist" movement. It went on to inspire the fascism of Benito Mussolini with an energetic emphasis on disruptive technology, conflict and creating an authoritarian future. Guests Annalee Newitz — Journalist and author Dr Jonathan White — Professor of politics, London School of Economics Further information Jonathan White’s article - How Trump and the new right came to ‘own’ the future – while apparently exploiting the past | Jonathan White | The Guardian   Annalee Newitz’s article – How futurism took an abrupt right turn in the 20th century Does the spirit of the "Futurist" movement live on today in the likes of Elon Musk and America's intrigue of techno-oligarchs? The Italian poet and fantasist Flippo Tommaso Marinetti almost died in a car crash, and out of that experience was born the "Futurist" movement. It went on to inspire the fascism of Benito Mussolini with an energetic emphasis on disruptive technology, conflict and creating an authoritarian future. Guests Annalee Newitz — Journalist and author Dr Jonathan White — Professor of politics, London School of Economics Further information Jonathan White’s article - How Trump and the new right came to ‘own’ the future – while apparently exploiting the past | Jonathan White | The Guardian Annalee Newitz’s article – How futurism took an abrupt right turn in the 20th century Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Does the spirit of the "Futurist" movement live on today in the likes of Elon Musk and America's intrigue of techno-oligarchs? The Italian poet and fantasist Flippo Tommaso Marinetti almost died in a car crash, and out of that experience was born the "Futurist" movement. It went on to inspire the fascism of Benito Mussolini with an energetic emphasis on disruptive technology, conflict and creating an authoritarian future.

Guests

Annalee Newitz — Journalist and author

Dr Jonathan White — Professor of politics, London School of Economics

Further information

Jonathan White’s article - How Trump and the new right came to ‘own’ the future – while apparently exploiting the past | Jonathan White | The Guardian

Annalee Newitz’s article – How futurism took an abrupt right turn in the 20th century

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]]> 1778 Some challenges to conventional economic thinking  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/some-challenges-to-conventional-economic-thinking-/105034898 Does modern economic thinking act as a roadblock to change? Economists Kate Raworth and Rainer Kattel certainly think so. The alternatives they propose involve acknowledging limits not just obsessing about growth. And a caution from design and management expert Raz Godelink – it always pays to be skeptical when big business puts on the sustainability suit.  Guests Kate Raworth – Economist and co-founder of Doughnut Economics Action Lab  Raz Godelnik – Associate Professor of Strategic Design and Management at the School of Design Strategies, Parson's School of Design  Rainer Kattel – Deputy Director and Professor of Innovation and Public Governance, UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, University College London  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Mar 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Does modern economic thinking act as a roadblock to change? Economists Kate Raworth and Rainer Kattel certainly think so. The alternatives they propose involve acknowledging limits not just obsessing about growth. And a caution from design and management expert Raz Godelink – it always pays to be skeptical when big business puts on the sustainability suit.  Guests Kate Raworth – Economist and co-founder of Doughnut Economics Action Lab  Raz Godelnik – Associate Professor of Strategic Design and Management at the School of Design Strategies, Parson's School of Design  Rainer Kattel – Deputy Director and Professor of Innovation and Public Governance, UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, University College London  Does modern economic thinking act as a roadblock to change? Economists Kate Raworth and Rainer Kattel certainly think so. The alternatives they propose involve acknowledging limits not just obsessing about growth. And a caution from design and management expert Raz Godelink – it always pays to be skeptical when big business puts on the sustainability suit.  Guests Kate Raworth – Economist and co-founder of Doughnut Economics Action Lab  Raz Godelnik – Associate Professor of Strategic Design and Management at the School of Design Strategies, Parson's School of Design  Rainer Kattel – Deputy Director and Professor of Innovation and Public Governance, UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, University College London  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Does modern economic thinking act as a roadblock to change? Economists Kate Raworth and Rainer Kattel certainly think so. The alternatives they propose involve acknowledging limits not just obsessing about growth. And a caution from design and management expert Raz Godelink – it always pays to be skeptical when big business puts on the sustainability suit. 

Guests

Kate Raworth – Economist and co-founder of Doughnut Economics Action Lab 

Raz Godelnik – Associate Professor of Strategic Design and Management at the School of Design Strategies, Parson's School of Design 

Rainer Kattel – Deputy Director and Professor of Innovation and Public Governance, UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, University College London 

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]]> 1778 Civility, trash talking and more sociable cities https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/civility-trash-talking-and-more-sociable-cities/105004668 It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here? We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities. And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable? Guests Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University Further information Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage Keith Bybee - How Civility Works Sociable Cities Project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Mar 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here? We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities. And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable? Guests Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University Further information Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage Keith Bybee - How Civility Works Sociable Cities Project It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here? We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities. And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable? Guests Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University Further information Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage Keith Bybee - How Civility Works Sociable Cities Project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It certainly feels like a very shouty world. But have we really reached a new low point in civility? And, if so, where to from here?

We examine what civility really entails and how it can help foster cooperation but also lead to the submission of minorities.

And did you know that even the design of our urban spaces can shape and limit acts of civility? So, how can we make our cities more sociable?

Guests

Dr Eduardo Sadoval — Social Roboticist, UNSW

Dr Saara Liinamaa — Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph. Also, co-investigator, Sociable Cities Project

Rafi Kohan — US-based freelance writer and author

Dr Keith Bybee — Professor of Law and Political Science, Syracuse University

Further information

Rafi Kohan - Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage

Keith Bybee - How Civility Works

Sociable Cities Project

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]]> 1778 Limitarianism — could a cap on wealth reduce inequality? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/cap-on-wealth-reduce-inequality-tax-the-super-rich/104977360 When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism. Original broadcast on June 21, 2024. Guests Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands) Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future Further information Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Mar 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism. Original broadcast on June 21, 2024. Guests Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands) Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future Further information Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet    Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism. Original broadcast on June 21, 2024. Guests Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands) Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future Further information Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism.

Original broadcast on June 21, 2024.

Guests

Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands)

Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist

Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires

Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris

Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future

Further information

Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth

Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich

Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet

Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1778 Understanding attention and a craving for certainty https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/understanding-attention-and-a-craving-for-certainty/104948544 Are we really facing an attention crisis? Historian, Daniel Immerwahr, has his doubts. In fact, he says ours is an era of obsession as much as distraction and of zeal as much as indifference. Also, the paradox of certainty: we crave it, argues the University of Alberta's, Timothy Caulfield, even though it's so easy to fake. Guests Daniel Immerwahr — author and Professor of History, Northwestern University and a contributing writer at The New Yorker Timothy Caulfield — author and Professor of law, University of Alberta Professor Gloria Mark — data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine Further information Timothy Coulfield: The Certainty Illusion. What You Don't Know and Why It Matters Daniel Immerwahr's article on Attention Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 07 Mar 2025 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Are we really facing an attention crisis? Historian, Daniel Immerwahr, has his doubts. In fact, he says ours is an era of obsession as much as distraction and of zeal as much as indifference. Also, the paradox of certainty: we crave it, argues the University of Alberta's, Timothy Caulfield, even though it's so easy to fake. Guests Daniel Immerwahr — author and Professor of History, Northwestern University and a contributing writer at The New Yorker Timothy Caulfield — author and Professor of law, University of Alberta Professor Gloria Mark — data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine Further information Timothy Coulfield: The Certainty Illusion. What You Don't Know and Why It Matters Daniel Immerwahr's article on Attention  Are we really facing an attention crisis? Historian, Daniel Immerwahr, has his doubts. In fact, he says ours is an era of obsession as much as distraction and of zeal as much as indifference. Also, the paradox of certainty: we crave it, argues the University of Alberta's, Timothy Caulfield, even though it's so easy to fake. Guests Daniel Immerwahr — author and Professor of History, Northwestern University and a contributing writer at The New Yorker Timothy Caulfield — author and Professor of law, University of Alberta Professor Gloria Mark — data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine Further information Timothy Coulfield: The Certainty Illusion. What You Don't Know and Why It Matters Daniel Immerwahr's article on Attention Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are we really facing an attention crisis? Historian, Daniel Immerwahr, has his doubts. In fact, he says ours is an era of obsession as much as distraction and of zeal as much as indifference. Also, the paradox of certainty: we crave it, argues the University of Alberta's, Timothy Caulfield, even though it's so easy to fake.

Guests

Daniel Immerwahr — author and Professor of History, Northwestern University and a contributing writer at The New Yorker

Timothy Caulfield — author and Professor of law, University of Alberta

Professor Gloria Mark — data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine

Further information

Timothy Coulfield: The Certainty Illusion. What You Don't Know and Why It Matters

Daniel Immerwahr's article on Attention

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]]> 1778 Flow Batteries, windships, and a new approach to off-grid solar https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/flow-batteries-windships-and-a-new-approach-to-off-grid-solar/104919840 They're cheaper and safer than their lithium counterparts, they're easier to scale-up, and they can hold power for much longer than conventional batteries, so why aren't flow batteries better known? The technology has been under development for decades, but enthusiasts now say they're finding their place in the sun. Also, why more and more cargo companies are turning to wind-power; and do developing countries need to rethink their approach to off-grid power. Guests Emeritus Professor Maria Skyllas-Kazacos — School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, University of New South Wales Emily Mahoney — Researcher, Malapit Lab, Northwestern University (US) Adjunct Associate Professor Jens Noack — Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland Associate Prof Paul Munro — Associate Professor in Human Geography, The Environment and Society Group, University of New South Wales Gavin Allwright — Secretary General, International Windship Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Feb 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia They're cheaper and safer than their lithium counterparts, they're easier to scale-up, and they can hold power for much longer than conventional batteries, so why aren't flow batteries better known? The technology has been under development for decades, but enthusiasts now say they're finding their place in the sun. Also, why more and more cargo companies are turning to wind-power; and do developing countries need to rethink their approach to off-grid power. Guests Emeritus Professor Maria Skyllas-Kazacos — School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, University of New South Wales Emily Mahoney — Researcher, Malapit Lab, Northwestern University (US) Adjunct Associate Professor Jens Noack — Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland Associate Prof Paul Munro — Associate Professor in Human Geography, The Environment and Society Group, University of New South Wales Gavin Allwright — Secretary General, International Windship Association They're cheaper and safer than their lithium counterparts, they're easier to scale-up, and they can hold power for much longer than conventional batteries, so why aren't flow batteries better known? The technology has been under development for decades, but enthusiasts now say they're finding their place in the sun. Also, why more and more cargo companies are turning to wind-power; and do developing countries need to rethink their approach to off-grid power. Guests Emeritus Professor Maria Skyllas-Kazacos — School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, University of New South Wales Emily Mahoney — Researcher, Malapit Lab, Northwestern University (US) Adjunct Associate Professor Jens Noack — Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland Associate Prof Paul Munro — Associate Professor in Human Geography, The Environment and Society Group, University of New South Wales Gavin Allwright — Secretary General, International Windship Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices They're cheaper and safer than their lithium counterparts, they're easier to scale-up, and they can hold power for much longer than conventional batteries, so why aren't flow batteries better known? The technology has been under development for decades, but enthusiasts now say they're finding their place in the sun. Also, why more and more cargo companies are turning to wind-power; and do developing countries need to rethink their approach to off-grid power.

Guests

Emeritus Professor Maria Skyllas-Kazacos — School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, University of New South Wales

Emily Mahoney — Researcher, Malapit Lab, Northwestern University (US)

Adjunct Associate Professor Jens Noack — Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland

Associate Prof Paul Munro — Associate Professor in Human Geography, The Environment and Society Group, University of New South Wales

Gavin Allwright — Secretary General, International Windship Association

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]]> 1778 Modern museums, accountability, and openness https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/modern-museums-accountability-and-openness-/104892078 The Victoria and Albert Museum in London is opening-up its storeroom, turning the back end of the operation into a public resource. It's about attracting new patrons, but it's also about accountability, the Museum's managers have declared. Across the Western world museums are having to reexamine their mission and redefine the relationship they have with the public they're meant to serve. We explore why and how. We also look at the balance that's being struck between the physical artefact and its digital equivalent. Guests Tim Reeve — Deputy Director, Victorian and Albert Museum, London Dan Hicks — Professor of Contemporary Archaeology, Oxford University Karin de Wild — Assistant Professor in Contemporary Museum and Collection Studies, Leiden University (The Netherlands) Kylie Message-Jones — Professor of Public Humanities, ANU Humanities Research Centre Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Feb 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The Victoria and Albert Museum in London is opening-up its storeroom, turning the back end of the operation into a public resource. It's about attracting new patrons, but it's also about accountability, the Museum's managers have declared. Across the Western world museums are having to reexamine their mission and redefine the relationship they have with the public they're meant to serve. We explore why and how. We also look at the balance that's being struck between the physical artefact and its digital equivalent. Guests Tim Reeve — Deputy Director, Victorian and Albert Museum, London Dan Hicks — Professor of Contemporary Archaeology, Oxford University Karin de Wild — Assistant Professor in Contemporary Museum and Collection Studies, Leiden University (The Netherlands) Kylie Message-Jones — Professor of Public Humanities, ANU Humanities Research Centre The Victoria and Albert Museum in London is opening-up its storeroom, turning the back end of the operation into a public resource. It's about attracting new patrons, but it's also about accountability, the Museum's managers have declared. Across the Western world museums are having to reexamine their mission and redefine the relationship they have with the public they're meant to serve. We explore why and how. We also look at the balance that's being struck between the physical artefact and its digital equivalent. Guests Tim Reeve — Deputy Director, Victorian and Albert Museum, London Dan Hicks — Professor of Contemporary Archaeology, Oxford University Karin de Wild — Assistant Professor in Contemporary Museum and Collection Studies, Leiden University (The Netherlands) Kylie Message-Jones — Professor of Public Humanities, ANU Humanities Research Centre Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The Victoria and Albert Museum in London is opening-up its storeroom, turning the back end of the operation into a public resource. It's about attracting new patrons, but it's also about accountability, the Museum's managers have declared. Across the Western world museums are having to reexamine their mission and redefine the relationship they have with the public they're meant to serve. We explore why and how. We also look at the balance that's being struck between the physical artefact and its digital equivalent.

Guests

Tim Reeve — Deputy Director, Victorian and Albert Museum, London

Dan Hicks — Professor of Contemporary Archaeology, Oxford University

Karin de Wild — Assistant Professor in Contemporary Museum and Collection Studies, Leiden University (The Netherlands)

Kylie Message-Jones — Professor of Public Humanities, ANU Humanities Research Centre

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]]> 1778 Nuclear tombs and the distant discourse of danger https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/nuclear-waste-tombs-and-the-distant-discourse-of-danger/104886354 A series of massive underground tombs for nuclear waste are currently under construction. They've taken decades to plan and build and they're designed to house the world's nuclear waste for millennia to come. So where are they being built? How safe will they be? And how to devise a toxic waste warning sign that will make sense to people living tens of thousands of years from now? Also, the latest research on how climate change is beginning to impact on internal migration within countries. Guests Mark Piesing — a UK-based freelance journalist Dr Shastra Deo — Nuclear semiotics expert and author, School of Communication and Arts, University of Queensland Professor Raya Muttarak — Professor of Demography, University of Bologna (Italy) Lisa — a climate-concerned resident of South-east Queensland Further information Mark Piesing's article: How to build a nuclear tomb to last millennia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Feb 2025 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia A series of massive underground tombs for nuclear waste are currently under construction. They've taken decades to plan and build and they're designed to house the world's nuclear waste for millennia to come. So where are they being built? How safe will they be? And how to devise a toxic waste warning sign that will make sense to people living tens of thousands of years from now? Also, the latest research on how climate change is beginning to impact on internal migration within countries. Guests Mark Piesing — a UK-based freelance journalist Dr Shastra Deo — Nuclear semiotics expert and author, School of Communication and Arts, University of Queensland Professor Raya Muttarak — Professor of Demography, University of Bologna (Italy) Lisa — a climate-concerned resident of South-east Queensland Further information Mark Piesing's article: How to build a nuclear tomb to last millennia A series of massive underground tombs for nuclear waste are currently under construction. They've taken decades to plan and build and they're designed to house the world's nuclear waste for millennia to come. So where are they being built? How safe will they be? And how to devise a toxic waste warning sign that will make sense to people living tens of thousands of years from now? Also, the latest research on how climate change is beginning to impact on internal migration within countries. Guests Mark Piesing — a UK-based freelance journalist Dr Shastra Deo — Nuclear semiotics expert and author, School of Communication and Arts, University of Queensland Professor Raya Muttarak — Professor of Demography, University of Bologna (Italy) Lisa — a climate-concerned resident of South-east Queensland Further information Mark Piesing's article: How to build a nuclear tomb to last millennia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices A series of massive underground tombs for nuclear waste are currently under construction. They've taken decades to plan and build and they're designed to house the world's nuclear waste for millennia to come. So where are they being built? How safe will they be? And how to devise a toxic waste warning sign that will make sense to people living tens of thousands of years from now?

Also, the latest research on how climate change is beginning to impact on internal migration within countries.

Guests

Mark Piesing — a UK-based freelance journalist

Dr Shastra Deo — Nuclear semiotics expert and author, School of Communication and Arts, University of Queensland

Professor Raya Muttarak — Professor of Demography, University of Bologna (Italy)

Lisa — a climate-concerned resident of South-east Queensland

Further information

Mark Piesing's article: How to build a nuclear tomb to last millennia

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]]> 1778 The danger of generational labelling https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-danger-of-generational-labelling/104860460 Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back. Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes. So why are generational labels so popular? Guests Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth. Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia Further information Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels  Pew Research Center's response Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 06 Feb 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back. Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes. So why are generational labels so popular? Guests Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth. Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia Further information Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels  Pew Research Center's response Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back. Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes. So why are generational labels so popular? Guests Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth. Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia Further information Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels  Pew Research Center's response Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Terms like "Gen Z", "Boomer" and "Millennial" are popular, but they have no basis in science. Demographers and social scientists are now pushing back. Generational labelling, they argue, is akin to Astrology and while politicians, journalists and media influencers find them irresistible, they actually promote pseudo-science, sew social division and can reinforce prejudicial stereotypes. So why are generational labels so popular?

Guests

Professor Bobby Duffy — Director of the Policy Institute, King's College London. Author of The Generation Myth.

Professor Philip Coen — Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland

Professor Crystal Abidin — digital anthropologist and ethnographer of vernacular internet cultures, Curtin University

Professor David Costanza — Professor of Commerce, University of Virginia

Further information

Philip Coen’s open letter to Pew Research Center on generation labels 

Pew Research Center's response

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]]> 1778 Could Utopian thinking save democracy?   https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/could-utopian-thinking-save-democracy-/104522810 Why does Utopian thinking get such a bad rap? It’s often derided as delusional and dangerous. But what if that stereotype is designed to limit our imagination and choices? We hear often that people are tired of democracy and turned off by short-term political thinking. So, is it time to be much more adventurous and ambitious – dare we say utopian – in our imagining of the future?    Guests Professor William Paris – Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy, University of Toronto  Professor Barbara Prainsack – Professor for Comparative Policy Analysis, University of Vienna  Professor Anna Abraham – Director of the Torrance Centre for Creativity and Talent Development  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Why does Utopian thinking get such a bad rap? It’s often derided as delusional and dangerous. But what if that stereotype is designed to limit our imagination and choices? We hear often that people are tired of democracy and turned off by short-term political thinking. So, is it time to be much more adventurous and ambitious – dare we say utopian – in our imagining of the future?    Guests Professor William Paris – Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy, University of Toronto  Professor Barbara Prainsack – Professor for Comparative Policy Analysis, University of Vienna  Professor Anna Abraham – Director of the Torrance Centre for Creativity and Talent Development  Why does Utopian thinking get such a bad rap? It’s often derided as delusional and dangerous. But what if that stereotype is designed to limit our imagination and choices? We hear often that people are tired of democracy and turned off by short-term political thinking. So, is it time to be much more adventurous and ambitious – dare we say utopian – in our imagining of the future?    Guests Professor William Paris – Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy, University of Toronto  Professor Barbara Prainsack – Professor for Comparative Policy Analysis, University of Vienna  Professor Anna Abraham – Director of the Torrance Centre for Creativity and Talent Development  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Why does Utopian thinking get such a bad rap? It’s often derided as delusional and dangerous. But what if that stereotype is designed to limit our imagination and choices? We hear often that people are tired of democracy and turned off by short-term political thinking. So, is it time to be much more adventurous and ambitious – dare we say utopian – in our imagining of the future?   

Guests

Professor William Paris – Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy, University of Toronto 

Professor Barbara Prainsack – Professor for Comparative Policy Analysis, University of Vienna 

Professor Anna Abraham – Director of the Torrance Centre for Creativity and Talent Development 

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]]> 1808 How to ensure privatisation serves the public good https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/how-to-ensure-privatisation-serves-the-public-good/104494176 Privatising public services like trains, hospitals or prisons — is a proven vote loser. But governments of both the left and right continue to privatise — when it suits them. And it suits them, it seems, when large sums of money are needed to pay down debt, or when a government seeks to off load risk and liability to the private sector. So, what conditions should be applied to ensure that privatisations truly serve the public interest and don't simply decrease competition? Guests Owen Hayford — Strategic legal and commercial adviser, Infralegal Nino Bucci — Justice and Courts Reporter, The Guardian Richard Denniss — economist and public policy commentator Professor Graeme Samuel — Monash University Business School Benjamin Goodair – Senior post-doctoral researcher, Oxford Universty  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Privatising public services like trains, hospitals or prisons — is a proven vote loser. But governments of both the left and right continue to privatise — when it suits them. And it suits them, it seems, when large sums of money are needed to pay down debt, or when a government seeks to off load risk and liability to the private sector. So, what conditions should be applied to ensure that privatisations truly serve the public interest and don't simply decrease competition? Guests Owen Hayford — Strategic legal and commercial adviser, Infralegal Nino Bucci — Justice and Courts Reporter, The Guardian Richard Denniss — economist and public policy commentator Professor Graeme Samuel — Monash University Business School Benjamin Goodair – Senior post-doctoral researcher, Oxford Universty  Privatising public services like trains, hospitals or prisons — is a proven vote loser. But governments of both the left and right continue to privatise — when it suits them. And it suits them, it seems, when large sums of money are needed to pay down debt, or when a government seeks to off load risk and liability to the private sector. So, what conditions should be applied to ensure that privatisations truly serve the public interest and don't simply decrease competition? Guests Owen Hayford — Strategic legal and commercial adviser, Infralegal Nino Bucci — Justice and Courts Reporter, The Guardian Richard Denniss — economist and public policy commentator Professor Graeme Samuel — Monash University Business School Benjamin Goodair – Senior post-doctoral researcher, Oxford Universty  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Privatising public services like trains, hospitals or prisons — is a proven vote loser. But governments of both the left and right continue to privatise — when it suits them. And it suits them, it seems, when large sums of money are needed to pay down debt, or when a government seeks to off load risk and liability to the private sector. So, what conditions should be applied to ensure that privatisations truly serve the public interest and don't simply decrease competition?

Guests

Owen Hayford — Strategic legal and commercial adviser, Infralegal

Nino Bucci — Justice and Courts Reporter, The Guardian

Richard Denniss — economist and public policy commentator

Professor Graeme Samuel — Monash University Business School

Benjamin Goodair – Senior post-doctoral researcher, Oxford Universty 

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]]> 1806 The vicious cycle of fear and anger — and how it traps society https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/vicious-cycle-anger-fear-emotions-society/104466318 Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fueling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle. Guests Erika Ferszt – Owner, founder and lead-consultant, Scintillate Brand Consulting Professor Jennifer Lerner – Public Policy, Management and Decision Science, Harvard University Professor Robert Peckham – historian and Fellow at the Royal Historical Society, London Margot Faraci – Global leadership expert Further information Robert Peckham – Fear: An Alternative History of the World  Margot Faraci - Love Leadership Survey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 Jan 2025 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fueling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle. Guests Erika Ferszt – Owner, founder and lead-consultant, Scintillate Brand Consulting Professor Jennifer Lerner – Public Policy, Management and Decision Science, Harvard University Professor Robert Peckham – historian and Fellow at the Royal Historical Society, London Margot Faraci – Global leadership expert Further information Robert Peckham – Fear: An Alternative History of the World  Margot Faraci - Love Leadership Survey Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fueling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle. Guests Erika Ferszt – Owner, founder and lead-consultant, Scintillate Brand Consulting Professor Jennifer Lerner – Public Policy, Management and Decision Science, Harvard University Professor Robert Peckham – historian and Fellow at the Royal Historical Society, London Margot Faraci – Global leadership expert Further information Robert Peckham – Fear: An Alternative History of the World  Margot Faraci - Love Leadership Survey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fueling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle.

Guests

Erika Ferszt – Owner, founder and lead-consultant, Scintillate Brand Consulting

Professor Jennifer Lerner – Public Policy, Management and Decision Science, Harvard University

Professor Robert Peckham – historian and Fellow at the Royal Historical Society, London

Margot Faraci – Global leadership expert

Further information

Robert Peckham – Fear: An Alternative History of the World 

Margot Faraci - Love Leadership Survey

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]]> 1808 Algorithms create a dull conformity — off and online https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/algorithms-culture-conformity-attention/104462494 Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating. Guests Professor Gloria Mark – data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine Kyle Chayka – author and contributing writer for The New Yorker Further information Gloria Mark - Attention Span: A Ground Breaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity  Kyle Chayka – Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 Jan 2025 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating. Guests Professor Gloria Mark – data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine Kyle Chayka – author and contributing writer for The New Yorker Further information Gloria Mark - Attention Span: A Ground Breaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity  Kyle Chayka – Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture  Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating. Guests Professor Gloria Mark – data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine Kyle Chayka – author and contributing writer for The New Yorker Further information Gloria Mark - Attention Span: A Ground Breaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity  Kyle Chayka – Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating.

Guests

Professor Gloria Mark – data scientist and psychologist, Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine

Kyle Chayka – author and contributing writer for The New Yorker

Further information

Gloria Mark - Attention Span: A Ground Breaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity 

Kyle Chayka – Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture 

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]]> 1808 The must-have skill for the future: Untangling unintended consequences https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/unintended-consequences-future-complexity/104462706 In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking. Guests Dr Edward Crawley – Ford Professor of Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Dr Isabel Sebastian – Research Principal, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Gavin Maguire – Global Energy Transition Columnist, Reuters News Nicola Twilley – Writer and podcaster, author of the forthcoming book "The Birth of Cool" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 02 Jan 2025 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking. Guests Dr Edward Crawley – Ford Professor of Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Dr Isabel Sebastian – Research Principal, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Gavin Maguire – Global Energy Transition Columnist, Reuters News Nicola Twilley – Writer and podcaster, author of the forthcoming book "The Birth of Cool" In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking. Guests Dr Edward Crawley – Ford Professor of Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Dr Isabel Sebastian – Research Principal, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Gavin Maguire – Global Energy Transition Columnist, Reuters News Nicola Twilley – Writer and podcaster, author of the forthcoming book "The Birth of Cool" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking.

Guests

Dr Edward Crawley – Ford Professor of Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Dr Isabel Sebastian – Research Principal, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney

Gavin Maguire – Global Energy Transition Columnist, Reuters News

Nicola Twilley – Writer and podcaster, author of the forthcoming book "The Birth of Cool"

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]]> 1808 Nostalgia can make you vulnerable to manipulation https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/nostalia-culure-come-to-a-standstill-manipulation/104462474 Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with Richard King about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium. Guests Richard King – author and critic Jason Farago – author, social commentator and critic-at-large, The New York Times Further information Richard’s Griffith Review essay - Nostalgia on demand Jason’s NYT essay - Why Culture Has Come to a Standstill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 26 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with Richard King about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium. Guests Richard King – author and critic Jason Farago – author, social commentator and critic-at-large, The New York Times Further information Richard’s Griffith Review essay - Nostalgia on demand Jason’s NYT essay - Why Culture Has Come to a Standstill Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with Richard King about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium. Guests Richard King – author and critic Jason Farago – author, social commentator and critic-at-large, The New York Times Further information Richard’s Griffith Review essay - Nostalgia on demand Jason’s NYT essay - Why Culture Has Come to a Standstill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with Richard King about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium.

Guests

Richard King – author and critic

Jason Farago – author, social commentator and critic-at-large, The New York Times

Further information

Richard’s Griffith Review essay - Nostalgia on demand

Jason’s NYT essay - Why Culture Has Come to a Standstill

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]]> 1808 The artificial secret behind "natural food" https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/natural-artificial-food-eating-technology/104462504 Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating. We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app. Guests Professor Sarah Bridle – Chair in Food, Climate and Society, University of York Alan Levinovitz – Associate Professor of Religious Studies, James Madison University Laura Marchese – Researcher, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University Julie Chapon – Co-founder of the Yuka app Lisa – Brisbane-based food-rating app user Further information Sarah Bridle: Food and Climate Change -- Without the Hot Air, UIT Cambridge Climate Stack Calculator - A free tool to help you add up the climate impact of different food choices Play the game: Which of your food choices have the biggest climate impact?    Take A Bite Out of Climate – resources and games to learn how food choices contribute to climate change  BBC Future – Foodprint Calculator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating. We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app. Guests Professor Sarah Bridle – Chair in Food, Climate and Society, University of York Alan Levinovitz – Associate Professor of Religious Studies, James Madison University Laura Marchese – Researcher, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University Julie Chapon – Co-founder of the Yuka app Lisa – Brisbane-based food-rating app user Further information Sarah Bridle: Food and Climate Change -- Without the Hot Air, UIT Cambridge Climate Stack Calculator - A free tool to help you add up the climate impact of different food choices Play the game: Which of your food choices have the biggest climate impact?    Take A Bite Out of Climate – resources and games to learn how food choices contribute to climate change  BBC Future – Foodprint Calculator  Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating. We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app. Guests Professor Sarah Bridle – Chair in Food, Climate and Society, University of York Alan Levinovitz – Associate Professor of Religious Studies, James Madison University Laura Marchese – Researcher, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University Julie Chapon – Co-founder of the Yuka app Lisa – Brisbane-based food-rating app user Further information Sarah Bridle: Food and Climate Change -- Without the Hot Air, UIT Cambridge Climate Stack Calculator - A free tool to help you add up the climate impact of different food choices Play the game: Which of your food choices have the biggest climate impact?    Take A Bite Out of Climate – resources and games to learn how food choices contribute to climate change  BBC Future – Foodprint Calculator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating.

We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app.

Guests

Professor Sarah Bridle – Chair in Food, Climate and Society, University of York

Alan Levinovitz – Associate Professor of Religious Studies, James Madison University

Laura Marchese – Researcher, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University

Julie Chapon – Co-founder of the Yuka app

Lisa – Brisbane-based food-rating app user

Further information

Sarah Bridle: Food and Climate Change -- Without the Hot Air, UIT Cambridge

Climate Stack Calculator - A free tool to help you add up the climate impact of different food choices

Play the game: Which of your food choices have the biggest climate impact?   

Take A Bite Out of Climate – resources and games to learn how food choices contribute to climate change 

BBC Future – Foodprint Calculator

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]]> 1808 The role genetics could play in bringing down Methane levels https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-role-genetics-could-play-in-bringing-down-methane-levels/104459042 Methane levels are going up — not down, despite decades spent trying to reduce emissions from agriculture and landfill. But some countries are bucking the trend, we find out who and how. Breeding sheep and cattle to burp less is one way to reduce methane emissions. ABC Top 5 Science Residency recipient Luisa Olmo talks us through a genetic selection programme that could lead the way forward. Guests Dr Ed Clayton – Ruminant nutritionist, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Professor Sam Clark – Professor of Animal Genetics, University of New England Dr Pep Canadell – Chief Research Scientist, CSIRO Environment Producer Dr Luisa Olmo — Research Officer, Meat Science and Value Chains, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Dec 2024 22:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Methane levels are going up — not down, despite decades spent trying to reduce emissions from agriculture and landfill. But some countries are bucking the trend, we find out who and how. Breeding sheep and cattle to burp less is one way to reduce methane emissions. ABC Top 5 Science Residency recipient Luisa Olmo talks us through a genetic selection programme that could lead the way forward. Guests Dr Ed Clayton – Ruminant nutritionist, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Professor Sam Clark – Professor of Animal Genetics, University of New England Dr Pep Canadell – Chief Research Scientist, CSIRO Environment Producer Dr Luisa Olmo — Research Officer, Meat Science and Value Chains, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Methane levels are going up — not down, despite decades spent trying to reduce emissions from agriculture and landfill. But some countries are bucking the trend, we find out who and how. Breeding sheep and cattle to burp less is one way to reduce methane emissions. ABC Top 5 Science Residency recipient Luisa Olmo talks us through a genetic selection programme that could lead the way forward. Guests Dr Ed Clayton – Ruminant nutritionist, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Professor Sam Clark – Professor of Animal Genetics, University of New England Dr Pep Canadell – Chief Research Scientist, CSIRO Environment Producer Dr Luisa Olmo — Research Officer, Meat Science and Value Chains, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Methane levels are going up — not down, despite decades spent trying to reduce emissions from agriculture and landfill. But some countries are bucking the trend, we find out who and how.

Breeding sheep and cattle to burp less is one way to reduce methane emissions. ABC Top 5 Science Residency recipient Luisa Olmo talks us through a genetic selection programme that could lead the way forward.

Guests

Dr Ed Clayton – Ruminant nutritionist, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Professor Sam Clark – Professor of Animal Genetics, University of New England

Dr Pep Canadell – Chief Research Scientist, CSIRO Environment

Producer

Dr Luisa Olmo — Research Officer, Meat Science and Value Chains, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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]]> 1807 The cities that create rain; AI in warfare; and do carbon offsets really work? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/cities-that-create-rain-ai-warfare-carbon-offset/104453540 The design of your city contributes to how much rain you get. Researchers have found a 'wet island effect' and it's likely to shape the future construction of our cities. Also, better understanding how Artificial Intelligence is used in conflict; and the major Australian study that calls into question the effectiveness of carbon trading. Guests Dr Megan Evans – Senior Lecturer, Public Sector Management, UNSW Canberra Professor Dev Niyogi – Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin Professor Toni Erskine – International Politics, Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, Australian National University, ANU Further information Statement from the Clean Energy Regulator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 05 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The design of your city contributes to how much rain you get. Researchers have found a 'wet island effect' and it's likely to shape the future construction of our cities. Also, better understanding how Artificial Intelligence is used in conflict; and the major Australian study that calls into question the effectiveness of carbon trading. Guests Dr Megan Evans – Senior Lecturer, Public Sector Management, UNSW Canberra Professor Dev Niyogi – Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin Professor Toni Erskine – International Politics, Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, Australian National University, ANU Further information Statement from the Clean Energy Regulator The design of your city contributes to how much rain you get. Researchers have found a 'wet island effect' and it's likely to shape the future construction of our cities. Also, better understanding how Artificial Intelligence is used in conflict; and the major Australian study that calls into question the effectiveness of carbon trading. Guests Dr Megan Evans – Senior Lecturer, Public Sector Management, UNSW Canberra Professor Dev Niyogi – Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin Professor Toni Erskine – International Politics, Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, Australian National University, ANU Further information Statement from the Clean Energy Regulator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The design of your city contributes to how much rain you get. Researchers have found a 'wet island effect' and it's likely to shape the future construction of our cities. Also, better understanding how Artificial Intelligence is used in conflict; and the major Australian study that calls into question the effectiveness of carbon trading.

Guests

Dr Megan Evans – Senior Lecturer, Public Sector Management, UNSW Canberra

Professor Dev Niyogi – Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Jackson School of Geosciences, University of Texas at Austin

Professor Toni Erskine – International Politics, Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, Australian National University, ANU

Further information

Statement from the Clean Energy Regulator

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]]> 1808 Do we need new rules of war as conflict takes on a cyber dimension? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/new-rules-of-war-for-conflicts-with-cyber-dimension/104453280 Military spending around the world has reached a new peak, and it's still going up. All eyes are on Ukraine and the Middle East as new strategies and weapons are being put to the test. But are the traditional international rules of warfare too focussed on old technologies? Can they be adjusted to encompass cyber hacking and the use of online civilian proxies? Guests Professor Johanna Weaver – Director of the Tech Policy design Centre, Australian National University, ANU Professor Alexander Hill – Military Historian, University of Calgary Dr Nan Tian – Senior Researcher and Programme Director, SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, SIPRI Dr Jack Watling – Senior Research Fellow for Land Warfare, Royal United Services Institute (UK) Further information Global Roaming - THE NEW FRONTLINES 01: Welcome to the future of war Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 28 Nov 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Military spending around the world has reached a new peak, and it's still going up. All eyes are on Ukraine and the Middle East as new strategies and weapons are being put to the test. But are the traditional international rules of warfare too focussed on old technologies? Can they be adjusted to encompass cyber hacking and the use of online civilian proxies? Guests Professor Johanna Weaver – Director of the Tech Policy design Centre, Australian National University, ANU Professor Alexander Hill – Military Historian, University of Calgary Dr Nan Tian – Senior Researcher and Programme Director, SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, SIPRI Dr Jack Watling – Senior Research Fellow for Land Warfare, Royal United Services Institute (UK) Further information Global Roaming - THE NEW FRONTLINES 01: Welcome to the future of war Military spending around the world has reached a new peak, and it's still going up. All eyes are on Ukraine and the Middle East as new strategies and weapons are being put to the test. But are the traditional international rules of warfare too focussed on old technologies? Can they be adjusted to encompass cyber hacking and the use of online civilian proxies? Guests Professor Johanna Weaver – Director of the Tech Policy design Centre, Australian National University, ANU Professor Alexander Hill – Military Historian, University of Calgary Dr Nan Tian – Senior Researcher and Programme Director, SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, SIPRI Dr Jack Watling – Senior Research Fellow for Land Warfare, Royal United Services Institute (UK) Further information Global Roaming - THE NEW FRONTLINES 01: Welcome to the future of war Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Military spending around the world has reached a new peak, and it's still going up. All eyes are on Ukraine and the Middle East as new strategies and weapons are being put to the test. But are the traditional international rules of warfare too focussed on old technologies? Can they be adjusted to encompass cyber hacking and the use of online civilian proxies?

Guests

Professor Johanna Weaver – Director of the Tech Policy design Centre, Australian National University, ANU

Professor Alexander Hill – Military Historian, University of Calgary

Dr Nan Tian – Senior Researcher and Programme Director, SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, SIPRI

Dr Jack Watling – Senior Research Fellow for Land Warfare, Royal United Services Institute (UK)

Further information

Global Roaming - THE NEW FRONTLINES 01: Welcome to the future of war

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]]> 1808 Whatever happened to...? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/whatever-happened-to-/104453458 Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology.  Guests Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York  Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge  Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 21 Nov 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology.  Guests  Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York  Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge  Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass' Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology.  Guests Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York  Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge  Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sometimes, despite the hype, despite extensive funding, and despite clever and ingenious thinking, good ideas fail. Or at least don’t live up to their initial promise. There are lessons to be learnt and interesting anecdotes to be told. In this episode we look at four future-focused projects that have never really taken off: Google Glass, solar roads, space tourism and hyperloop technology. 

Guests

Dr Paul Sutter – Astrophysicist, SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, New York 

Sarah Marquart – freelance journalist, editor of From Quarks to Quasars

Andrew Hawkins – Transportation editor, The Verge 

Quinn Myers – Chicago-based journalist and author 'Google Glass'

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]]> 1808 A declaration on future generations https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-declaration-on-future-generations-/104453252 The UN General Assembly has passed a Declaration on Future Generations. It’s designed to ensure the generations of tomorrow aren’t disadvantaged by the decisions we make today. But is it more than feel good symbolism? Could it one day be as powerful as the Declaration on Human Rights? Also, how a focus on the here and now restricts visionary thinking; and we get the results from the latest 4-day work week trial, this time in Germany.   Guests Professor Thomas Hale – Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford University   Professor Brett Bowden – Professor of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, School of Humanities & Communication Arts, Western Sydney University  Professor Julia Backmann – University of Münster Further information  University of Münster - Germany’s four-day working week trial Blavatnik School of Government - Implementing a Declaration on Future Generations Brett Bowden - Now is Not the Time: Inside our Obsession with the Present Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 17 Nov 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The UN General Assembly has passed a Declaration on Future Generations. It’s designed to ensure the generations of tomorrow aren’t disadvantaged by the decisions we make today. But is it more than feel good symbolism? Could it one day be as powerful as the Declaration on Human Rights? Also, how a focus on the here and now restricts visionary thinking; and we get the results from the latest 4-day work week trial, this time in Germany.   Guests  Professor Thomas Hale – Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford University   Professor Brett Bowden – Professor of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, School of Humanities & Communication Arts, Western Sydney University  Professor Julia Backmann – University of Münster Further information   University of Münster - Germany’s four-day working week trial    Blavatnik School of Government - Implementing a Declaration on Future Generations Brett Bowden - Now is Not the Time: Inside our Obsession with the Present The UN General Assembly has passed a Declaration on Future Generations. It’s designed to ensure the generations of tomorrow aren’t disadvantaged by the decisions we make today. But is it more than feel good symbolism? Could it one day be as powerful as the Declaration on Human Rights? Also, how a focus on the here and now restricts visionary thinking; and we get the results from the latest 4-day work week trial, this time in Germany.   Guests Professor Thomas Hale – Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford University   Professor Brett Bowden – Professor of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, School of Humanities & Communication Arts, Western Sydney University  Professor Julia Backmann – University of Münster Further information  University of Münster - Germany’s four-day working week trial Blavatnik School of Government - Implementing a Declaration on Future Generations Brett Bowden - Now is Not the Time: Inside our Obsession with the Present Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The UN General Assembly has passed a Declaration on Future Generations. It’s designed to ensure the generations of tomorrow aren’t disadvantaged by the decisions we make today. But is it more than feel good symbolism? Could it one day be as powerful as the Declaration on Human Rights? Also, how a focus on the here and now restricts visionary thinking; and we get the results from the latest 4-day work week trial, this time in Germany.  

Guests

Professor Thomas Hale – Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford University  

Professor Brett Bowden – Professor of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, School of Humanities & Communication Arts, Western Sydney University 

Professor Julia Backmann – University of Münster

Further information 

University of Münster - Germany’s four-day working week trial

Blavatnik School of Government - Implementing a Declaration on Future Generations

Brett Bowden - Now is Not the Time: Inside our Obsession with the Present

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]]> 1808 Robots in the home – friend or foe? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/robots-in-the-home-friend-or-foe-/104453510 Robot vacuum cleaners are so innocuous, many people treat them almost like pets. But they're also potential portals into our private life. Story Lab journalist, Julian Fell, learns how to hack a robot vacuum cleaner and uncovers some disturbing facts about the security of connected household appliances. Also, acts of aggression and abuse committed in virtual reality environments. So-called "metacrimes" may be cyber in nature, but they can feel very real and have physical world consequences. Guests Dr Milind Tiwari – Postdoctoral research fellow, Charles Sturt University Dennis Giese – independent security researcher Sean Kelly – robot vacuum owner Daniel Swenson – US-based victim of robot vacuum hack Donald Dansereau – senior lecturer, Australian Centre for Robotics, University of Sydney Yong Zhi Lim – former cybersecurity tester, TUV SUD Further information ABC News - Hackers take control of robot vacuums in multiple cities, yell racial slurs ABC News - We hacked a robot vacuum — and could watch live through its camera Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 07 Nov 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Robot vacuum cleaners are so innocuous, many people treat them almost like pets. But they're also potential portals into our private life. Story Lab journalist, Julian Fell, learns how to hack a robot vacuum cleaner and uncovers some disturbing facts about the security of connected household appliances. Also, acts of aggression and abuse committed in virtual reality environments. So-called "metacrimes" may be cyber in nature, but they can feel very real and have physical world consequences. Guests Dr Milind Tiwari – Postdoctoral research fellow, Charles Sturt University Dennis Giese – independent security researcher Sean Kelly – robot vacuum owner Daniel Swenson – US-based victim of robot vacuum hack Donald Dansereau – senior lecturer, Australian Centre for Robotics, University of Sydney Yong Zhi Lim – former cybersecurity tester, TUV SUD Further information ABC News - Hackers take control of robot vacuums in multiple cities, yell racial slurs ABC News - We hacked a robot vacuum — and could watch live through its camera Robot vacuum cleaners are so innocuous, many people treat them almost like pets. But they're also potential portals into our private life. Story Lab journalist, Julian Fell, learns how to hack a robot vacuum cleaner and uncovers some disturbing facts about the security of connected household appliances. Also, acts of aggression and abuse committed in virtual reality environments. So-called "metacrimes" may be cyber in nature, but they can feel very real and have physical world consequences. Guests Dr Milind Tiwari – Postdoctoral research fellow, Charles Sturt University Dennis Giese – independent security researcher Sean Kelly – robot vacuum owner Daniel Swenson – US-based victim of robot vacuum hack Donald Dansereau – senior lecturer, Australian Centre for Robotics, University of Sydney Yong Zhi Lim – former cybersecurity tester, TUV SUD Further information ABC News - Hackers take control of robot vacuums in multiple cities, yell racial slurs ABC News - We hacked a robot vacuum — and could watch live through its camera Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Robot vacuum cleaners are so innocuous, many people treat them almost like pets. But they're also potential portals into our private life. Story Lab journalist, Julian Fell, learns how to hack a robot vacuum cleaner and uncovers some disturbing facts about the security of connected household appliances. Also, acts of aggression and abuse committed in virtual reality environments. So-called "metacrimes" may be cyber in nature, but they can feel very real and have physical world consequences.

Guests

Dr Milind Tiwari – Postdoctoral research fellow, Charles Sturt University

Dennis Giese – independent security researcher

Sean Kelly – robot vacuum owner

Daniel Swenson – US-based victim of robot vacuum hack

Donald Dansereau – senior lecturer, Australian Centre for Robotics, University of Sydney

Yong Zhi Lim – former cybersecurity tester, TUV SUD

Further information

ABC News - Hackers take control of robot vacuums in multiple cities, yell racial slurs

ABC News - We hacked a robot vacuum — and could watch live through its camera

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Melting brains and climate anxiety https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/melting-brains-heatwave-climate-change-anxiety/104437598 The heating climate is now recognised as a threat to our inner world – to brain health and rationality. Extreme temperatures not only impact our ability to think and our decision-making they also increase the presence of neurotoxins in the environment. And that can lead to disease and mental degeneration. We speak with the head of the newly formed International Neuro Climate Working Group. Climate anxiety is also caused by changes in our brains. So, is that a blessing or a curse? Guests Clayton Page Aldern – Neuroscientist, author and senior reporter, Grist. Dr Burcin Ikiz – Neuroscientist and Chair of the International Neuro Climate Working Group Professor Joshua Carlson – Director of the Cognitive X Affective Behaviour and Integrative Neuroscience Lab, Northern Michigan University Further information Clayton Aldern - The Weight of Nature.How a Changing Climate Changes Our Minds, Brains and Bodies The Melting brain Joshua Carlon - The Age of Climate Anxiety Climate change on the brain: Neural correlates of climate anxiety Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The heating climate is now recognised as a threat to our inner world – to brain health and rationality. Extreme temperatures not only impact our ability to think and our decision-making they also increase the presence of neurotoxins in the environment. And that can lead to disease and mental degeneration. We speak with the head of the newly formed International Neuro Climate Working Group. Climate anxiety is also caused by changes in our brains. So, is that a blessing or a curse? Guests Clayton Page Aldern – Neuroscientist, author and senior reporter, Grist. Dr Burcin Ikiz – Neuroscientist and Chair of the International Neuro Climate Working Group Professor Joshua Carlson – Director of the Cognitive X Affective Behaviour and Integrative Neuroscience Lab, Northern Michigan University Further information Clayton Aldern - The Weight of Nature.How a Changing Climate Changes Our Minds, Brains and Bodies The Melting brain Joshua Carlon - The Age of Climate Anxiety Climate change on the brain: Neural correlates of climate anxiety The heating climate is now recognised as a threat to our inner world – to brain health and rationality. Extreme temperatures not only impact our ability to think and our decision-making they also increase the presence of neurotoxins in the environment. And that can lead to disease and mental degeneration. We speak with the head of the newly formed International Neuro Climate Working Group. Climate anxiety is also caused by changes in our brains. So, is that a blessing or a curse? Guests Clayton Page Aldern – Neuroscientist, author and senior reporter, Grist. Dr Burcin Ikiz – Neuroscientist and Chair of the International Neuro Climate Working Group Professor Joshua Carlson – Director of the Cognitive X Affective Behaviour and Integrative Neuroscience Lab, Northern Michigan University Further information Clayton Aldern - The Weight of Nature.How a Changing Climate Changes Our Minds, Brains and Bodies The Melting brain Joshua Carlon - The Age of Climate Anxiety Climate change on the brain: Neural correlates of climate anxiety Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The heating climate is now recognised as a threat to our inner world – to brain health and rationality. Extreme temperatures not only impact our ability to think and our decision-making they also increase the presence of neurotoxins in the environment. And that can lead to disease and mental degeneration. We speak with the head of the newly formed International Neuro Climate Working Group. Climate anxiety is also caused by changes in our brains. So, is that a blessing or a curse?

Guests

Clayton Page Aldern – Neuroscientist, author and senior reporter, Grist.

Dr Burcin Ikiz – Neuroscientist and Chair of the International Neuro Climate Working Group

Professor Joshua Carlson – Director of the Cognitive X Affective Behaviour and Integrative Neuroscience Lab, Northern Michigan University

Further information

Clayton Aldern - The Weight of Nature.How a Changing Climate Changes Our Minds, Brains and Bodies

The Melting brain

Joshua Carlon - The Age of Climate Anxiety

Climate change on the brain: Neural correlates of climate anxiety

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]]> 1808 Frozen frogs, tissues and cells — the health and environmental benefits of keeping it chill https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/frozen-frogs-tissues-and-cells-cyropreservation/104409896 Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity. Guests Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada. Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia Further information Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 24 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity. Guests Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada. Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia Further information Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity. Guests Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada. Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia Further information Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Rana Sylvatica is an unassuming wood frog with an extraordinary gift. In the depths of winter, it can slow down its metabolism, flood its cells with ice and remain in a state of suspended animation for months. But it's what it might be able to teach us about preserving human organs for transplant that has scientists really excited. Also, the menagerie in an icy test tube — San Diego's Frozen Zoo and the fight to preserve biodiversity.

Guests

Dr Ken Storey — Professor of Biology and Biochemistry, Carleton University, Canada.

Dr Saffron Bryant – Senior lecturer, Department of Physics, RMIT University

Marlys Houck – Curator, Frozen Zoo, San Diego Wildlife Alliance

Dr Justine O’Brien – Manager, Conservation Science,Taronga Conservation Society Australia

Further information

Youtube video of a frozen frog thawing

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]]> 1808 Sex tech, AI and the centrality of consent https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/sex-tech-ai-and-the-centrality-of-consent/104381074 The demand for sex tech is booming. That is, toys and apps that can be used for pleasure, communication or to improve sexual health. Developers are using innovative ways to incorporate AI in a way that is respectful of both consent and the diversity of human desire. But it seems some male developers are intent on weaponising it against women. In this special episode of Future Tense, Stephen Stockwell, explores the power of the emerging technology, its potential benefits and harms, and the need to keep a clear focus on consent. Guests Madison Griffiths – Melbourne-based writer, artist and producer Bryony Cole – host of the Future of Sex Podcast Professor Alan McKee – pornography researcher and Head of the School of Art, Communication and English, University of Sydney Ashley Neale – founder of My Peach AI Further information Madison Griffiths - Orifice.ai, and the Arousal of Rejection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 17 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The demand for sex tech is booming. That is, toys and apps that can be used for pleasure, communication or to improve sexual health. Developers are using innovative ways to incorporate AI in a way that is respectful of both consent and the diversity of human desire. But it seems some male developers are intent on weaponising it against women. In this special episode of Future Tense, Stephen Stockwell, explores the power of the emerging technology, its potential benefits and harms, and the need to keep a clear focus on consent. Guests Madison Griffiths – Melbourne-based writer, artist and producer Bryony Cole – host of the Future of Sex Podcast Professor Alan McKee – pornography researcher and Head of the School of Art, Communication and English, University of Sydney Ashley Neale – founder of My Peach AI Further information Madison Griffiths - Orifice.ai, and the Arousal of Rejection The demand for sex tech is booming. That is, toys and apps that can be used for pleasure, communication or to improve sexual health. Developers are using innovative ways to incorporate AI in a way that is respectful of both consent and the diversity of human desire. But it seems some male developers are intent on weaponising it against women. In this special episode of Future Tense, Stephen Stockwell, explores the power of the emerging technology, its potential benefits and harms, and the need to keep a clear focus on consent. Guests Madison Griffiths – Melbourne-based writer, artist and producer Bryony Cole – host of the Future of Sex Podcast Professor Alan McKee – pornography researcher and Head of the School of Art, Communication and English, University of Sydney Ashley Neale – founder of My Peach AI Further information Madison Griffiths - Orifice.ai, and the Arousal of Rejection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The demand for sex tech is booming. That is, toys and apps that can be used for pleasure, communication or to improve sexual health.

Developers are using innovative ways to incorporate AI in a way that is respectful of both consent and the diversity of human desire.

But it seems some male developers are intent on weaponising it against women.

In this special episode of Future Tense, Stephen Stockwell, explores the power of the emerging technology, its potential benefits and harms, and the need to keep a clear focus on consent.

Guests

Madison Griffiths – Melbourne-based writer, artist and producer

Bryony Cole – host of the Future of Sex Podcast

Professor Alan McKee – pornography researcher and Head of the School of Art, Communication and English, University of Sydney

Ashley Neale – founder of My Peach AI

Further information

Madison Griffiths - Orifice.ai, and the Arousal of Rejection

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]]> 1808 Wolf Warrior diplomacy — Have we finally seen an end to undiplomatic diplomacy? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/wolf-warrior-diplomacy-natural-disaster-preparedness/104352876 It was known as Wolf Warrior diplomacy – a brand of Chinese foreign ministry posturing that was as aggressive as it was unexpected. But has Beijing now changed tack? And if so, why? Also, does the theory of Institutional Amnesia explain why our preparedness for natural disasters is often found wanting? Guests Assistant Professor Tyler Jost — Political Science, International and Public Affairs, Brown University (US) Dr Sarah Robertson – Research Fellow in sustainability, RMIT University Dr Paul Barnes — Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University Dr Alastair Stark – Associate Professor in Public Policy, School of Political Science and International Studies, Queensland University Further information Future Tense - The best response to disasters: centralised strength or community mitigation? Select Committee on Australia's Disaster Resilience Have China's Wolf Warriors Gone Extinct? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 10 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It was known as Wolf Warrior diplomacy – a brand of Chinese foreign ministry posturing that was as aggressive as it was unexpected. But has Beijing now changed tack? And if so, why? Also, does the theory of Institutional Amnesia explain why our preparedness for natural disasters is often found wanting? Guests Assistant Professor Tyler Jost — Political Science, International and Public Affairs, Brown University (US) Dr Sarah Robertson – Research Fellow in sustainability, RMIT University Dr Paul Barnes — Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University Dr Alastair Stark – Associate Professor in Public Policy, School of Political Science and International Studies, Queensland University Further information Future Tense - The best response to disasters: centralised strength or community mitigation? Select Committee on Australia's Disaster Resilience Have China's Wolf Warriors Gone Extinct? It was known as Wolf Warrior diplomacy – a brand of Chinese foreign ministry posturing that was as aggressive as it was unexpected. But has Beijing now changed tack? And if so, why? Also, does the theory of Institutional Amnesia explain why our preparedness for natural disasters is often found wanting? Guests Assistant Professor Tyler Jost — Political Science, International and Public Affairs, Brown University (US) Dr Sarah Robertson – Research Fellow in sustainability, RMIT University Dr Paul Barnes — Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University Dr Alastair Stark – Associate Professor in Public Policy, School of Political Science and International Studies, Queensland University Further information Future Tense - The best response to disasters: centralised strength or community mitigation? Select Committee on Australia's Disaster Resilience Have China's Wolf Warriors Gone Extinct? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It was known as Wolf Warrior diplomacy – a brand of Chinese foreign ministry posturing that was as aggressive as it was unexpected. But has Beijing now changed tack? And if so, why? Also, does the theory of Institutional Amnesia explain why our preparedness for natural disasters is often found wanting?

Guests

Assistant Professor Tyler Jost — Political Science, International and Public Affairs, Brown University (US)

Dr Sarah Robertson – Research Fellow in sustainability, RMIT University

Dr Paul Barnes — Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University

Dr Alastair Stark – Associate Professor in Public Policy, School of Political Science and International Studies, Queensland University

Further information

Future Tense - The best response to disasters: centralised strength or community mitigation?

Select Committee on Australia's Disaster Resilience

Have China's Wolf Warriors Gone Extinct?

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]]> 1808 Why China has tightened its belt and road https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/why-china-has-tightened-its-belt-and-road/104324664 Gone are the grandiose infrastructure projects, replaced by an emphasis on smaller development opportunities. China's Belt and Road initiative has entered its second decade — and it's changing. It now also includes a determined focus on green technology. But is the recalibration a sign of the project's overall success? Or a scaling back because of China's growing economic problems? And what has Beijing learnt about debt-levels and governance? Guests Professor Christoph Nedopil – Director of Asia Institute, Griffith University Associate Professor Chong Ja Ian – Political Science, National University of Singapore Associate Professor Jessica Liao – Political Science, North Carolina State University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 03 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Gone are the grandiose infrastructure projects, replaced by an emphasis on smaller development opportunities. China's Belt and Road initiative has entered its second decade — and it's changing. It now also includes a determined focus on green technology. But is the recalibration a sign of the project's overall success? Or a scaling back because of China's growing economic problems? And what has Beijing learnt about debt-levels and governance? Guests Professor Christoph Nedopil – Director of Asia Institute, Griffith University Associate Professor Chong Ja Ian – Political Science, National University of Singapore Associate Professor Jessica Liao – Political Science, North Carolina State University Gone are the grandiose infrastructure projects, replaced by an emphasis on smaller development opportunities. China's Belt and Road initiative has entered its second decade — and it's changing. It now also includes a determined focus on green technology. But is the recalibration a sign of the project's overall success? Or a scaling back because of China's growing economic problems? And what has Beijing learnt about debt-levels and governance? Guests Professor Christoph Nedopil – Director of Asia Institute, Griffith University Associate Professor Chong Ja Ian – Political Science, National University of Singapore Associate Professor Jessica Liao – Political Science, North Carolina State University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Gone are the grandiose infrastructure projects, replaced by an emphasis on smaller development opportunities. China's Belt and Road initiative has entered its second decade — and it's changing. It now also includes a determined focus on green technology. But is the recalibration a sign of the project's overall success? Or a scaling back because of China's growing economic problems? And what has Beijing learnt about debt-levels and governance?

Guests

Professor Christoph Nedopil – Director of Asia Institute, Griffith University

Associate Professor Chong Ja Ian – Political Science, National University of Singapore

Associate Professor Jessica Liao – Political Science, North Carolina State University

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]]> 1808 The year of the poll — democracy's mega test https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-year-of-the-poll-democracy-s-mega-test/104295806 2024 has been an eventful year for democracies around the world. More than 80 countries, containing over half the world's population, are holding elections this year. It's democracy's mega test. The implications for the future of democracy and world order are profound. Guests Professor Nick Bisley – Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University Dr Gorana Grjic – Senior Researcher, Swiss and Euro-Atlantic Security Team, ETH Zürich's Center for Security Studies (CSS) Dr Priya Chako – Associate Professor, International Politics, University of Adelaide Dr Raul Sanchez-Urribarri – Senior Lecturer in Crime, Justice and Legal Studies, Department of Social Inquiry, La Trobe University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 26 Sep 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia 2024 has been an eventful year for democracies around the world. More than 80 countries, containing over half the world's population, are holding elections this year. It's democracy's mega test. The implications for the future of democracy and world order are profound. Guests Professor Nick Bisley – Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University Dr Gorana Grjic – Senior Researcher, Swiss and Euro-Atlantic Security Team, ETH Zürich's Center for Security Studies (CSS) Dr Priya Chako – Associate Professor, International Politics, University of Adelaide Dr Raul Sanchez-Urribarri – Senior Lecturer in Crime, Justice and Legal Studies, Department of Social Inquiry, La Trobe University 2024 has been an eventful year for democracies around the world. More than 80 countries, containing over half the world's population, are holding elections this year. It's democracy's mega test. The implications for the future of democracy and world order are profound. Guests Professor Nick Bisley – Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University Dr Gorana Grjic – Senior Researcher, Swiss and Euro-Atlantic Security Team, ETH Zürich's Center for Security Studies (CSS) Dr Priya Chako – Associate Professor, International Politics, University of Adelaide Dr Raul Sanchez-Urribarri – Senior Lecturer in Crime, Justice and Legal Studies, Department of Social Inquiry, La Trobe University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices 2024 has been an eventful year for democracies around the world. More than 80 countries, containing over half the world's population, are holding elections this year. It's democracy's mega test. The implications for the future of democracy and world order are profound.

Guests

Professor Nick Bisley – Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University

Dr Gorana Grjic – Senior Researcher, Swiss and Euro-Atlantic Security Team, ETH Zürich's Center for Security Studies (CSS)

Dr Priya Chako – Associate Professor, International Politics, University of Adelaide

Dr Raul Sanchez-Urribarri – Senior Lecturer in Crime, Justice and Legal Studies, Department of Social Inquiry, La Trobe University

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Saying goodbye to ageism — the last “acceptable” prejudice https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/saying-goodbye-to-ageism-the-last-acceptable-prejudice-/104266820 Could the realities of an aging population and a declining birth rate soon make our obsession with youth a thing of the past? It's not just an equity issue it also has implications for politics and economics, because the citizens and consumers of the future will inevitably be older. So, how do we reframe our perceptions of aging to make the most of a very different future workplace? Guests Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communications, Bond University Assistant Professor Nicole Dalmer — Associate Director of the Gilbrea Centre for Studies in Aging, McMaster University (Canada) Avivah Wittenberg-Cox — CEO of the consultancy 20-first — specialising in gender and generational balance Dr Markus Wettstein – Research Assistant, Department of Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 Sep 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Could the realities of an aging population and a declining birth rate soon make our obsession with youth a thing of the past? It's not just an equity issue it also has implications for politics and economics, because the citizens and consumers of the future will inevitably be older. So, how do we reframe our perceptions of aging to make the most of a very different future workplace? Guests Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communications, Bond University Assistant Professor Nicole Dalmer — Associate Director of the Gilbrea Centre for Studies in Aging, McMaster University (Canada) Avivah Wittenberg-Cox — CEO of the consultancy 20-first — specialising in gender and generational balance Dr Markus Wettstein – Research Assistant, Department of Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin Could the realities of an aging population and a declining birth rate soon make our obsession with youth a thing of the past? It's not just an equity issue it also has implications for politics and economics, because the citizens and consumers of the future will inevitably be older. So, how do we reframe our perceptions of aging to make the most of a very different future workplace? Guests Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communications, Bond University Assistant Professor Nicole Dalmer — Associate Director of the Gilbrea Centre for Studies in Aging, McMaster University (Canada) Avivah Wittenberg-Cox — CEO of the consultancy 20-first — specialising in gender and generational balance Dr Markus Wettstein – Research Assistant, Department of Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Could the realities of an aging population and a declining birth rate soon make our obsession with youth a thing of the past? It's not just an equity issue it also has implications for politics and economics, because the citizens and consumers of the future will inevitably be older. So, how do we reframe our perceptions of aging to make the most of a very different future workplace?

Guests

Assistant Professor Sven Brodmerkel – Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communications, Bond University

Assistant Professor Nicole Dalmer — Associate Director of the Gilbrea Centre for Studies in Aging, McMaster University (Canada)

Avivah Wittenberg-Cox — CEO of the consultancy 20-first — specialising in gender and generational balance

Dr Markus Wettstein – Research Assistant, Department of Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 AI snake oil — its limits, risks, and its thirst for resources https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/artificial-intelligence-its-limits-risks-nd-thirst-for-resources/104238774 Chat GPT pioneer, Sam Altman, reckons democratic countries will need to re-write their social contracts once AI reaches its full potential, such is its power to shape the future. But to quote a famous political aphorism: "he would say that, wouldn't he?" Princeton computer scientist, Arvind Narayanan, joins us to talk about the hype, the reality and the true limits of Artificial Intelligence. His new book is called "AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference". Also, AI's dirty secret – it's a huge consumer of both power and water. And the more popular it becomes, the thirstier it gets. Guests Professor Arvind Narayanan – Professor of Computer Science and Director of the Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton University Gordon Nobel – Research Director, Business, Economy and Governance, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Associate Professor Shaolei Ren — Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Riverside Further information Narayanan, Arvind — AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference Making AI Less "Thirsty": Uncovering and Addressing the Secret Water Footprint of AI Models IT and Data Centre Sustainability in Australia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Sep 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Chat GPT pioneer, Sam Altman, reckons democratic countries will need to re-write their social contracts once AI reaches its full potential, such is its power to shape the future. But to quote a famous political aphorism: "he would say that, wouldn't he?" Princeton computer scientist, Arvind Narayanan, joins us to talk about the hype, the reality and the true limits of Artificial Intelligence. His new book is called "AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference". Also, AI's dirty secret – it's a huge consumer of both power and water. And the more popular it becomes, the thirstier it gets. Guests Professor Arvind Narayanan – Professor of Computer Science and Director of the Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton University Gordon Nobel – Research Director, Business, Economy and Governance, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Associate Professor Shaolei Ren — Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Riverside Further information Narayanan, Arvind — AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference Making AI Less "Thirsty": Uncovering and Addressing the Secret Water Footprint of AI Models IT and Data Centre Sustainability in Australia Chat GPT pioneer, Sam Altman, reckons democratic countries will need to re-write their social contracts once AI reaches its full potential, such is its power to shape the future. But to quote a famous political aphorism: "he would say that, wouldn't he?" Princeton computer scientist, Arvind Narayanan, joins us to talk about the hype, the reality and the true limits of Artificial Intelligence. His new book is called "AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference". Also, AI's dirty secret – it's a huge consumer of both power and water. And the more popular it becomes, the thirstier it gets. Guests Professor Arvind Narayanan – Professor of Computer Science and Director of the Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton University Gordon Nobel – Research Director, Business, Economy and Governance, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Associate Professor Shaolei Ren — Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Riverside Further information Narayanan, Arvind — AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference Making AI Less "Thirsty": Uncovering and Addressing the Secret Water Footprint of AI Models IT and Data Centre Sustainability in Australia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Chat GPT pioneer, Sam Altman, reckons democratic countries will need to re-write their social contracts once AI reaches its full potential, such is its power to shape the future. But to quote a famous political aphorism: "he would say that, wouldn't he?" Princeton computer scientist, Arvind Narayanan, joins us to talk about the hype, the reality and the true limits of Artificial Intelligence. His new book is called "AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference". Also, AI's dirty secret – it's a huge consumer of both power and water. And the more popular it becomes, the thirstier it gets.

Guests

Professor Arvind Narayanan – Professor of Computer Science and Director of the Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton University

Gordon Nobel – Research Director, Business, Economy and Governance, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney

Associate Professor Shaolei Ren — Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Riverside

Further information

Narayanan, Arvind — AI Snake Oil: What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What it Can't, and How to Tell the Difference

Making AI Less "Thirsty": Uncovering and Addressing the Secret Water Footprint of AI Models

IT and Data Centre Sustainability in Australia

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]]> 1808 The "disruption nexus" and the power of a good crisis https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/disruption-nexus-roman-krznaric-crisis-bushfires-ai-satellites/104210460 Every crisis, they say, presents an opportunity. But history tells us differently. Social philosopher, Roman Krznaric, spells out the vital elements needed to initiate rapid change – and why a better understanding of the way we respond to crises could help in the fight against climate change. Guests Dr Roman Krznaric – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Oxford University Dr Stefan Peters – Senior Lecturer in Geospatial Science, University of South Australia Further information Krznaric, Roman – History for Tomorrow: inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 05 Sep 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Every crisis, they say, presents an opportunity. But history tells us differently. Social philosopher, Roman Krznaric, spells out the vital elements needed to initiate rapid change – and why a better understanding of the way we respond to crises could help in the fight against climate change. Guests Dr Roman Krznaric – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Oxford University Dr Stefan Peters – Senior Lecturer in Geospatial Science, University of South Australia Further information Krznaric, Roman – History for Tomorrow: inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity Every crisis, they say, presents an opportunity. But history tells us differently. Social philosopher, Roman Krznaric, spells out the vital elements needed to initiate rapid change – and why a better understanding of the way we respond to crises could help in the fight against climate change. Guests Dr Roman Krznaric – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Oxford University Dr Stefan Peters – Senior Lecturer in Geospatial Science, University of South Australia Further information Krznaric, Roman – History for Tomorrow: inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Every crisis, they say, presents an opportunity. But history tells us differently. Social philosopher, Roman Krznaric, spells out the vital elements needed to initiate rapid change – and why a better understanding of the way we respond to crises could help in the fight against climate change.

Guests

Dr Roman Krznaric – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Oxford University

Dr Stefan Peters – Senior Lecturer in Geospatial Science, University of South Australia

Further information

Krznaric, Roman – History for Tomorrow: inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Rediscovering the essence of Liberalism could help in the battle against authoritarianism https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/rediscovering-liberalism/104180754 Do we underestimate the value of Liberalism? Political philosopher, Alexandre Lefebvre, says liberalism underpins the modern Western world, even if we sometimes struggle to define it. And even when its brand is coopted by party-politics. Rediscovering its pure form, he argues, could be the key to a more tolerant and prosperous future. Also, is the European Union losing its taste for regulation, particularly where big tech is involved?  Guests Dr Alexandre Lefebvre – Professor of Politics and Philosophy, University of Sydney Laura Petrone – Analyst, Thematic Intelligence Team, Global Data Dr Anabela Malpique – Senior lecturer, Department of Education, Edith Cowen University  Further information  Alexandre Lefebvre – Liberalism as a Way of Life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 29 Aug 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Do we underestimate the value of Liberalism? Political philosopher, Alexandre Lefebvre, says liberalism underpins the modern Western world, even if we sometimes struggle to define it. And even when its brand is coopted by party-politics. Rediscovering its pure form, he argues, could be the key to a more tolerant and prosperous future. Also, is the European Union losing its taste for regulation, particularly where big tech is involved?  Guests Dr Alexandre Lefebvre – Professor of Politics and Philosophy, University of Sydney Laura Petrone – Analyst, Thematic Intelligence Team, Global Data Dr Anabela Malpique – Senior lecturer, Department of Education, Edith Cowen University  Further information  Alexandre Lefebvre – Liberalism as a Way of Life Do we underestimate the value of Liberalism? Political philosopher, Alexandre Lefebvre, says liberalism underpins the modern Western world, even if we sometimes struggle to define it. And even when its brand is coopted by party-politics. Rediscovering its pure form, he argues, could be the key to a more tolerant and prosperous future. Also, is the European Union losing its taste for regulation, particularly where big tech is involved?  Guests Dr Alexandre Lefebvre – Professor of Politics and Philosophy, University of Sydney Laura Petrone – Analyst, Thematic Intelligence Team, Global Data Dr Anabela Malpique – Senior lecturer, Department of Education, Edith Cowen University  Further information  Alexandre Lefebvre – Liberalism as a Way of Life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Do we underestimate the value of Liberalism? Political philosopher, Alexandre Lefebvre, says liberalism underpins the modern Western world, even if we sometimes struggle to define it. And even when its brand is coopted by party-politics. Rediscovering its pure form, he argues, could be the key to a more tolerant and prosperous future. Also, is the European Union losing its taste for regulation, particularly where big tech is involved? 

Guests

Dr Alexandre Lefebvre – Professor of Politics and Philosophy, University of Sydney

Laura Petrone – Analyst, Thematic Intelligence Team, Global Data

Dr Anabela Malpique – Senior lecturer, Department of Education, Edith Cowen University 

Further information

 Alexandre Lefebvre – Liberalism as a Way of Life

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Why in the 21st century are we still talking about the political Left and Right? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/21-century-political-left-right-ideology/104151720 In a world where Donald Trump embraces anti free-trade protectionism and "leftish" governments are going heavy on law and order, do the old political labels of Left and Right really make sense? Is it time for a new way of thinking and talking about political difference? And how do ordinary voters actually choose their political positions? Are their decisions based on ideology or simple tribalism? Guests Dr Gregory Millard – Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Kwantlen University, Canada Dr Simon Otjes – Assistant Professor, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University, The Netherlands Dr Verlan Lewis – Stirling Professor of Constitutional Studies, Utah Valley University. Visiting scholar, Center for American Political Studies, Harvard University Further information Lewis, Verlan – The Myth of Left and Right Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 22 Aug 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia In a world where Donald Trump embraces anti free-trade protectionism and "leftish" governments are going heavy on law and order, do the old political labels of Left and Right really make sense? Is it time for a new way of thinking and talking about political difference? And how do ordinary voters actually choose their political positions? Are their decisions based on ideology or simple tribalism? Guests Dr Gregory Millard – Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Kwantlen University, Canada Dr Simon Otjes – Assistant Professor, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University, The Netherlands Dr Verlan Lewis – Stirling Professor of Constitutional Studies, Utah Valley University. Visiting scholar, Center for American Political Studies, Harvard University Further information Lewis, Verlan – The Myth of Left and Right In a world where Donald Trump embraces anti free-trade protectionism and "leftish" governments are going heavy on law and order, do the old political labels of Left and Right really make sense? Is it time for a new way of thinking and talking about political difference? And how do ordinary voters actually choose their political positions? Are their decisions based on ideology or simple tribalism? Guests Dr Gregory Millard – Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Kwantlen University, Canada Dr Simon Otjes – Assistant Professor, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University, The Netherlands Dr Verlan Lewis – Stirling Professor of Constitutional Studies, Utah Valley University. Visiting scholar, Center for American Political Studies, Harvard University Further information Lewis, Verlan – The Myth of Left and Right Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In a world where Donald Trump embraces anti free-trade protectionism and "leftish" governments are going heavy on law and order, do the old political labels of Left and Right really make sense? Is it time for a new way of thinking and talking about political difference? And how do ordinary voters actually choose their political positions? Are their decisions based on ideology or simple tribalism?

Guests

Dr Gregory Millard – Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Kwantlen University, Canada

Dr Simon Otjes – Assistant Professor, Institute of Political Science, Leiden University, The Netherlands

Dr Verlan Lewis – Stirling Professor of Constitutional Studies, Utah Valley University. Visiting scholar, Center for American Political Studies, Harvard University

Further information

Lewis, Verlan – The Myth of Left and Right

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 "Anthropocene" — why the fight about a name has real world consequences https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/anthropocene-climate-change-environment/104121880 The Anthropocene – the idea that we now live in a geological age shaped by human activity — is a controversial topic. It irritates those who reject the whole notion of adverse climate change — and it's also now causing a fight among geologists themselves. So, what's behind the scientific contention? Also, why some argue that textiles are the new "hidden" plastic plague. Guests Dr Erle Ellis – Professor of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Maryland Dr Francine McCarthy – Professor of Earth Studies, Brock University, Canada Dr Rebecca Van Amber – Senior Lecturer in Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 15 Aug 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The Anthropocene – the idea that we now live in a geological age shaped by human activity — is a controversial topic. It irritates those who reject the whole notion of adverse climate change — and it's also now causing a fight among geologists themselves. So, what's behind the scientific contention? Also, why some argue that textiles are the new "hidden" plastic plague. Guests Dr Erle Ellis – Professor of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Maryland Dr Francine McCarthy – Professor of Earth Studies, Brock University, Canada Dr Rebecca Van Amber – Senior Lecturer in Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University The Anthropocene – the idea that we now live in a geological age shaped by human activity — is a controversial topic. It irritates those who reject the whole notion of adverse climate change — and it's also now causing a fight among geologists themselves. So, what's behind the scientific contention? Also, why some argue that textiles are the new "hidden" plastic plague. Guests Dr Erle Ellis – Professor of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Maryland Dr Francine McCarthy – Professor of Earth Studies, Brock University, Canada Dr Rebecca Van Amber – Senior Lecturer in Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The Anthropocene – the idea that we now live in a geological age shaped by human activity — is a controversial topic. It irritates those who reject the whole notion of adverse climate change — and it's also now causing a fight among geologists themselves. So, what's behind the scientific contention?

Also, why some argue that textiles are the new "hidden" plastic plague.

Guests

Dr Erle Ellis – Professor of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Maryland

Dr Francine McCarthy – Professor of Earth Studies, Brock University, Canada

Dr Rebecca Van Amber – Senior Lecturer in Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University

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]]> 1808 We're losing the dark sky and you can already feel the consequences https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/dark-sky-night-darkness-light-pollution/104095394 The night sky is getting brighter by about ten per cent each year — that's the scientific estimate. While new forms of lighting technology can reduce the amount of light pollution, the sheer impact of a global boom in artificial lighting is just too much. It threatens the health of both humans and other animals. Historically, darkness has been seen in a negative social and cultural context, so can we change our attitudes and learn to embrace the dark sky? In other words, see the light about the beauty of darkness! Guests Ruskin Hartley – Executive Director, Dark Sky International Dr Paul Bogard – Associate Professor Hamline University (US) and author of The End of Night: Searching for Natural Darkness in an Age of Artificial Light Dr Tim Edensor – Cultural Geographer, Manchester Metropolitan University  Further information DarkSky International: Five principles for responsible outdoor lighting Nick Dunn/Tim Edensor - Dark Skies: Places, Practises, Communities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 08 Aug 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The night sky is getting brighter by about ten per cent each year — that's the scientific estimate. While new forms of lighting technology can reduce the amount of light pollution, the sheer impact of a global boom in artificial lighting is just too much. It threatens the health of both humans and other animals. Historically, darkness has been seen in a negative social and cultural context, so can we change our attitudes and learn to embrace the dark sky? In other words, see the light about the beauty of darkness! Guests Ruskin Hartley – Executive Director, Dark Sky International Dr Paul Bogard – Associate Professor Hamline University (US) and author of The End of Night: Searching for Natural Darkness in an Age of Artificial Light Dr Tim Edensor – Cultural Geographer, Manchester Metropolitan University  Further information DarkSky International: Five principles for responsible outdoor lighting Nick Dunn/Tim Edensor - Dark Skies: Places, Practises, Communities The night sky is getting brighter by about ten per cent each year — that's the scientific estimate. While new forms of lighting technology can reduce the amount of light pollution, the sheer impact of a global boom in artificial lighting is just too much. It threatens the health of both humans and other animals. Historically, darkness has been seen in a negative social and cultural context, so can we change our attitudes and learn to embrace the dark sky? In other words, see the light about the beauty of darkness! Guests Ruskin Hartley – Executive Director, Dark Sky International Dr Paul Bogard – Associate Professor Hamline University (US) and author of The End of Night: Searching for Natural Darkness in an Age of Artificial Light Dr Tim Edensor – Cultural Geographer, Manchester Metropolitan University  Further information DarkSky International: Five principles for responsible outdoor lighting Nick Dunn/Tim Edensor - Dark Skies: Places, Practises, Communities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The night sky is getting brighter by about ten per cent each year — that's the scientific estimate. While new forms of lighting technology can reduce the amount of light pollution, the sheer impact of a global boom in artificial lighting is just too much. It threatens the health of both humans and other animals. Historically, darkness has been seen in a negative social and cultural context, so can we change our attitudes and learn to embrace the dark sky? In other words, see the light about the beauty of darkness!

Guests

Ruskin Hartley – Executive Director, Dark Sky International

Dr Paul Bogard – Associate Professor Hamline University (US) and author of The End of Night: Searching for Natural Darkness in an Age of Artificial Light

Dr Tim Edensor – Cultural Geographer, Manchester Metropolitan University 

Further information

DarkSky International: Five principles for responsible outdoor lighting

Nick Dunn/Tim Edensor - Dark Skies: Places, Practises, Communities

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]]> 1808 Can we afford to continue to keep pets — environmentally and financially? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/pets-sustainability-environment-financially/104068096 If we're genuinely concerned about the impact livestock can have on our environment, why aren't we equally worried about pets? The pet industry is booming and despite the many positive psychological and emotional benefits of pet ownership, concerns about global pet numbers and environmental sustainability are mounting. So, do we need to rethink how we live with domesticated animals? And how can we strike a balance between our seemingly insatiable desire for fur-babies and their subsequent impact on the natural world and our hip pocket? Guests Dr Jen Gale – Veterinarian and Director of Vet Sustain (UK) Dr Emily Hemendinger – Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Dr Andrea Laurent Simpson – Research Assistant Professor, Southern Methodist University; Author of Just Like Family: How Companion Animals Joined the Household Dr Andrew Rowan – founder of the Tufts Centre for Animals and Public Policy; President, Wellbeing International Dr Belinda Jane Dunstan – Principal Lead, Creative Robotics Lab, University of New South Wales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 01 Aug 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia If we're genuinely concerned about the impact livestock can have on our environment, why aren't we equally worried about pets? The pet industry is booming and despite the many positive psychological and emotional benefits of pet ownership, concerns about global pet numbers and environmental sustainability are mounting. So, do we need to rethink how we live with domesticated animals? And how can we strike a balance between our seemingly insatiable desire for fur-babies and their subsequent impact on the natural world and our hip pocket? Guests Dr Jen Gale – Veterinarian and Director of Vet Sustain (UK) Dr Emily Hemendinger – Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Dr Andrea Laurent Simpson – Research Assistant Professor, Southern Methodist University; Author of Just Like Family: How Companion Animals Joined the Household Dr Andrew Rowan – founder of the Tufts Centre for Animals and Public Policy; President, Wellbeing International Dr Belinda Jane Dunstan – Principal Lead, Creative Robotics Lab, University of New South Wales If we're genuinely concerned about the impact livestock can have on our environment, why aren't we equally worried about pets? The pet industry is booming and despite the many positive psychological and emotional benefits of pet ownership, concerns about global pet numbers and environmental sustainability are mounting. So, do we need to rethink how we live with domesticated animals? And how can we strike a balance between our seemingly insatiable desire for fur-babies and their subsequent impact on the natural world and our hip pocket? Guests Dr Jen Gale – Veterinarian and Director of Vet Sustain (UK) Dr Emily Hemendinger – Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Dr Andrea Laurent Simpson – Research Assistant Professor, Southern Methodist University; Author of Just Like Family: How Companion Animals Joined the Household Dr Andrew Rowan – founder of the Tufts Centre for Animals and Public Policy; President, Wellbeing International Dr Belinda Jane Dunstan – Principal Lead, Creative Robotics Lab, University of New South Wales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If we're genuinely concerned about the impact livestock can have on our environment, why aren't we equally worried about pets? The pet industry is booming and despite the many positive psychological and emotional benefits of pet ownership, concerns about global pet numbers and environmental sustainability are mounting. So, do we need to rethink how we live with domesticated animals? And how can we strike a balance between our seemingly insatiable desire for fur-babies and their subsequent impact on the natural world and our hip pocket?

Guests

Dr Jen Gale – Veterinarian and Director of Vet Sustain (UK)

Dr Emily Hemendinger – Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Colorado

Dr Andrea Laurent Simpson – Research Assistant Professor, Southern Methodist University; Author of Just Like Family: How Companion Animals Joined the Household

Dr Andrew Rowan – founder of the Tufts Centre for Animals and Public Policy; President, Wellbeing International

Dr Belinda Jane Dunstan – Principal Lead, Creative Robotics Lab, University of New South Wales

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]]> 1808 Technology is revolutionising sport performance https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/technology-future-of-sport-cheating-advancement-performance-peak/104040538 The rate of technological advancement in sport is unprecedented. From data analytics to robotic umpiring to smart equipment, technologies are reshaping what it means to achieve and compete. Even the International Olympic Committee has now developed an AI strategy.  It's also big business with the sport industry conservatively estimated at around one per cent of global GDP. So, when does ingenious innovation become cheating? And if technology pushes us past the point of physical capacity, why bother with human competitors at all? Guests Professor Sascha Schmidt – Director of the Centre for Sports and Management, WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management Louis Weston – Barrister and sports lawyer, Outer Temple Chambers, London Dr John Holash – Assistant Professor, Faculty of Kinesiology, The University of Calgary Robert Marchiori – CEO Cognizant Australia Further information 21st Century Sports. How Technologies Will Change Sports in the Digital Age International Olympic Committee - Olympic AI Agenda Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The rate of technological advancement in sport is unprecedented. From data analytics to robotic umpiring to smart equipment, technologies are reshaping what it means to achieve and compete. Even the International Olympic Committee has now developed an AI strategy.  It's also big business with the sport industry conservatively estimated at around one per cent of global GDP. So, when does ingenious innovation become cheating? And if technology pushes us past the point of physical capacity, why bother with human competitors at all? Guests Professor Sascha Schmidt – Director of the Centre for Sports and Management, WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management Louis Weston – Barrister and sports lawyer, Outer Temple Chambers, London Dr John Holash – Assistant Professor, Faculty of Kinesiology, The University of Calgary Robert Marchiori – CEO Cognizant Australia Further information 21st Century Sports. How Technologies Will Change Sports in the Digital Age International Olympic Committee - Olympic AI Agenda The rate of technological advancement in sport is unprecedented. From data analytics to robotic umpiring to smart equipment, technologies are reshaping what it means to achieve and compete. Even the International Olympic Committee has now developed an AI strategy.  It's also big business with the sport industry conservatively estimated at around one per cent of global GDP. So, when does ingenious innovation become cheating? And if technology pushes us past the point of physical capacity, why bother with human competitors at all? Guests Professor Sascha Schmidt – Director of the Centre for Sports and Management, WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management Louis Weston – Barrister and sports lawyer, Outer Temple Chambers, London Dr John Holash – Assistant Professor, Faculty of Kinesiology, The University of Calgary Robert Marchiori – CEO Cognizant Australia Further information 21st Century Sports. How Technologies Will Change Sports in the Digital Age International Olympic Committee - Olympic AI Agenda Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The rate of technological advancement in sport is unprecedented. From data analytics to robotic umpiring to smart equipment, technologies are reshaping what it means to achieve and compete. Even the International Olympic Committee has now developed an AI strategy. 

It's also big business with the sport industry conservatively estimated at around one per cent of global GDP.

So, when does ingenious innovation become cheating? And if technology pushes us past the point of physical capacity, why bother with human competitors at all?

Guests

Professor Sascha Schmidt – Director of the Centre for Sports and Management, WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management

Louis Weston – Barrister and sports lawyer, Outer Temple Chambers, London

Dr John Holash – Assistant Professor, Faculty of Kinesiology, The University of Calgary

Robert Marchiori – CEO Cognizant Australia

Further information

21st Century Sports. How Technologies Will Change Sports in the Digital Age

International Olympic Committee - Olympic AI Agenda

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]]> 1808 Are the big US media platforms swallowing our culture? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/are-the-big-us-media-platforms-swallowing-our-culture-/104011868 Global media players now dominate the entertainment business and hold the whip-hand when it comes to accessing local news content. In this program we get an update on Meta's ban on Canadian news content, specifically how it's impacted production of serious news and what's been the public reaction. We also get a reality check on just how interested the giant US steaming services are in Australian content. Guests Aengus Bridgman – Director, Media Ecosystem Observatory (Canada) Matthew Deaner – CEO, Screen Producers Association Professor Anna Potter – Digital Media and Cultural Studies, Queensland University of Technology Further information When journalism is turned off: Preliminary findings on the effects of Meta’s news ban in Canada Australian Television Drama’s Uncertain Future: How Cultural Policy is Failing Australians Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 18 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Global media players now dominate the entertainment business and hold the whip-hand when it comes to accessing local news content. In this program we get an update on Meta's ban on Canadian news content, specifically how it's impacted production of serious news and what's been the public reaction. We also get a reality check on just how interested the giant US steaming services are in Australian content. Guests Aengus Bridgman – Director, Media Ecosystem Observatory (Canada) Matthew Deaner – CEO, Screen Producers Association Professor Anna Potter – Digital Media and Cultural Studies, Queensland University of Technology Further information When journalism is turned off: Preliminary findings on the effects of Meta’s news ban in Canada Australian Television Drama’s Uncertain Future: How Cultural Policy is Failing Australians Global media players now dominate the entertainment business and hold the whip-hand when it comes to accessing local news content. In this program we get an update on Meta's ban on Canadian news content, specifically how it's impacted production of serious news and what's been the public reaction. We also get a reality check on just how interested the giant US steaming services are in Australian content. Guests Aengus Bridgman – Director, Media Ecosystem Observatory (Canada) Matthew Deaner – CEO, Screen Producers Association Professor Anna Potter – Digital Media and Cultural Studies, Queensland University of Technology Further information When journalism is turned off: Preliminary findings on the effects of Meta’s news ban in Canada Australian Television Drama’s Uncertain Future: How Cultural Policy is Failing Australians Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Global media players now dominate the entertainment business and hold the whip-hand when it comes to accessing local news content. In this program we get an update on Meta's ban on Canadian news content, specifically how it's impacted production of serious news and what's been the public reaction. We also get a reality check on just how interested the giant US steaming services are in Australian content.

Guests

Aengus Bridgman – Director, Media Ecosystem Observatory (Canada)

Matthew Deaner – CEO, Screen Producers Association

Professor Anna Potter – Digital Media and Cultural Studies, Queensland University of Technology

Further information

When journalism is turned off: Preliminary findings on the effects of Meta’s news ban in Canada

Australian Television Drama’s Uncertain Future: How Cultural Policy is Failing Australians

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]]> 1808 A new push in the search for alien life https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-new-push-in-the-search-for-alien-life/103983758 NASA's new telescope will revolutionise the search for non-Earth based life. It's to be called the Habitable Worlds Observatory and will be powerful enough to peer into the atmosphere of planets outside of our solar system. But if, or when, we do find evidence of a life form beyond our solar system what do we do next? And who should decide whether or even how we make contact? A new research hub at the University of Andrews is among those drawing up a plan. Guests Dr Megan Ansdell – Program Manager, Habitable Worlds Observatory, NASA Professor Adam Frank – Astrobiologist and astrophysicist, University of Rochester, New York Dr John Elliott – Computational linguist and Coordinator of the SETI Post Detection Hub, University of St Andrews Professor Ian Roberts — Theoretical and Applied Linguistics, University of Cambridge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia NASA's new telescope will revolutionise the search for non-Earth based life. It's to be called the Habitable Worlds Observatory and will be powerful enough to peer into the atmosphere of planets outside of our solar system. But if, or when, we do find evidence of a life form beyond our solar system what do we do next? And who should decide whether or even how we make contact? A new research hub at the University of Andrews is among those drawing up a plan. Guests Dr Megan Ansdell – Program Manager, Habitable Worlds Observatory, NASA Professor Adam Frank – Astrobiologist and astrophysicist, University of Rochester, New York Dr John Elliott – Computational linguist and Coordinator of the SETI Post Detection Hub, University of St Andrews Professor Ian Roberts — Theoretical and Applied Linguistics, University of Cambridge NASA's new telescope will revolutionise the search for non-Earth based life. It's to be called the Habitable Worlds Observatory and will be powerful enough to peer into the atmosphere of planets outside of our solar system. But if, or when, we do find evidence of a life form beyond our solar system what do we do next? And who should decide whether or even how we make contact? A new research hub at the University of Andrews is among those drawing up a plan. Guests Dr Megan Ansdell – Program Manager, Habitable Worlds Observatory, NASA Professor Adam Frank – Astrobiologist and astrophysicist, University of Rochester, New York Dr John Elliott – Computational linguist and Coordinator of the SETI Post Detection Hub, University of St Andrews Professor Ian Roberts — Theoretical and Applied Linguistics, University of Cambridge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices NASA's new telescope will revolutionise the search for non-Earth based life. It's to be called the Habitable Worlds Observatory and will be powerful enough to peer into the atmosphere of planets outside of our solar system.

But if, or when, we do find evidence of a life form beyond our solar system what do we do next? And who should decide whether or even how we make contact? A new research hub at the University of Andrews is among those drawing up a plan.

Guests

Dr Megan Ansdell – Program Manager, Habitable Worlds Observatory, NASA

Professor Adam Frank – Astrobiologist and astrophysicist, University of Rochester, New York

Dr John Elliott – Computational linguist and Coordinator of the SETI Post Detection Hub, University of St Andrews

Professor Ian Roberts — Theoretical and Applied Linguistics, University of Cambridge

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Technology and language — a dynamic relationship https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/technology-and-language-a-dynamic-relationship-/103956070 While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak". And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language. Guests Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK Further information Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak". And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language. Guests Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK Further information Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language" While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak". And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language. Guests Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK Further information Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices While technology platforms increasingly dictate the way we write and converse, language is being modified to fight back, to subvert the platforms. In this show we examine the growth of "algospeak".

And if you want to know how we'll all be communicating in the future, just listen to the way teenage girls speak, because young women lead the ongoing development of language.

Guests

Dr James Cohen – Assistant Professor, Media Studies, Queens College, City University of New York

Dr Sali Tagliamonte – Professor of linguistics and Chair of the Department of Linguistics, University of Toronto

Philip Seargeant – Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, Open University UK

Further information

Philip Seargeant's book "The Future Of Language"

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Rethinking productivity and the pushback to shareholder capitalism https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/rethinking-productivity-shareholder-capitalism/103924160 It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates. Original broadcast on August 20, 2023 Guests Ed Chambliss – founder and CEO, Best Friend Brands Lachlan Kerwood-McCall – Economist, Australian National University Jessica Lynd – Attorney and Senior Associate, International Trade Group, White and Case Dominic Price – Work Futurist, Atlassian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 27 Jun 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates. Original broadcast on August 20, 2023 Guests Ed Chambliss – founder and CEO, Best Friend Brands Lachlan Kerwood-McCall – Economist, Australian National University Jessica Lynd – Attorney and Senior Associate, International Trade Group, White and Case Dominic Price – Work Futurist, Atlassian It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates. Original broadcast on August 20, 2023 Guests Ed Chambliss – founder and CEO, Best Friend Brands Lachlan Kerwood-McCall – Economist, Australian National University Jessica Lynd – Attorney and Senior Associate, International Trade Group, White and Case Dominic Price – Work Futurist, Atlassian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates.

Original broadcast on August 20, 2023

Guests

Ed Chambliss – founder and CEO, Best Friend Brands

Lachlan Kerwood-McCall – Economist, Australian National University

Jessica Lynd – Attorney and Senior Associate, International Trade Group, White and Case

Dominic Price – Work Futurist, Atlassian

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Limitarianism — could a cap on wealth reduce inequality? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/cap-on-wealth-reduce-inequality-tax-the-super-rich/103894220 When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism. Guests Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands) Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future Further information Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Jun 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism. Guests Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands) Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future Further information Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet  Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy   When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism. Guests Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands) Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future Further information Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When a company CEO can be paid 1,000 times the average employee's salary it's probably time to take a long hard look at wealth inequality. And those calling for the rich to pay more aren't always the ones you'd expect – Patriotic Millionaires is a group of mega rich individuals demanding greater, not lesser taxation. Then there's the Dutch philosopher urging ordinary citizens to put a cap on their own personal wealth. She calls her approach Limitarianism. Also, Rewilding the Internet – how to purify an online environment made toxic by monopolistic capitalism.

Guests

Dr Ingrid Robeyns – author, philosopher and Chair in Ethics of Institutions, Ethics Institute, Utrecht University (The Netherlands)

Robert Guest – Deputy Editor, The Economist

Morris Pearl – Chair of the Board, The Patriotic Millionaires

Professor Jean-Etienne Joullie — EMLV Business School, Paris

Maria Farrell – Writer and keynote speaker on technology and the future

Further information

Ingrid Robeyns: Limitarianism, The Case Against Extreme Wealth

Robert Guest: The fallacious case for abolishing the rich

Maria Farrell: We need to rewild the Internet

Listen to Future Tense - Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Sucking CO2 from the air — a "Mammoth task" https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/carbon-capture-storage-removal-from-air-climate-change/103944156 They've just unveiled the world's largest air purifier in Iceland. Christened "Mammoth" the machine can filter up to 36,000 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere every year. It's the biggest carbon capture device ever built – but is it mammoth enough? And do the economics stack up? Other scientists are using microbes to speed the process of mineralisation, the turning of CO2 into rock. And all the while the search for alternative energy sources continues with an Icelandic company even getting ready to drill down into an underground magma chamber to try and tap its thermal potential. Dr Rudy Kahsar – Manager, Carbon Dioxide Removal Team, Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) Dr Gokce Ustunisik – Associate Professor of Petrology, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Bjorn por Gudmundsson – Chief Executive Officer, Krafla Magma Testbed Dr Jess Adkins – Professor of Geochemistry and Global Environmental Science, California Institute of Technology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Jun 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia They've just unveiled the world's largest air purifier in Iceland. Christened "Mammoth" the machine can filter up to 36,000 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere every year. It's the biggest carbon capture device ever built – but is it mammoth enough? And do the economics stack up? Other scientists are using microbes to speed the process of mineralisation, the turning of CO2 into rock. And all the while the search for alternative energy sources continues with an Icelandic company even getting ready to drill down into an underground magma chamber to try and tap its thermal potential. Dr Rudy Kahsar – Manager, Carbon Dioxide Removal Team, Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) Dr Gokce Ustunisik – Associate Professor of Petrology, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Bjorn por Gudmundsson – Chief Executive Officer, Krafla Magma Testbed Dr Jess Adkins – Professor of Geochemistry and Global Environmental Science, California Institute of Technology They've just unveiled the world's largest air purifier in Iceland. Christened "Mammoth" the machine can filter up to 36,000 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere every year. It's the biggest carbon capture device ever built – but is it mammoth enough? And do the economics stack up? Other scientists are using microbes to speed the process of mineralisation, the turning of CO2 into rock. And all the while the search for alternative energy sources continues with an Icelandic company even getting ready to drill down into an underground magma chamber to try and tap its thermal potential. Dr Rudy Kahsar – Manager, Carbon Dioxide Removal Team, Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) Dr Gokce Ustunisik – Associate Professor of Petrology, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Bjorn por Gudmundsson – Chief Executive Officer, Krafla Magma Testbed Dr Jess Adkins – Professor of Geochemistry and Global Environmental Science, California Institute of Technology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices They've just unveiled the world's largest air purifier in Iceland. Christened "Mammoth" the machine can filter up to 36,000 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere every year. It's the biggest carbon capture device ever built – but is it mammoth enough? And do the economics stack up?

Other scientists are using microbes to speed the process of mineralisation, the turning of CO2 into rock.

And all the while the search for alternative energy sources continues with an Icelandic company even getting ready to drill down into an underground magma chamber to try and tap its thermal potential.

Dr Rudy Kahsar – Manager, Carbon Dioxide Removal Team, Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI)

Dr Gokce Ustunisik – Associate Professor of Petrology, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Bjorn por Gudmundsson – Chief Executive Officer, Krafla Magma Testbed

Dr Jess Adkins – Professor of Geochemistry and Global Environmental Science, California Institute of Technology

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]]> 1808 The truth about AI – garbage in, garbage out https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/truth-about-ai-workplace-animals-music-copy-right/103835844 Exploring new ideas, new AI isn't magic, but many of us are accustomed to thinking and talking about it as if it was. It can't solve every problem and its application can sometimes make matters worse. To make the most of Artificial Intelligence we should follow the dictum often used by data scientists – garbage in, garbage out. In other words, AI is only as good as the person who deploys it. In this episode we explore several cautionary examples. Guests Dr Guillaume Desjardins – Associate Professor, Industrial Relations, Université du Québec en Outaouais Dr Magdalena Soffia – Lead author, Workplace AI study, Institute for Work, UK Virginie Simoneau-Gillbert – Researcher, Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford Dr Wellett Potter – Lecturer in Law, University of New England Further information Briefing Paper: What impact does exposure to workplace technologies have on workers' quality of life? - IFOW  The Dangers of AI farming (animals)approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 06 Jun 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Exploring new ideas, new AI isn't magic, but many of us are accustomed to thinking and talking about it as if it was. It can't solve every problem and its application can sometimes make matters worse. To make the most of Artificial Intelligence we should follow the dictum often used by data scientists – garbage in, garbage out. In other words, AI is only as good as the person who deploys it. In this episode we explore several cautionary examples. Guests Dr Guillaume Desjardins – Associate Professor, Industrial Relations, Université du Québec en Outaouais Dr Magdalena Soffia – Lead author, Workplace AI study, Institute for Work, UK Virginie Simoneau-Gillbert – Researcher, Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford Dr Wellett Potter – Lecturer in Law, University of New England Further information Briefing Paper: What impact does exposure to workplace technologies have on workers' quality of life? - IFOW  The Dangers of AI farming (animals)approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Exploring new ideas, new AI isn't magic, but many of us are accustomed to thinking and talking about it as if it was. It can't solve every problem and its application can sometimes make matters worse. To make the most of Artificial Intelligence we should follow the dictum often used by data scientists – garbage in, garbage out. In other words, AI is only as good as the person who deploys it. In this episode we explore several cautionary examples. Guests Dr Guillaume Desjardins – Associate Professor, Industrial Relations, Université du Québec en Outaouais Dr Magdalena Soffia – Lead author, Workplace AI study, Institute for Work, UK Virginie Simoneau-Gillbert – Researcher, Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford Dr Wellett Potter – Lecturer in Law, University of New England Further information Briefing Paper: What impact does exposure to workplace technologies have on workers' quality of life? - IFOW  The Dangers of AI farming (animals)approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Exploring new ideas, new AI isn't magic, but many of us are accustomed to thinking and talking about it as if it was. It can't solve every problem and its application can sometimes make matters worse. To make the most of Artificial Intelligence we should follow the dictum often used by data scientists – garbage in, garbage out. In other words, AI is only as good as the person who deploys it. In this episode we explore several cautionary examples.

Guests

Dr Guillaume Desjardins – Associate Professor, Industrial Relations, Université du Québec en Outaouais

Dr Magdalena Soffia – Lead author, Workplace AI study, Institute for Work, UK

Virginie Simoneau-Gillbert – Researcher, Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford

Dr Wellett Potter – Lecturer in Law, University of New England

Further information

Briefing Paper: What impact does exposure to workplace technologies have on workers' quality of life? - IFOW 

The Dangers of AI farming (animals)approaches, new technologies — the edge of change.

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]]> 1815 The best response to disasters: centralised strength or community mitigation? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/natural-disaster-response-centralised-community-polycrises/103805980 Australia's disaster response procedures are under review. The new reality requires us to deal with multiple natural disasters simultaneously — to tackle polycrises. While some suggest a more centralised approach, others are calling for something very different — a greater focus on strengthening local community resilience and prioritising mitigation over clean-up. The climate clock is ticking, so which direction promises the greatest return? Guests Dr Paul Barnes – Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University Rebecca McNaught – Research Fellow, University Centre for Rural Health, Lismore, NSW Mark Duckworth – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies, Deakin University Professor Mehmet Ulubasoglu – Director of the Centre for Energy, the Environment and Natural Disasters, Deakin University Listen to Future Tense — Designing buildings for disasters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 30 May 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Australia's disaster response procedures are under review. The new reality requires us to deal with multiple natural disasters simultaneously — to tackle polycrises. While some suggest a more centralised approach, others are calling for something very different — a greater focus on strengthening local community resilience and prioritising mitigation over clean-up. The climate clock is ticking, so which direction promises the greatest return? Guests Dr Paul Barnes – Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University Rebecca McNaught – Research Fellow, University Centre for Rural Health, Lismore, NSW Mark Duckworth – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies, Deakin University Professor Mehmet Ulubasoglu – Director of the Centre for Energy, the Environment and Natural Disasters, Deakin University Listen to Future Tense — Designing buildings for disasters Australia's disaster response procedures are under review. The new reality requires us to deal with multiple natural disasters simultaneously — to tackle polycrises. While some suggest a more centralised approach, others are calling for something very different — a greater focus on strengthening local community resilience and prioritising mitigation over clean-up. The climate clock is ticking, so which direction promises the greatest return? Guests Dr Paul Barnes – Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University Rebecca McNaught – Research Fellow, University Centre for Rural Health, Lismore, NSW Mark Duckworth – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies, Deakin University Professor Mehmet Ulubasoglu – Director of the Centre for Energy, the Environment and Natural Disasters, Deakin University Listen to Future Tense — Designing buildings for disasters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Australia's disaster response procedures are under review. The new reality requires us to deal with multiple natural disasters simultaneously — to tackle polycrises. While some suggest a more centralised approach, others are calling for something very different — a greater focus on strengthening local community resilience and prioritising mitigation over clean-up. The climate clock is ticking, so which direction promises the greatest return?

Guests

Dr Paul Barnes – Senior Research Fellow and emergency and risk management expert, Griffith University

Rebecca McNaught – Research Fellow, University Centre for Rural Health, Lismore, NSW

Mark Duckworth – Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies, Deakin University

Professor Mehmet Ulubasoglu – Director of the Centre for Energy, the Environment and Natural Disasters, Deakin University

Listen to Future Tense — Designing buildings for disasters

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]]> 1808 The greatest demographic shift in a century is being ignored: single living https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/demografic-shift-single-living-singleton-singlism/103776880 Across the globe single household occupancy is skyrocketing. In some Western cities "singletons" make up almost fifty per cent. But it's a trend that's largely slipped under the radar. Policy makers are yet to catch up with the new social reality. The growing cohort has significant economic potential, but they continue to face stereotyping and discrimination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 23 May 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Across the globe single household occupancy is skyrocketing. In some Western cities "singletons" make up almost fifty per cent. But it's a trend that's largely slipped under the radar. Policy makers are yet to catch up with the new social reality. The growing cohort has significant economic potential, but they continue to face stereotyping and discrimination. Across the globe single household occupancy is skyrocketing. In some Western cities "singletons" make up almost fifty per cent. But it's a trend that's largely slipped under the radar. Policy makers are yet to catch up with the new social reality. The growing cohort has significant economic potential, but they continue to face stereotyping and discrimination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Across the globe single household occupancy is skyrocketing. In some Western cities "singletons" make up almost fifty per cent. But it's a trend that's largely slipped under the radar. Policy makers are yet to catch up with the new social reality. The growing cohort has significant economic potential, but they continue to face stereotyping and discrimination.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 It's time to take the Influencer economy seriously https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/internet-influencer-economy-energy-islands/103750174 Globally, around 300 million people consider themselves "influencers" or professional content creators. In the United States alone the number is approximately 13 million – that's roughly the same size of the US manufacturing sector. It's a precarious profession and the reasons for choosing to become an influencer are many and varied. So, what does their rise tell us about the modern workforce? Also, building islands to create offshore energy hubs; and a warning about the dangers of normalising the abnormal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 16 May 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Globally, around 300 million people consider themselves "influencers" or professional content creators. In the United States alone the number is approximately 13 million – that's roughly the same size of the US manufacturing sector. It's a precarious profession and the reasons for choosing to become an influencer are many and varied. So, what does their rise tell us about the modern workforce? Also, building islands to create offshore energy hubs; and a warning about the dangers of normalising the abnormal. Globally, around 300 million people consider themselves "influencers" or professional content creators. In the United States alone the number is approximately 13 million – that's roughly the same size of the US manufacturing sector. It's a precarious profession and the reasons for choosing to become an influencer are many and varied. So, what does their rise tell us about the modern workforce? Also, building islands to create offshore energy hubs; and a warning about the dangers of normalising the abnormal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Globally, around 300 million people consider themselves "influencers" or professional content creators. In the United States alone the number is approximately 13 million – that's roughly the same size of the US manufacturing sector. It's a precarious profession and the reasons for choosing to become an influencer are many and varied. So, what does their rise tell us about the modern workforce? Also, building islands to create offshore energy hubs; and a warning about the dangers of normalising the abnormal.

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]]> 1808 When good intentions fuel further environmental problems https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/when-good-intentions-fuel-further-environmental-problems/103744240 Many of us take actions to improve the environment and make for a better planet. But in a consumerist world where status is all, it can be hard to avoid making choices that negate your original intentions and send you back to square one. It happens in everyday life when picking a car or building a new house. And it happens on a large scale. For example where mass tree-planting occurs in habitats that were never meant to be forested. Shouldn't we know better? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 May 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Many of us take actions to improve the environment and make for a better planet. But in a consumerist world where status is all, it can be hard to avoid making choices that negate your original intentions and send you back to square one. It happens in everyday life when picking a car or building a new house. And it happens on a large scale. For example where mass tree-planting occurs in habitats that were never meant to be forested. Shouldn't we know better? Many of us take actions to improve the environment and make for a better planet. But in a consumerist world where status is all, it can be hard to avoid making choices that negate your original intentions and send you back to square one. It happens in everyday life when picking a car or building a new house. And it happens on a large scale. For example where mass tree-planting occurs in habitats that were never meant to be forested. Shouldn't we know better? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Many of us take actions to improve the environment and make for a better planet. But in a consumerist world where status is all, it can be hard to avoid making choices that negate your original intentions and send you back to square one. It happens in everyday life when picking a car or building a new house. And it happens on a large scale. For example where mass tree-planting occurs in habitats that were never meant to be forested. Shouldn't we know better?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Big corporations are taking over as landlords and it's further fuelling the global housing crisis https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/corporations-taking-over-as-landloard-fuelling-housing-crisis/103727808 Insecure housing has long-term effects on both individuals and communities, it's impacting the social fabric of countries around the world. Corporations buying up housing stocks are further adding to the pressure. In rich and poor countries alike the cost of housing is outstripping growth in incomes. As a result, more than 100 million people have been made homeless, according to the UN. While more than 1.6 billion lack adequate housing and essential services. We also explore some possible solutions. But the big question mark hanging over the future of the sector remains political will. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 02 May 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Insecure housing has long-term effects on both individuals and communities, it's impacting the social fabric of countries around the world. Corporations buying up housing stocks are further adding to the pressure. In rich and poor countries alike the cost of housing is outstripping growth in incomes. As a result, more than 100 million people have been made homeless, according to the UN. While more than 1.6 billion lack adequate housing and essential services. We also explore some possible solutions. But the big question mark hanging over the future of the sector remains political will. Insecure housing has long-term effects on both individuals and communities, it's impacting the social fabric of countries around the world. Corporations buying up housing stocks are further adding to the pressure. In rich and poor countries alike the cost of housing is outstripping growth in incomes. As a result, more than 100 million people have been made homeless, according to the UN. While more than 1.6 billion lack adequate housing and essential services. We also explore some possible solutions. But the big question mark hanging over the future of the sector remains political will. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Insecure housing has long-term effects on both individuals and communities, it's impacting the social fabric of countries around the world. Corporations buying up housing stocks are further adding to the pressure. In rich and poor countries alike the cost of housing is outstripping growth in incomes. As a result, more than 100 million people have been made homeless, according to the UN. While more than 1.6 billion lack adequate housing and essential services. We also explore some possible solutions. But the big question mark hanging over the future of the sector remains political will.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 The great distribution dilemma – can public interest journalism survive? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/public-interest-journalism-news-distribution-social-media/103683904 For more than a decade serious news organisatons, including public broadcasters, have increasingly relied on social media and other third-party digital distribution platforms to reach audiences. But now the big tech platforms are no longer interested in traditional news. So, can public interest journalism survive without the online networks they let cannibalise their content? How can serious news outlets avoid slipping into obscurity? And what impact would such a decline have on our culture and democracy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 25 Apr 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia For more than a decade serious news organisatons, including public broadcasters, have increasingly relied on social media and other third-party digital distribution platforms to reach audiences. But now the big tech platforms are no longer interested in traditional news. So, can public interest journalism survive without the online networks they let cannibalise their content? How can serious news outlets avoid slipping into obscurity? And what impact would such a decline have on our culture and democracy? For more than a decade serious news organisatons, including public broadcasters, have increasingly relied on social media and other third-party digital distribution platforms to reach audiences. But now the big tech platforms are no longer interested in traditional news. So, can public interest journalism survive without the online networks they let cannibalise their content? How can serious news outlets avoid slipping into obscurity? And what impact would such a decline have on our culture and democracy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices For more than a decade serious news organisatons, including public broadcasters, have increasingly relied on social media and other third-party digital distribution platforms to reach audiences. But now the big tech platforms are no longer interested in traditional news. So, can public interest journalism survive without the online networks they let cannibalise their content? How can serious news outlets avoid slipping into obscurity? And what impact would such a decline have on our culture and democracy?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Dark sky at night, everyone's delight https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/dark-sky-light-pollution-building-with-timber-paleaoconservation/103656052 It's estimated that by 2030 more than 100 thousand satellites are likely to be buzzing around in low-Earth orbit – and the implications of that for our dark skies is potentially significant. We hear from the Executive Director of the non-profit network DarkSky International. Also, is our environmental future written in the past? Paleo-conservation could be the answer to how we adapt to the adverse effects of climate change; and in Stockholm, engineers and builders are hard at work creating an entire city district in wood – from apartments to office towers. So, what's the advantage to building in timber? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 18 Apr 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It's estimated that by 2030 more than 100 thousand satellites are likely to be buzzing around in low-Earth orbit – and the implications of that for our dark skies is potentially significant. We hear from the Executive Director of the non-profit network DarkSky International. Also, is our environmental future written in the past? Paleo-conservation could be the answer to how we adapt to the adverse effects of climate change; and in Stockholm, engineers and builders are hard at work creating an entire city district in wood – from apartments to office towers. So, what's the advantage to building in timber? It's estimated that by 2030 more than 100 thousand satellites are likely to be buzzing around in low-Earth orbit – and the implications of that for our dark skies is potentially significant. We hear from the Executive Director of the non-profit network DarkSky International. Also, is our environmental future written in the past? Paleo-conservation could be the answer to how we adapt to the adverse effects of climate change; and in Stockholm, engineers and builders are hard at work creating an entire city district in wood – from apartments to office towers. So, what's the advantage to building in timber? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's estimated that by 2030 more than 100 thousand satellites are likely to be buzzing around in low-Earth orbit – and the implications of that for our dark skies is potentially significant. We hear from the Executive Director of the non-profit network DarkSky International. Also, is our environmental future written in the past? Paleo-conservation could be the answer to how we adapt to the adverse effects of climate change; and in Stockholm, engineers and builders are hard at work creating an entire city district in wood – from apartments to office towers. So, what's the advantage to building in timber?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Nobel-Prize laureate Abhijit Banerjee on the world's largest UBI experiment https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/abhijit-banerjee-on-the-world-s-largest-ubi-experiment/103575350 The world's largest Universal Basic Income trial is currently underway in Kenya. It involves 295 villages and more than 20,000 families. The trial has just reached the two-year mark and Nobel-Prize winning economist, Abhijit Banerjee, joins us to talk about its progress – both economic and social. Also, why it's counterproductive to talk about "screentime" and people being "addicted" to their phones; and speech writer, Lucinda Holdforth, who worries that we've supplanted old fashioned values that emphasised community responsibility with a new array of virtues that are all about personal wants and a focus on self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 11 Apr 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The world's largest Universal Basic Income trial is currently underway in Kenya. It involves 295 villages and more than 20,000 families. The trial has just reached the two-year mark and Nobel-Prize winning economist, Abhijit Banerjee, joins us to talk about its progress – both economic and social. Also, why it's counterproductive to talk about "screentime" and people being "addicted" to their phones; and speech writer, Lucinda Holdforth, who worries that we've supplanted old fashioned values that emphasised community responsibility with a new array of virtues that are all about personal wants and a focus on self. The world's largest Universal Basic Income trial is currently underway in Kenya. It involves 295 villages and more than 20,000 families. The trial has just reached the two-year mark and Nobel-Prize winning economist, Abhijit Banerjee, joins us to talk about its progress – both economic and social. Also, why it's counterproductive to talk about "screentime" and people being "addicted" to their phones; and speech writer, Lucinda Holdforth, who worries that we've supplanted old fashioned values that emphasised community responsibility with a new array of virtues that are all about personal wants and a focus on self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The world's largest Universal Basic Income trial is currently underway in Kenya. It involves 295 villages and more than 20,000 families. The trial has just reached the two-year mark and Nobel-Prize winning economist, Abhijit Banerjee, joins us to talk about its progress – both economic and social. Also, why it's counterproductive to talk about "screentime" and people being "addicted" to their phones; and speech writer, Lucinda Holdforth, who worries that we've supplanted old fashioned values that emphasised community responsibility with a new array of virtues that are all about personal wants and a focus on self.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1809 The manufacturing of "natural food" and how tech can demystify what we eat https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/natural-food-artificial-food-what-we-eat-technology/103551414 Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating. We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 04 Apr 2024 22:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating. We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app. Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating. We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Most people want to eat better. And many of us have embraced the trend toward "natural" foods and conscious eating. We equate "natural" with healthy, nutritious and virtuous, but that can often be way off the mark. New research shows many healthy alternatives are anything but. And our embrace of the term natural is more about expressing identity and morality rather than healthy eating. Empowering people to understand what and how they should eat is what it should be about – and one way to do that is by using a food labelling app.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Self-destructive behaviour — the enemy within  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/self-destructive-behaviour-the-enemy-within-/103551432 Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 28 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course.  Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course. 

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]]> 1808 Fear and anger – the complicated emotions that govern our world https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/fear-and-anger-the-complicated-emotions-that-govern-our-world/103544982 Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fuelling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 21 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fuelling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle. Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fuelling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Authoritarians rule through fear. We can clearly see that from China to the Middle East to eastern Europe. But why do we constantly overlook the way in which fear also shapes democratic societies? It's fuelling populism and distorting our future focus. Then there's anger. It's inspired generations to man the barricades and right society's wrongs. But anger is increasingly becoming a driver of commerce. There's billions to be made in getting you riled up and keeping you that way. Fear fuels anger, and anger blinds you to recognise that your fear might be misguided. A truly vicious cycle.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1809 Algorithmic homogeny – why everything looks and feels the same https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/algorithmic-homogeny-why-everything-looks-and-feels-the-same/103512916 Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 17 Mar 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating. Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Algorithmic feeds are meant to personalise our online experiences, but increasingly they're flattening our culture and fostering a dull conformity, according to best-selling author Kyle Chayka. And the influence they exert on our lives is increasingly physical not just digital. Also, data scientist Gloria Mark who has crunched the numbers on how our attention spans have fared over the past decade or so. If you can keep focused, you might find it fascinating.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 The weaponisation of nostalgia; and has culture come to a standstill? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/weaponisation-of-nostalia-culure-come-to-a-standstill/103487320 Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with RICHARD KING about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 10 Mar 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with RICHARD KING about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium. Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with RICHARD KING about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Nostalgia triggers our emotions and that in turn makes us vulnerable to manipulation. We speak with RICHARD KING about the commodification and weaponisation of nostalgic sentiment. Also, New York Times critic-at-large, Jason Farago, on why he believes our cultural age might be the least innovative in half a millennium.

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]]> 1808 Are we really becoming more isolated and less community minded? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/more-isolated-and-less-community-minded-cultural-evolution/103458080 Social cohesion is under strain. The result, researchers say, of economic, political and work-based pressures. At the same time levels of volunteering are falling and people are showing far less willingness to take part in community-based activities. Some even fear our "cultural evolution" has been disrupted. That is, the process by which our interactions shape future cultural norms. It's complicated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 03 Mar 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Social cohesion is under strain. The result, researchers say, of economic, political and work-based pressures. At the same time levels of volunteering are falling and people are showing far less willingness to take part in community-based activities. Some even fear our "cultural evolution" has been disrupted. That is, the process by which our interactions shape future cultural norms. It's complicated. Social cohesion is under strain. The result, researchers say, of economic, political and work-based pressures. At the same time levels of volunteering are falling and people are showing far less willingness to take part in community-based activities. Some even fear our "cultural evolution" has been disrupted. That is, the process by which our interactions shape future cultural norms. It's complicated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Social cohesion is under strain. The result, researchers say, of economic, political and work-based pressures. At the same time levels of volunteering are falling and people are showing far less willingness to take part in community-based activities. Some even fear our "cultural evolution" has been disrupted. That is, the process by which our interactions shape future cultural norms. It's complicated.

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]]> 1808 TikTok's superstar economy – how live-streaming is turning social media into a game played for money https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/tiktok-economy-game-money/103430298 Fans are spending thousands of dollars a month to support their favourite streamers on TikTok Live, but most of the money is going to TikTok itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 25 Feb 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Fans are spending thousands of dollars a month to support their favourite streamers on TikTok Live, but most of the money is going to TikTok itself. Fans are spending thousands of dollars a month to support their favourite streamers on TikTok Live, but most of the money is going to TikTok itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fans are spending thousands of dollars a month to support their favourite streamers on TikTok Live, but most of the money is going to TikTok itself.

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]]> 1808 Conversing with aliens and 'decentering' the human https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/conversing-with-aliens-and-decentering-the-human/103402358 Cambridge University has a new institute dedicated to understanding extraterrestrial languages. It's about being prepared for the possibility that intelligent life exists beyond our galaxy. Also, the dangers of being overly dramatic when talking about climate change; the link between indigenous language and health; and the researchers who say it's time for human being to wake up to the fact that it's not all about us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 18 Feb 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Cambridge University has a new institute dedicated to understanding extraterrestrial languages. It's about being prepared for the possibility that intelligent life exists beyond our galaxy. Also, the dangers of being overly dramatic when talking about climate change; the link between indigenous language and health; and the researchers who say it's time for human being to wake up to the fact that it's not all about us. Cambridge University has a new institute dedicated to understanding extraterrestrial languages. It's about being prepared for the possibility that intelligent life exists beyond our galaxy. Also, the dangers of being overly dramatic when talking about climate change; the link between indigenous language and health; and the researchers who say it's time for human being to wake up to the fact that it's not all about us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Cambridge University has a new institute dedicated to understanding extraterrestrial languages. It's about being prepared for the possibility that intelligent life exists beyond our galaxy. Also, the dangers of being overly dramatic when talking about climate change; the link between indigenous language and health; and the researchers who say it's time for human being to wake up to the fact that it's not all about us.

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]]> 1809 Does AI show we overestimate our human creativity? And what does creativity mean anyway? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/ai-human-creativity-overestimate/103374896 Among the angst over the creative potential of Artificial Intelligence, some researchers and academics are now turning the spotlight back onto humans. If AI can be as imaginative as your average human being, they ask, what does that say about traditional notions of human creativity? Have we long overestimated our own smarts? It's also prompted a discussion about what "creativity" actually means and why the term only came into common usage during the second half of the last century. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 11 Feb 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Among the angst over the creative potential of Artificial Intelligence, some researchers and academics are now turning the spotlight back onto humans. If AI can be as imaginative as your average human being, they ask, what does that say about traditional notions of human creativity? Have we long overestimated our own smarts? It's also prompted a discussion about what "creativity" actually means and why the term only came into common usage during the second half of the last century. Among the angst over the creative potential of Artificial Intelligence, some researchers and academics are now turning the spotlight back onto humans. If AI can be as imaginative as your average human being, they ask, what does that say about traditional notions of human creativity? Have we long overestimated our own smarts? It's also prompted a discussion about what "creativity" actually means and why the term only came into common usage during the second half of the last century. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Among the angst over the creative potential of Artificial Intelligence, some researchers and academics are now turning the spotlight back onto humans. If AI can be as imaginative as your average human being, they ask, what does that say about traditional notions of human creativity? Have we long overestimated our own smarts? It's also prompted a discussion about what "creativity" actually means and why the term only came into common usage during the second half of the last century.

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]]> 1808 Growing houses and running computers with help from bacteria — the future of synthetic biology https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/synthetic-biology-growing-houses-and-running-computers-bacteria/103323048 Scientists are changing the genetics of cells so that they can be used for a whole range of purposes never before imagined. Think building a biocomputer with a processor powered by bacteria or re-engineering microbes to make environmentally-friendly concrete. The potential is enormous, but there are warnings from within the field, not to let the hype get ahead of reality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 04 Feb 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Scientists are changing the genetics of cells so that they can be used for a whole range of purposes never before imagined. Think building a biocomputer with a processor powered by bacteria or re-engineering microbes to make environmentally-friendly concrete. The potential is enormous, but there are warnings from within the field, not to let the hype get ahead of reality. Scientists are changing the genetics of cells so that they can be used for a whole range of purposes never before imagined. Think building a biocomputer with a processor powered by bacteria or re-engineering microbes to make environmentally-friendly concrete. The potential is enormous, but there are warnings from within the field, not to let the hype get ahead of reality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Scientists are changing the genetics of cells so that they can be used for a whole range of purposes never before imagined. Think building a biocomputer with a processor powered by bacteria or re-engineering microbes to make environmentally-friendly concrete. The potential is enormous, but there are warnings from within the field, not to let the hype get ahead of reality.

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]]> 1808 Building a new social contract  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/building-a-new-social-contract-/103022958 There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 28 Jan 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century? There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There’s a growing public sense that the current model of the social contract is broken, due in large part to rising inequality and the pursuit of profit over social progress. The “social contract” defines the relationship between citizens, their government and business. Its modern form emerged after WWII and, in western democracies, was largely structured around the principles of the welfare state. It’s about equity, order and trust. So, does the essence of the social contract still have value? And if so, how can it make fit for purpose in the 21st century?

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]]> 1808 The Great Regression and the "kidification" of adulthood https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-great-regression-and-the-kidification-of-adulthood/103022860 Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 21 Jan 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”. Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”.

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]]> 1793 Research productivity and innovation is declining https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/declining-research-productivity-innovation-and-disruption/102960838 Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 14 Jan 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment.. Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment..

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]]> 1804 Managerialism ... and what it means for work https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/managerialism-and-what-it-means-for-work/102961182 Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 07 Jan 2024 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change.

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]]> 1797 Turning our back on alcohol https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/turning-our-back-on-alcohol/102961218 Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 31 Dec 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable? Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable?

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]]> 1793 Who are the beneficiaries of climate change? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/who-are-the-beneficiaries-of-climate-change-/102960772 It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 24 Dec 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long? It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long?

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]]> 1797 The Great Plunder – curbing human creativity through mass theft https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/copyright-ai-creativity-sustainable-buildings-domestic-violence/102961244 Technology companies aren’t just stealing your intellectual property – your creative content - they’re making vast profits out of selling it back to you. AI-powered apps like ChatGPT are trained on vast amounts of stolen data. What’s worse, it’s all justified as a public good. They call it “efficient infringement”. So, why are they allowed to get away with it? And what can be done about it? Also, the Living Building Challenge – it’s about building better construction and healthier communities; and a call for greater focus on prevention in dealing with domestic violence.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 17 Dec 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Technology companies aren’t just stealing your intellectual property – your creative content - they’re making vast profits out of selling it back to you. AI-powered apps like ChatGPT are trained on vast amounts of stolen data. What’s worse, it’s all justified as a public good. They call it “efficient infringement”. So, why are they allowed to get away with it? And what can be done about it? Also, the Living Building Challenge – it’s about building better construction and healthier communities; and a call for greater focus on prevention in dealing with domestic violence.   Technology companies aren’t just stealing your intellectual property – your creative content - they’re making vast profits out of selling it back to you. AI-powered apps like ChatGPT are trained on vast amounts of stolen data. What’s worse, it’s all justified as a public good. They call it “efficient infringement”. So, why are they allowed to get away with it? And what can be done about it? Also, the Living Building Challenge – it’s about building better construction and healthier communities; and a call for greater focus on prevention in dealing with domestic violence.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Technology companies aren’t just stealing your intellectual property – your creative content - they’re making vast profits out of selling it back to you. AI-powered apps like ChatGPT are trained on vast amounts of stolen data. What’s worse, it’s all justified as a public good. They call it “efficient infringement”. So, why are they allowed to get away with it? And what can be done about it? Also, the Living Building Challenge – it’s about building better construction and healthier communities; and a call for greater focus on prevention in dealing with domestic violence.  

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]]> 1808 Sweltering Cities – the cost of exponential urbanisation https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/sweltering-cities-the-cost-of-exponential-urbanisation/102961194 It's estimated that by 2050 more than 70 per cent of the world's population will live in cities. Urbanisation carries many benefits, but it also threatens to intensify the climate crisis. So, how do we better design our cities to minimise the "urban heat island" effect? The solutions are out there, but do we have the will to put them into practice? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 10 Dec 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It's estimated that by 2050 more than 70 per cent of the world's population will live in cities. Urbanisation carries many benefits, but it also threatens to intensify the climate crisis. So, how do we better design our cities to minimise the "urban heat island" effect? The solutions are out there, but do we have the will to put them into practice? It's estimated that by 2050 more than 70 per cent of the world's population will live in cities. Urbanisation carries many benefits, but it also threatens to intensify the climate crisis. So, how do we better design our cities to minimise the "urban heat island" effect? The solutions are out there, but do we have the will to put them into practice? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's estimated that by 2050 more than 70 per cent of the world's population will live in cities. Urbanisation carries many benefits, but it also threatens to intensify the climate crisis. So, how do we better design our cities to minimise the "urban heat island" effect? The solutions are out there, but do we have the will to put them into practice?

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]]> 1808 Technology churn versus digital Inclusion https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/technology-churn-versus-digital-inclusion/102961266 The constant upgrading of technology is wearing people down — one in five Australians now saying they feel "overwhelmed" by technological change, according to a recent report. Those at greatest risk of falling further behind include the elderly, the indigenous and migrant and refugee communities. In both health and education there's a push underway to improve access to vital technologies and create a more inclusive digital environment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 03 Dec 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The constant upgrading of technology is wearing people down — one in five Australians now saying they feel "overwhelmed" by technological change, according to a recent report. Those at greatest risk of falling further behind include the elderly, the indigenous and migrant and refugee communities. In both health and education there's a push underway to improve access to vital technologies and create a more inclusive digital environment The constant upgrading of technology is wearing people down — one in five Australians now saying they feel "overwhelmed" by technological change, according to a recent report. Those at greatest risk of falling further behind include the elderly, the indigenous and migrant and refugee communities. In both health and education there's a push underway to improve access to vital technologies and create a more inclusive digital environment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The constant upgrading of technology is wearing people down — one in five Australians now saying they feel "overwhelmed" by technological change, according to a recent report. Those at greatest risk of falling further behind include the elderly, the indigenous and migrant and refugee communities. In both health and education there's a push underway to improve access to vital technologies and create a more inclusive digital environment

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]]> 1808 How ancient trees could help in the fight against climate change https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/how-ancient-trees-could-help-in-the-fight-against-climate-change/102960790 Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 26 Nov 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part. Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part.

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]]> 1808 Why knowing when to finish is as important as getting started https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/why-knowing-when-to-finish-is-as-important-as-getting-started/102961418 In this episode of Future Tense – why charities should have a limited future… getting academics and researchers to think about the end of their research, not just the beginning… and a thoughtful take on the outsourcing of our intelligence –what do we lose when we let machines think for us? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 19 Nov 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia In this episode of Future Tense – why charities should have a limited future… getting academics and researchers to think about the end of their research, not just the beginning… and a thoughtful take on the outsourcing of our intelligence –what do we lose when we let machines think for us? In this episode of Future Tense – why charities should have a limited future… getting academics and researchers to think about the end of their research, not just the beginning… and a thoughtful take on the outsourcing of our intelligence –what do we lose when we let machines think for us? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of Future Tense – why charities should have a limited future… getting academics and researchers to think about the end of their research, not just the beginning… and a thoughtful take on the outsourcing of our intelligence –what do we lose when we let machines think for us?

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]]> 1808 The great scan — mapping below Earth's surface https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-great-scan-mapping-below-earth-s-surface/102960840 Austrian archaeologist, Immo Trinks, has a grand ambition – to map the entire landscape of Europe, below ground! The 3D scanning technology he's using won't just uncover hidden archaeological treasures, it can also be used to check below our cities and major transportation routes for geological faults. Also, why mucking about with subatomic particles could help scientists develop a form of underground GPS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 12 Nov 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Austrian archaeologist, Immo Trinks, has a grand ambition – to map the entire landscape of Europe, below ground! The 3D scanning technology he's using won't just uncover hidden archaeological treasures, it can also be used to check below our cities and major transportation routes for geological faults. Also, why mucking about with subatomic particles could help scientists develop a form of underground GPS. Austrian archaeologist, Immo Trinks, has a grand ambition – to map the entire landscape of Europe, below ground! The 3D scanning technology he's using won't just uncover hidden archaeological treasures, it can also be used to check below our cities and major transportation routes for geological faults. Also, why mucking about with subatomic particles could help scientists develop a form of underground GPS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Austrian archaeologist, Immo Trinks, has a grand ambition – to map the entire landscape of Europe, below ground! The 3D scanning technology he's using won't just uncover hidden archaeological treasures, it can also be used to check below our cities and major transportation routes for geological faults. Also, why mucking about with subatomic particles could help scientists develop a form of underground GPS.

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]]> 1808 Giving old technology a future-focussed twist https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/giving-old-technology-a-future-focussed-twist/102960672 The hydrofoil looks set for a second coming – as a ferry. The boats, which are fitted with skis and electric batteries, literally plane across the top of the water. They're fast, less polluting than traditional passenger craft and could be the perfect marriage between climate-friendly technology and rapid transit needs. Authorities in Sweden and the UK are just about to begin trials. Also, turning trucks into trams – why are Swedish researchers looking to electrify their roads? And the floating, solar vegie-patch – could it boost food production for remote or disadvantaged communities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 05 Nov 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The hydrofoil looks set for a second coming – as a ferry. The boats, which are fitted with skis and electric batteries, literally plane across the top of the water. They're fast, less polluting than traditional passenger craft and could be the perfect marriage between climate-friendly technology and rapid transit needs. Authorities in Sweden and the UK are just about to begin trials. Also, turning trucks into trams – why are Swedish researchers looking to electrify their roads? And the floating, solar vegie-patch – could it boost food production for remote or disadvantaged communities. The hydrofoil looks set for a second coming – as a ferry. The boats, which are fitted with skis and electric batteries, literally plane across the top of the water. They're fast, less polluting than traditional passenger craft and could be the perfect marriage between climate-friendly technology and rapid transit needs. Authorities in Sweden and the UK are just about to begin trials. Also, turning trucks into trams – why are Swedish researchers looking to electrify their roads? And the floating, solar vegie-patch – could it boost food production for remote or disadvantaged communities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The hydrofoil looks set for a second coming – as a ferry. The boats, which are fitted with skis and electric batteries, literally plane across the top of the water. They're fast, less polluting than traditional passenger craft and could be the perfect marriage between climate-friendly technology and rapid transit needs. Authorities in Sweden and the UK are just about to begin trials. Also, turning trucks into trams – why are Swedish researchers looking to electrify their roads? And the floating, solar vegie-patch – could it boost food production for remote or disadvantaged communities.

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]]> 1808 Cory Doctorow: Platform capitalism and the curse of "enshittification" https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/cory-doctorow-enshittification-platform-capitalism/102953478 Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 29 Oct 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future. Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future.

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]]> 1808 Architecture's AI crossroads https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/architecture-s-ai-crossroads/102926974 Advanced Artificial Intelligence and new digital technologies are revolutionising the architectural industry. Architects in Brisbane, for example, have mapped every millimetre of historic Lamb House using a 3D scanner – inside and out – and the speed and accuracy of their modelling saves money and prevents error. The opportunities for creativity are enormous, particularly where AI is concerned. But is the industry inadvertently making itself redundant? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 22 Oct 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Advanced Artificial Intelligence and new digital technologies are revolutionising the architectural industry. Architects in Brisbane, for example, have mapped every millimetre of historic Lamb House using a 3D scanner – inside and out – and the speed and accuracy of their modelling saves money and prevents error. The opportunities for creativity are enormous, particularly where AI is concerned. But is the industry inadvertently making itself redundant? Advanced Artificial Intelligence and new digital technologies are revolutionising the architectural industry. Architects in Brisbane, for example, have mapped every millimetre of historic Lamb House using a 3D scanner – inside and out – and the speed and accuracy of their modelling saves money and prevents error. The opportunities for creativity are enormous, particularly where AI is concerned. But is the industry inadvertently making itself redundant? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Advanced Artificial Intelligence and new digital technologies are revolutionising the architectural industry. Architects in Brisbane, for example, have mapped every millimetre of historic Lamb House using a 3D scanner – inside and out – and the speed and accuracy of their modelling saves money and prevents error. The opportunities for creativity are enormous, particularly where AI is concerned. But is the industry inadvertently making itself redundant?

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]]> 1808 People have to solve the climate crisis — technology alone is not the answer https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/people-have-to-solve-the-climate-crisis-technology-no-answer/102897170 Science and technology cannot solve our most challenging and complex environmental problems. At least not on their own, not without a greater emphasis on person-to-person engagement — people working together across knowledge systems. ABC Top 5 Science Media Resident, Dr Rohan Fisher, says sci-tech too often avoids the difficult, social-political and cultural dimensions. Human-generated problems require human-centric solutions, he argues. In this episode we explore how to utilise tech and science communication in ways that support local knowledge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 15 Oct 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Science and technology cannot solve our most challenging and complex environmental problems. At least not on their own, not without a greater emphasis on person-to-person engagement — people working together across knowledge systems. ABC Top 5 Science Media Resident, Dr Rohan Fisher, says sci-tech too often avoids the difficult, social-political and cultural dimensions. Human-generated problems require human-centric solutions, he argues. In this episode we explore how to utilise tech and science communication in ways that support local knowledge. Science and technology cannot solve our most challenging and complex environmental problems. At least not on their own, not without a greater emphasis on person-to-person engagement — people working together across knowledge systems. ABC Top 5 Science Media Resident, Dr Rohan Fisher, says sci-tech too often avoids the difficult, social-political and cultural dimensions. Human-generated problems require human-centric solutions, he argues. In this episode we explore how to utilise tech and science communication in ways that support local knowledge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Science and technology cannot solve our most challenging and complex environmental problems. At least not on their own, not without a greater emphasis on person-to-person engagement — people working together across knowledge systems. ABC Top 5 Science Media Resident, Dr Rohan Fisher, says sci-tech too often avoids the difficult, social-political and cultural dimensions. Human-generated problems require human-centric solutions, he argues. In this episode we explore how to utilise tech and science communication in ways that support local knowledge.

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]]> 1808 China's plan for a digital currency will have global implications https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/china-digital-currency-global-implications/102871268 The Chinese Government, and its Central Bank, are currently experimenting with a digital currency. The hope is that it will make financial transactions faster, more efficient and cheaper for government, business and ordinary citizens. Some speculate it's about giving China's currency an edge over the PRC's major economic competitor, the United States. But whether Beijing's experiment succeeds or not will depend on matters of trust, surveillance and international appeal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 08 Oct 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The Chinese Government, and its Central Bank, are currently experimenting with a digital currency. The hope is that it will make financial transactions faster, more efficient and cheaper for government, business and ordinary citizens. Some speculate it's about giving China's currency an edge over the PRC's major economic competitor, the United States. But whether Beijing's experiment succeeds or not will depend on matters of trust, surveillance and international appeal. The Chinese Government, and its Central Bank, are currently experimenting with a digital currency. The hope is that it will make financial transactions faster, more efficient and cheaper for government, business and ordinary citizens. Some speculate it's about giving China's currency an edge over the PRC's major economic competitor, the United States. But whether Beijing's experiment succeeds or not will depend on matters of trust, surveillance and international appeal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The Chinese Government, and its Central Bank, are currently experimenting with a digital currency. The hope is that it will make financial transactions faster, more efficient and cheaper for government, business and ordinary citizens. Some speculate it's about giving China's currency an edge over the PRC's major economic competitor, the United States. But whether Beijing's experiment succeeds or not will depend on matters of trust, surveillance and international appeal.

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]]> 1808 Worshipping a divine AI and turning outer space into an art gallery https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/worhipping-divine-ai-and-space-as-an-art-gallery/102843164 It's only a matter of time before people start worshipping Artificial Intelligence as a religion, that's what Philosopher and ethicist, Neil McArthur, believes. And he says while the emergence of AI-based religion would carry risks, there's no basis for discriminating between AI-based religions and more established ones. Also, why artists are sending their creations into the heavens and what makes for good "space art". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 01 Oct 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It's only a matter of time before people start worshipping Artificial Intelligence as a religion, that's what Philosopher and ethicist, Neil McArthur, believes. And he says while the emergence of AI-based religion would carry risks, there's no basis for discriminating between AI-based religions and more established ones. Also, why artists are sending their creations into the heavens and what makes for good "space art". It's only a matter of time before people start worshipping Artificial Intelligence as a religion, that's what Philosopher and ethicist, Neil McArthur, believes. And he says while the emergence of AI-based religion would carry risks, there's no basis for discriminating between AI-based religions and more established ones. Also, why artists are sending their creations into the heavens and what makes for good "space art". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's only a matter of time before people start worshipping Artificial Intelligence as a religion, that's what Philosopher and ethicist, Neil McArthur, believes. And he says while the emergence of AI-based religion would carry risks, there's no basis for discriminating between AI-based religions and more established ones. Also, why artists are sending their creations into the heavens and what makes for good "space art".

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]]> 1808 The normalisation of economic warfare https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-normalisation-of-economic-warfare/102814052 "Geoeconomic confrontation" ranks as one of the most severe risks facing the world, according to a recent World Economic Forum report. Trade is increasingly becoming a weapon of warfare, and the future consequences for world co-operation could be significant. So, should the use of sanctions be regulated by an international body? And if a global regulator was established would it have teeth? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 24 Sep 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia "Geoeconomic confrontation" ranks as one of the most severe risks facing the world, according to a recent World Economic Forum report. Trade is increasingly becoming a weapon of warfare, and the future consequences for world co-operation could be significant. So, should the use of sanctions be regulated by an international body? And if a global regulator was established would it have teeth? "Geoeconomic confrontation" ranks as one of the most severe risks facing the world, according to a recent World Economic Forum report. Trade is increasingly becoming a weapon of warfare, and the future consequences for world co-operation could be significant. So, should the use of sanctions be regulated by an international body? And if a global regulator was established would it have teeth? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices "Geoeconomic confrontation" ranks as one of the most severe risks facing the world, according to a recent World Economic Forum report. Trade is increasingly becoming a weapon of warfare, and the future consequences for world co-operation could be significant. So, should the use of sanctions be regulated by an international body? And if a global regulator was established would it have teeth?

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]]> 1808 Considering unintended consequences is the new crucial skill for the 21th century https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/unintended-consequences-new-crucial-skill-for-the-21st-century/102784312 In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 17 Sep 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking. In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In our uber-connected world, the development and management of really anything is becoming increasingly complex. Planning for the future has to involve more than just grand ambitions, it also needs to be alert to unintended consequences. Otherwise things you didn't even dream about will go wrong and that can prove enormously costly. Part of the solution is to think past the immediate and adopt a systematic approach to thinking.

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]]> 1808 The complexities of oversimplification https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-complexities-of-oversimplification/102756296 Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 10 Sep 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective. Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective.

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]]> 1798 The Circular Economy approach – thinking systemically about the environment https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/circular-economy-thinking-systemically-environment/102726458 Much of the way we think about the economy and our environment is based on a linear model – a system of extraction, consumption and waste. But advocates for a "circular economy" approach argue it's time to start mimicking the cycles of nature that keep the planet healthy. It's about seeing waste as a resource and thinking about the future impact of today's decisions. It's a noble idea, but is it realistic? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 03 Sep 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Much of the way we think about the economy and our environment is based on a linear model – a system of extraction, consumption and waste. But advocates for a "circular economy" approach argue it's time to start mimicking the cycles of nature that keep the planet healthy. It's about seeing waste as a resource and thinking about the future impact of today's decisions. It's a noble idea, but is it realistic? Much of the way we think about the economy and our environment is based on a linear model – a system of extraction, consumption and waste. But advocates for a "circular economy" approach argue it's time to start mimicking the cycles of nature that keep the planet healthy. It's about seeing waste as a resource and thinking about the future impact of today's decisions. It's a noble idea, but is it realistic? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Much of the way we think about the economy and our environment is based on a linear model – a system of extraction, consumption and waste. But advocates for a "circular economy" approach argue it's time to start mimicking the cycles of nature that keep the planet healthy. It's about seeing waste as a resource and thinking about the future impact of today's decisions. It's a noble idea, but is it realistic?

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]]> 3300 Should you pay to drive into your city centre — for the sake of the climate? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/pay-to-drive-into-your-city-centre-congestion-climate-change/102700442 Authorities in New York city are planning to introduce a congestion pricing scheme. Vehicles entering certain parts of Manhattan will soon have to pay for the right to do so. Proponents of such schemes say they help reduce traffic, improve air quality, and can boost public transport patronage and funding. But from the experience of other cities around the world, vested interests and partisan politics can prove a stumbling block. So, what measures work best and how do you ensure social and economic equity? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 27 Aug 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Authorities in New York city are planning to introduce a congestion pricing scheme. Vehicles entering certain parts of Manhattan will soon have to pay for the right to do so. Proponents of such schemes say they help reduce traffic, improve air quality, and can boost public transport patronage and funding. But from the experience of other cities around the world, vested interests and partisan politics can prove a stumbling block. So, what measures work best and how do you ensure social and economic equity? Authorities in New York city are planning to introduce a congestion pricing scheme. Vehicles entering certain parts of Manhattan will soon have to pay for the right to do so. Proponents of such schemes say they help reduce traffic, improve air quality, and can boost public transport patronage and funding. But from the experience of other cities around the world, vested interests and partisan politics can prove a stumbling block. So, what measures work best and how do you ensure social and economic equity? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Authorities in New York city are planning to introduce a congestion pricing scheme. Vehicles entering certain parts of Manhattan will soon have to pay for the right to do so. Proponents of such schemes say they help reduce traffic, improve air quality, and can boost public transport patronage and funding. But from the experience of other cities around the world, vested interests and partisan politics can prove a stumbling block. So, what measures work best and how do you ensure social and economic equity?

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]]> 1808 Rethinking productivity and the pushback to shareholder capitalism https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/rethinking-productivity-pushback-to-shareholder-capitalism/102671478 It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 20 Aug 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates. It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's time to rethink what we mean by productivity, says work futurist, Dominic Price. What's important isn't output, but outcomes. And confusing the two, he says, is simply counter-productive! Also, benefit corporations — why many businesses are moving away from an obsession with profit at all cost; And why a compulsory savings model could help control inflation without raising interest rates.

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]]> 1808 Acoustic restoration of ecosystems — how the sound of love helps animals return to old habitats https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/acoustic-restoration-ecosystems-sound-helps-animals-to-return/102638764 Scientists are experimenting with sound to try and lure seabirds back to depleted environments. But not just any sounds – we're talking about the coos and calls associated with breeding. It's all part of an ecological approach called Acoustic Restoration and its already having an impact on Palmyra Atoll – a remote island halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa. It's hoped the acoustic approach can revive many different kinds of ecosystems, even after natural disasters — when nothing is left. Also, why machine learning is causing a reproducibility crisis in Science; and ongoing research into 3D-printing food. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 13 Aug 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Scientists are experimenting with sound to try and lure seabirds back to depleted environments. But not just any sounds – we're talking about the coos and calls associated with breeding. It's all part of an ecological approach called Acoustic Restoration and its already having an impact on Palmyra Atoll – a remote island halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa. It's hoped the acoustic approach can revive many different kinds of ecosystems, even after natural disasters — when nothing is left. Also, why machine learning is causing a reproducibility crisis in Science; and ongoing research into 3D-printing food. Scientists are experimenting with sound to try and lure seabirds back to depleted environments. But not just any sounds – we're talking about the coos and calls associated with breeding. It's all part of an ecological approach called Acoustic Restoration and its already having an impact on Palmyra Atoll – a remote island halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa. It's hoped the acoustic approach can revive many different kinds of ecosystems, even after natural disasters — when nothing is left. Also, why machine learning is causing a reproducibility crisis in Science; and ongoing research into 3D-printing food. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Scientists are experimenting with sound to try and lure seabirds back to depleted environments. But not just any sounds – we're talking about the coos and calls associated with breeding. It's all part of an ecological approach called Acoustic Restoration and its already having an impact on Palmyra Atoll – a remote island halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa. It's hoped the acoustic approach can revive many different kinds of ecosystems, even after natural disasters — when nothing is left. Also, why machine learning is causing a reproducibility crisis in Science; and ongoing research into 3D-printing food.

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]]> 1808 Air conditioning: keeping us cool but making the planet hotter https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/air-conditioning-keeping-us-cool-but-making-the-planet-hotter/102610312 Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 06 Aug 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives? Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives?

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]]> 1808 Algorithmic Intimacy – self-love, liability and babies as click bait https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/self-love-liability-and-babies-as-click-bait-algorithms/102583216 Chatbots and other forms of interactive AI aren't just shaping our online preferences, they're gradually redefining the contours of what we mean by love, sexuality and intimacy. Sociologist Anthony Elliott warns the impacts will be society-wide, not just personal. Also, do we need a set of general principles for managing chatbot liability in the absence of regulation? And how the rights of children are being overlooked in the hyper-contructed world of the "momfluencer". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 30 Jul 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Chatbots and other forms of interactive AI aren't just shaping our online preferences, they're gradually redefining the contours of what we mean by love, sexuality and intimacy. Sociologist Anthony Elliott warns the impacts will be society-wide, not just personal. Also, do we need a set of general principles for managing chatbot liability in the absence of regulation? And how the rights of children are being overlooked in the hyper-contructed world of the "momfluencer". Chatbots and other forms of interactive AI aren't just shaping our online preferences, they're gradually redefining the contours of what we mean by love, sexuality and intimacy. Sociologist Anthony Elliott warns the impacts will be society-wide, not just personal. Also, do we need a set of general principles for managing chatbot liability in the absence of regulation? And how the rights of children are being overlooked in the hyper-contructed world of the "momfluencer". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Chatbots and other forms of interactive AI aren't just shaping our online preferences, they're gradually redefining the contours of what we mean by love, sexuality and intimacy. Sociologist Anthony Elliott warns the impacts will be society-wide, not just personal. Also, do we need a set of general principles for managing chatbot liability in the absence of regulation? And how the rights of children are being overlooked in the hyper-contructed world of the "momfluencer".

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]]> 1808 Self-destructive behaviour — the enemy within  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/self-destructive-behaviour-the-enemy-within-/102554386 Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 23 Jul 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course.  Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Why do otherwise sensible people continue to do things that are bad for them, that impact negatively on their personal future? Also, what happens in the brain when you're trying to make or break a habit?  Temptation, addiction and habit formation – mapping the pathways to self-destruction and how to navigate a better course. 

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]]> 1808 The first ever drop in global energy sector emissions; and the battle for our brains https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/drop-in-global-energy-sector-emissions-battle-for-your-brain/102525758 2023 could be the year we finally reach a tipping point in the fight against climate change. The energy think-tank Ember predicts global greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector (which accounts for 30% of global emissions) are finally on the way down. Also, a tipping point of a very different kind – experimentation in neuro-technology is now so advanced that ethicist Nita Farahany believes companies and governments will soon be trawling our thoughts the way they currently trawl our digital communications. She's talking of a new human right – a right to cognitive liberty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 16 Jul 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia 2023 could be the year we finally reach a tipping point in the fight against climate change. The energy think-tank Ember predicts global greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector (which accounts for 30% of global emissions) are finally on the way down. Also, a tipping point of a very different kind – experimentation in neuro-technology is now so advanced that ethicist Nita Farahany believes companies and governments will soon be trawling our thoughts the way they currently trawl our digital communications. She's talking of a new human right – a right to cognitive liberty. 2023 could be the year we finally reach a tipping point in the fight against climate change. The energy think-tank Ember predicts global greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector (which accounts for 30% of global emissions) are finally on the way down. Also, a tipping point of a very different kind – experimentation in neuro-technology is now so advanced that ethicist Nita Farahany believes companies and governments will soon be trawling our thoughts the way they currently trawl our digital communications. She's talking of a new human right – a right to cognitive liberty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices 2023 could be the year we finally reach a tipping point in the fight against climate change. The energy think-tank Ember predicts global greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector (which accounts for 30% of global emissions) are finally on the way down. Also, a tipping point of a very different kind – experimentation in neuro-technology is now so advanced that ethicist Nita Farahany believes companies and governments will soon be trawling our thoughts the way they currently trawl our digital communications. She's talking of a new human right – a right to cognitive liberty.

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]]> 1808 Should individuals bear the largest burden for climate action? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/should-individuals-bear-the-largest-burden-for-climate-action-/102499948 Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 09 Jul 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change.

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]]> 1808 Cory Doctorow: Platform capitalism and the curse of "enshittification" https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/cory-doctorow-enshittification-platform-capitalism/102492918 Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 02 Jul 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future. Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Amazon now feels more like a racket than an open shopping platform; you can't find posts from your friends on Facebook because it's clogged with unsolicited advertising; and Uber no longer seems like a cool, efficient taxi service, it's morphed instead into a global machine for turning gig workers into the new underclass – it's all part of a process Cory Doctorow has dubbed "enshittification". In this feature interview, the Canadian sci-fi author, journalist and digital rights activist explains why the digital world seems so exploitative and tawdry. But he has optimism for how things might be improved in the future.

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]]> 1808 A new lifeline for local news https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/local-news-and-targeted-advertising/102466538 Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 25 Jun 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Exploring new ideas, new approaches, new technologies — the edge of change.

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]]> 1808 How Japan is redefining its military defence https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/how-japan-is-redefining-its-military-defence/102472586 Japan has long prided itself on its pacifist constitution. The country's future after WW II was defined by Article 9 which famously denounced aggression. But, in recent years security has become a paramount concern with increasing tensions around the status of nearby Taiwan and challenges from neighbouring countries. The Japanese are now renegotiating how best to defend themselves and their interests, while holding true to constitutional restraint. What that could mean for the future of Japan and its allies is of global interest and concern. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 18 Jun 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Japan has long prided itself on its pacifist constitution. The country's future after WW II was defined by Article 9 which famously denounced aggression. But, in recent years security has become a paramount concern with increasing tensions around the status of nearby Taiwan and challenges from neighbouring countries. The Japanese are now renegotiating how best to defend themselves and their interests, while holding true to constitutional restraint. What that could mean for the future of Japan and its allies is of global interest and concern. Japan has long prided itself on its pacifist constitution. The country's future after WW II was defined by Article 9 which famously denounced aggression. But, in recent years security has become a paramount concern with increasing tensions around the status of nearby Taiwan and challenges from neighbouring countries. The Japanese are now renegotiating how best to defend themselves and their interests, while holding true to constitutional restraint. What that could mean for the future of Japan and its allies is of global interest and concern. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Japan has long prided itself on its pacifist constitution. The country's future after WW II was defined by Article 9 which famously denounced aggression. But, in recent years security has become a paramount concern with increasing tensions around the status of nearby Taiwan and challenges from neighbouring countries. The Japanese are now renegotiating how best to defend themselves and their interests, while holding true to constitutional restraint. What that could mean for the future of Japan and its allies is of global interest and concern.

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]]> 1810 Can mining the ocean floor go ahead without regulations? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/regulation-for-sea-mining-transparent-oceans-ancient-tsunamis/102402544 Global permission to mine the ocean floor — the International Seabed Authority will soon meet and decide whether or not to allow seabed exploitation, and in what circumstances. We'll hear the arguments both for and against and get some background on this little known, but hugely consequential, international regulatory body. Also, will advanced technology one day make the oceans transparent? And if so, what will that mean for the future of submarines – a technology that relies on stealth and secrecy? And why studying ancient tsunamis could help protect us from future disasters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 11 Jun 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Global permission to mine the ocean floor — the International Seabed Authority will soon meet and decide whether or not to allow seabed exploitation, and in what circumstances. We'll hear the arguments both for and against and get some background on this little known, but hugely consequential, international regulatory body. Also, will advanced technology one day make the oceans transparent? And if so, what will that mean for the future of submarines – a technology that relies on stealth and secrecy? And why studying ancient tsunamis could help protect us from future disasters. Global permission to mine the ocean floor — the International Seabed Authority will soon meet and decide whether or not to allow seabed exploitation, and in what circumstances. We'll hear the arguments both for and against and get some background on this little known, but hugely consequential, international regulatory body. Also, will advanced technology one day make the oceans transparent? And if so, what will that mean for the future of submarines – a technology that relies on stealth and secrecy? And why studying ancient tsunamis could help protect us from future disasters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Global permission to mine the ocean floor — the International Seabed Authority will soon meet and decide whether or not to allow seabed exploitation, and in what circumstances. We'll hear the arguments both for and against and get some background on this little known, but hugely consequential, international regulatory body. Also, will advanced technology one day make the oceans transparent? And if so, what will that mean for the future of submarines – a technology that relies on stealth and secrecy? And why studying ancient tsunamis could help protect us from future disasters.

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]]> 1810 Designing buildings for disasters https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/crisis-architecture-designing-to-face-all-natural-disasters/102373562 How best to build our homes so they can better withstand natural disasters? It's not just about designing for floods or fire, for example, but creating structures to withstand multiple threats. And to cope with any change of temperature on top of that? Many countries are facing an increase in climate-related threats, and they're struggling to cope and adapt. In Australia, a review of the National Construction Code is underway and there are calls for higher minimum standards. Should such a crisis design be made mandatory? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 04 Jun 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia How best to build our homes so they can better withstand natural disasters? It's not just about designing for floods or fire, for example, but creating structures to withstand multiple threats. And to cope with any change of temperature on top of that? Many countries are facing an increase in climate-related threats, and they're struggling to cope and adapt. In Australia, a review of the National Construction Code is underway and there are calls for higher minimum standards. Should such a crisis design be made mandatory? How best to build our homes so they can better withstand natural disasters? It's not just about designing for floods or fire, for example, but creating structures to withstand multiple threats. And to cope with any change of temperature on top of that? Many countries are facing an increase in climate-related threats, and they're struggling to cope and adapt. In Australia, a review of the National Construction Code is underway and there are calls for higher minimum standards. Should such a crisis design be made mandatory? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How best to build our homes so they can better withstand natural disasters? It's not just about designing for floods or fire, for example, but creating structures to withstand multiple threats. And to cope with any change of temperature on top of that? Many countries are facing an increase in climate-related threats, and they're struggling to cope and adapt. In Australia, a review of the National Construction Code is underway and there are calls for higher minimum standards. Should such a crisis design be made mandatory?

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]]> 1810 Robots + bees = pollination https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/working-at-bee-level-to-improve-pollination/102343530 Robobees and building more hives – there's no easy solution to the global decline in bee population numbers and associated problems with pollination. Scientists around the world are seeking a better understanding of bee behaviour and how it can be modified. Their efforts involve using micro robotics to pamper the Queen bee and to improve the insect environment. A mix of the sophisticated and the very simple. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 28 May 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Robobees and building more hives – there's no easy solution to the global decline in bee population numbers and associated problems with pollination. Scientists around the world are seeking a better understanding of bee behaviour and how it can be modified. Their efforts involve using micro robotics to pamper the Queen bee and to improve the insect environment. A mix of the sophisticated and the very simple. Robobees and building more hives – there's no easy solution to the global decline in bee population numbers and associated problems with pollination. Scientists around the world are seeking a better understanding of bee behaviour and how it can be modified. Their efforts involve using micro robotics to pamper the Queen bee and to improve the insect environment. A mix of the sophisticated and the very simple. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Robobees and building more hives – there's no easy solution to the global decline in bee population numbers and associated problems with pollination. Scientists around the world are seeking a better understanding of bee behaviour and how it can be modified. Their efforts involve using micro robotics to pamper the Queen bee and to improve the insect environment. A mix of the sophisticated and the very simple.

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]]> 1810 Advanced AI – are we repeating the mistakes of the past? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/advanced-ai-are-we-repeating-the-mistakes-of-the-past-/102287066 Toby Walsh is an expert on Artificial Intelligence. He recently declined an offer to sign an open letter calling for a moratorium on the technology's further development, but he's no techno-utopian. In this feature interview, recorded at the Brisbane Writers Festival, he explains his position and warns the world risks repeating the mistakes made through the unregulated release of social media at the beginning of the century. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 21 May 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Toby Walsh is an expert on Artificial Intelligence. He recently declined an offer to sign an open letter calling for a moratorium on the technology's further development, but he's no techno-utopian. In this feature interview, recorded at the Brisbane Writers Festival, he explains his position and warns the world risks repeating the mistakes made through the unregulated release of social media at the beginning of the century. Toby Walsh is an expert on Artificial Intelligence. He recently declined an offer to sign an open letter calling for a moratorium on the technology's further development, but he's no techno-utopian. In this feature interview, recorded at the Brisbane Writers Festival, he explains his position and warns the world risks repeating the mistakes made through the unregulated release of social media at the beginning of the century. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Toby Walsh is an expert on Artificial Intelligence. He recently declined an offer to sign an open letter calling for a moratorium on the technology's further development, but he's no techno-utopian. In this feature interview, recorded at the Brisbane Writers Festival, he explains his position and warns the world risks repeating the mistakes made through the unregulated release of social media at the beginning of the century.

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]]> 2975 Falling in love with an app! When Anthropomorphism, making things too human like, goes wrong https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/falling-in-love-with-an-app-anthropomorphism/102262704 22-year old Effy lost her best friend and romantic pen pal unexpectedly. Liam was the victim of a change of algorithms — and he wasn't the only human-like chatbot to suddenly disappear. A timely reminder about the dangers of anthropomorphising technology. And what's lost when researchers take an anthropomorphic approach to the study of animals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 14 May 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia 22-year old Effy lost her best friend and romantic pen pal unexpectedly. Liam was the victim of a change of algorithms — and he wasn't the only human-like chatbot to suddenly disappear. A timely reminder about the dangers of anthropomorphising technology. And what's lost when researchers take an anthropomorphic approach to the study of animals. 22-year old Effy lost her best friend and romantic pen pal unexpectedly. Liam was the victim of a change of algorithms — and he wasn't the only human-like chatbot to suddenly disappear. A timely reminder about the dangers of anthropomorphising technology. And what's lost when researchers take an anthropomorphic approach to the study of animals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices 22-year old Effy lost her best friend and romantic pen pal unexpectedly. Liam was the victim of a change of algorithms — and he wasn't the only human-like chatbot to suddenly disappear. A timely reminder about the dangers of anthropomorphising technology. And what's lost when researchers take an anthropomorphic approach to the study of animals.

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]]> 1807 How the world could end – take two https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/taking-another-look-at-how-the-world-could-end/102232206 More than a decade ago scientist Dirk Schulze-Makuch plotted nine plausible ways by which humanity would cease to exist. Now he's revised his list and he joins us to share his updated predictions. Also, why some philosophers argue the planet would be enhanced by human extinction. And how doomsday scenarios from the Cold War still influence environmental thinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 07 May 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia More than a decade ago scientist Dirk Schulze-Makuch plotted nine plausible ways by which humanity would cease to exist. Now he's revised his list and he joins us to share his updated predictions. Also, why some philosophers argue the planet would be enhanced by human extinction. And how doomsday scenarios from the Cold War still influence environmental thinking. More than a decade ago scientist Dirk Schulze-Makuch plotted nine plausible ways by which humanity would cease to exist. Now he's revised his list and he joins us to share his updated predictions. Also, why some philosophers argue the planet would be enhanced by human extinction. And how doomsday scenarios from the Cold War still influence environmental thinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices More than a decade ago scientist Dirk Schulze-Makuch plotted nine plausible ways by which humanity would cease to exist. Now he's revised his list and he joins us to share his updated predictions. Also, why some philosophers argue the planet would be enhanced by human extinction. And how doomsday scenarios from the Cold War still influence environmental thinking.

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]]> 1807 We're all responsible for plastic pollution ─ and for cleaning it up https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/big-microplastic-survey-cargo-drones-wood-wide-web/102206858 Citizen scientists across the world have joined forces to map the microplastic crisis in our oceans. It comes as a UN agency moves to create a global treaty to end plastic pollution. Also, the idea that trees can communicate via extensive networks of underground fungi is increasingly popular, but is it correct? New research casts doubt on the extent of the claim. And, replacing cargo planes with drones – the dream of a European drone cargo airline Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 30 Apr 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Citizen scientists across the world have joined forces to map the microplastic crisis in our oceans. It comes as a UN agency moves to create a global treaty to end plastic pollution. Also, the idea that trees can communicate via extensive networks of underground fungi is increasingly popular, but is it correct? New research casts doubt on the extent of the claim. And, replacing cargo planes with drones – the dream of a European drone cargo airline Citizen scientists across the world have joined forces to map the microplastic crisis in our oceans. It comes as a UN agency moves to create a global treaty to end plastic pollution. Also, the idea that trees can communicate via extensive networks of underground fungi is increasingly popular, but is it correct? New research casts doubt on the extent of the claim. And, replacing cargo planes with drones – the dream of a European drone cargo airline Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Citizen scientists across the world have joined forces to map the microplastic crisis in our oceans. It comes as a UN agency moves to create a global treaty to end plastic pollution. Also, the idea that trees can communicate via extensive networks of underground fungi is increasingly popular, but is it correct? New research casts doubt on the extent of the claim. And, replacing cargo planes with drones – the dream of a European drone cargo airline

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]]> 1807 Correcting the record on China's economy https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/correcting-the-record-on-china-s-economy/102180690 Beijing likes to trumpet its economic clout. And as the second largest economy in the world there's no denying its power and influence. But the Chinese economy is a "black box" according to noted historian, Frank Dikötter, which even senior Chinese officials don't fully understand. It's an economic cauldron powered by massive debt, political spin and ideological dogma – a unique fusion of ersatz capitalism and rigid central planning. And unless we in the West get a better understanding of its complexity, global future prosperity is far from assured. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 23 Apr 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Beijing likes to trumpet its economic clout. And as the second largest economy in the world there's no denying its power and influence. But the Chinese economy is a "black box" according to noted historian, Frank Dikötter, which even senior Chinese officials don't fully understand. It's an economic cauldron powered by massive debt, political spin and ideological dogma – a unique fusion of ersatz capitalism and rigid central planning. And unless we in the West get a better understanding of its complexity, global future prosperity is far from assured. Beijing likes to trumpet its economic clout. And as the second largest economy in the world there's no denying its power and influence. But the Chinese economy is a "black box" according to noted historian, Frank Dikötter, which even senior Chinese officials don't fully understand. It's an economic cauldron powered by massive debt, political spin and ideological dogma – a unique fusion of ersatz capitalism and rigid central planning. And unless we in the West get a better understanding of its complexity, global future prosperity is far from assured. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Beijing likes to trumpet its economic clout. And as the second largest economy in the world there's no denying its power and influence. But the Chinese economy is a "black box" according to noted historian, Frank Dikötter, which even senior Chinese officials don't fully understand. It's an economic cauldron powered by massive debt, political spin and ideological dogma – a unique fusion of ersatz capitalism and rigid central planning. And unless we in the West get a better understanding of its complexity, global future prosperity is far from assured.

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]]> 1807 The sound of the stars https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-sound-of-the-stars/102173910 Understanding the universe isn't just about visually mapping celestial bodies, it's also about listening to the heavens. Data sonification takes astronomical data and turns it into sound. It could help find new patterns in the huge amount of digital information. And it's a way of enhancing astronomy by promoting greater engagement and accessibility — a musical mix of science, art and cold, hard data. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 16 Apr 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Understanding the universe isn't just about visually mapping celestial bodies, it's also about listening to the heavens. Data sonification takes astronomical data and turns it into sound. It could help find new patterns in the huge amount of digital information. And it's a way of enhancing astronomy by promoting greater engagement and accessibility — a musical mix of science, art and cold, hard data. Understanding the universe isn't just about visually mapping celestial bodies, it's also about listening to the heavens. Data sonification takes astronomical data and turns it into sound. It could help find new patterns in the huge amount of digital information. And it's a way of enhancing astronomy by promoting greater engagement and accessibility — a musical mix of science, art and cold, hard data. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Understanding the universe isn't just about visually mapping celestial bodies, it's also about listening to the heavens. Data sonification takes astronomical data and turns it into sound. It could help find new patterns in the huge amount of digital information. And it's a way of enhancing astronomy by promoting greater engagement and accessibility — a musical mix of science, art and cold, hard data.

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]]> 1807 Food security in a precarious world https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/food-security-in-a-precarious-world/102171214 As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 09 Apr 2023 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage. As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage.

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]]> 1805 Will future generations turn away from alcohol? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/will-future-generations-turn-away-from-alcohol-/102119836 Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 02 Apr 2023 00:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable? Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are attitudes towards drinking changing as we learn more about the impact alcohol can have on our bodies? Drinking has been part of our social and cultural activities for centuries. But cultural norms appear to be shifting. So, could alcohol go the way of cigarettes and become socially unacceptable?

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]]> 1807 The future threat from ancient viruses https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-future-threat-from-ancient-viruses/102091260 The Arctic permafrost is melting, and ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, and it's only one of several possible sources for the next pandemic. But scientists and researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 26 Mar 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The Arctic permafrost is melting, and ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, and it's only one of several possible sources for the next pandemic. But scientists and researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics. The Arctic permafrost is melting, and ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, and it's only one of several possible sources for the next pandemic. But scientists and researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The Arctic permafrost is melting, and ancient viruses and bacteria are gradually being freed from the ice. The risks are significant, and it's only one of several possible sources for the next pandemic. But scientists and researchers are working to identify potential threats and better prepare the world for future pandemics.

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]]> 1807 Introducing "brubery" — bribery's other half https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/introducing-brubery-bribery-s-other-half/102057938 Bribery involves using money to try and buy a person's favour, but what do you call it when someone uses their resources not to win someone over, but to destroy their political career? Until now, it's had no name. But James D'Angelo, from the Congressional Research Institute in the US, has just invented one . He calls it "brubery" – and it's threatening the very future of Western politics, he says. Also, high tech largess or digital colonialism ? Seeing global tech's expansion from a very different set of eyes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 19 Mar 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Bribery involves using money to try and buy a person's favour, but what do you call it when someone uses their resources not to win someone over, but to destroy their political career? Until now, it's had no name. But James D'Angelo, from the Congressional Research Institute in the US, has just invented one . He calls it "brubery" – and it's threatening the very future of Western politics, he says. Also, high tech largess or digital colonialism ? Seeing global tech's expansion from a very different set of eyes. Bribery involves using money to try and buy a person's favour, but what do you call it when someone uses their resources not to win someone over, but to destroy their political career? Until now, it's had no name. But James D'Angelo, from the Congressional Research Institute in the US, has just invented one . He calls it "brubery" – and it's threatening the very future of Western politics, he says. Also, high tech largess or digital colonialism ? Seeing global tech's expansion from a very different set of eyes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Bribery involves using money to try and buy a person's favour, but what do you call it when someone uses their resources not to win someone over, but to destroy their political career? Until now, it's had no name. But James D'Angelo, from the Congressional Research Institute in the US, has just invented one . He calls it "brubery" – and it's threatening the very future of Western politics, he says. Also, high tech largess or digital colonialism ? Seeing global tech's expansion from a very different set of eyes.

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]]> 1809 Some home truths about declining research productivity, innovation and disruption https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/declining-research-productivity-innovation-and-disruption/102028498 Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 12 Mar 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment. Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Our modern understanding of innovation isn't modern at all, it turns out. Historian, Iwan Rhys Morus, says we're being held back by Victorian-era notions of the future as a land to be conquered; and the lone-genius inventor as the standard bearer of technological advance. Which might explain why research productivity is now sharply declining, despite a substantial rise in research investment.

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]]> 1807 Embracing serendipity and breaking free of algorithmic shackles  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/embracing-serendipity-and-breaking-free-of-algorithmic-shackles/101999936 Clive Thompson has invented a new search tool called the Weird Old Book Finder. It's about… finding weird old books, what else? It's also about embracing serendipity and breaking free of algorithmic shackles. Also, why the development of Google Glass was both a cautionary tale and a punchline; and the vulnerabilities of super fast finance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 05 Mar 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Clive Thompson has invented a new search tool called the Weird Old Book Finder. It's about… finding weird old books, what else? It's also about embracing serendipity and breaking free of algorithmic shackles. Also, why the development of Google Glass was both a cautionary tale and a punchline; and the vulnerabilities of super fast finance. Clive Thompson has invented a new search tool called the Weird Old Book Finder. It's about… finding weird old books, what else? It's also about embracing serendipity and breaking free of algorithmic shackles. Also, why the development of Google Glass was both a cautionary tale and a punchline; and the vulnerabilities of super fast finance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Clive Thompson has invented a new search tool called the Weird Old Book Finder. It's about… finding weird old books, what else? It's also about embracing serendipity and breaking free of algorithmic shackles. Also, why the development of Google Glass was both a cautionary tale and a punchline; and the vulnerabilities of super fast finance.

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]]> 1808 ChatGPT — the hype, the limitations and the potential https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/chatgpt-the-hype-the-limitations-and-the-potential/101968284 ChatGPT is a controversial new language assistant powered by AI. It can write essays, do coding and even structure complex research briefs, all in a matter of seconds. To its detractors ChatGPT and other AI-text generating tools represents the beginning of the end of human creativity and a future of universal plagiarism. To the less exuberant, it's a sophisticated new educational tool that has significant flaws and needs to be used judiciously. It's also likely to force a rethink of how we assess students and what it means to be genuinely creative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 26 Feb 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia ChatGPT is a controversial new language assistant powered by AI. It can write essays, do coding and even structure complex research briefs, all in a matter of seconds. To its detractors ChatGPT and other AI-text generating tools represents the beginning of the end of human creativity and a future of universal plagiarism. To the less exuberant, it's a sophisticated new educational tool that has significant flaws and needs to be used judiciously. It's also likely to force a rethink of how we assess students and what it means to be genuinely creative. ChatGPT is a controversial new language assistant powered by AI. It can write essays, do coding and even structure complex research briefs, all in a matter of seconds. To its detractors ChatGPT and other AI-text generating tools represents the beginning of the end of human creativity and a future of universal plagiarism. To the less exuberant, it's a sophisticated new educational tool that has significant flaws and needs to be used judiciously. It's also likely to force a rethink of how we assess students and what it means to be genuinely creative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices ChatGPT is a controversial new language assistant powered by AI. It can write essays, do coding and even structure complex research briefs, all in a matter of seconds. To its detractors ChatGPT and other AI-text generating tools represents the beginning of the end of human creativity and a future of universal plagiarism. To the less exuberant, it's a sophisticated new educational tool that has significant flaws and needs to be used judiciously. It's also likely to force a rethink of how we assess students and what it means to be genuinely creative.

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]]> 1807 Deep Fakes and moral panic https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/deep-fakes-and-moral-panic/101948152 Deep fake videos and audio are growing in sophistication and the technology to make them is readily available online. Many fear they damage our ability to tell truth from fiction and are a threat to democracy. In this episode we provide a reality check. We also look at research into how such fakes can be detected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 19 Feb 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Deep fake videos and audio are growing in sophistication and the technology to make them is readily available online. Many fear they damage our ability to tell truth from fiction and are a threat to democracy. In this episode we provide a reality check. We also look at research into how such fakes can be detected. Deep fake videos and audio are growing in sophistication and the technology to make them is readily available online. Many fear they damage our ability to tell truth from fiction and are a threat to democracy. In this episode we provide a reality check. We also look at research into how such fakes can be detected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Deep fake videos and audio are growing in sophistication and the technology to make them is readily available online. Many fear they damage our ability to tell truth from fiction and are a threat to democracy. In this episode we provide a reality check. We also look at research into how such fakes can be detected.

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]]> 1808 Managerialism and our obsession with hierarchy https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/managerialism-and-our-obsession-with-hierarchy/101919764 Managerialism is a Neo-liberal philosophy that critics accuse of bloating both the public and private sectors with unnecessary management. It's also accused of having bred a separate highly-paid management class, devoid of expertise. But is it too late to curb its influence and make organisations less hierarchical? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 12 Feb 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Managerialism is a Neo-liberal philosophy that critics accuse of bloating both the public and private sectors with unnecessary management. It's also accused of having bred a separate highly-paid management class, devoid of expertise. But is it too late to curb its influence and make organisations less hierarchical? Managerialism is a Neo-liberal philosophy that critics accuse of bloating both the public and private sectors with unnecessary management. It's also accused of having bred a separate highly-paid management class, devoid of expertise. But is it too late to curb its influence and make organisations less hierarchical? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Managerialism is a Neo-liberal philosophy that critics accuse of bloating both the public and private sectors with unnecessary management.

It's also accused of having bred a separate highly-paid management class, devoid of expertise. But is it too late to curb its influence and make organisations less hierarchical?

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]]> 1807 A global pandemic treaty; communication vulnerabilities; and talking to the animals https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/global-pandemic-treaty-communication-talking-to-the-animals/14139602 The world will soon have a universal pandemic treaty, but will all countries sign on and will it prevent future lockdowns? Also, how vulnerable are our undersea cables? And could technology one day allow us to talk with animals? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 05 Feb 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The world will soon have a universal pandemic treaty, but will all countries sign on and will it prevent future lockdowns? Also, how vulnerable are our undersea cables? And could technology one day allow us to talk with animals? The world will soon have a universal pandemic treaty, but will all countries sign on and will it prevent future lockdowns? Also, how vulnerable are our undersea cables? And could technology one day allow us to talk with animals? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The world will soon have a universal pandemic treaty, but will all countries sign on and will it prevent future lockdowns? Also, how vulnerable are our undersea cables? And could technology one day allow us to talk with animals?

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]]> 1806 The climate change "winners" https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-climate-change-winners-/14137468 It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 29 Jan 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long? It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It might be an uncomfortable idea for many, but in the short term climate change will produce "winners" as well as losers. Some countries, companies, communities and species will actually benefit from a warming world. But in what ways and for how long?

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]]> 1807 Coming to terms with noise https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/coming-to-terms-with-noise/14101744 When the global pandemic struck the world’s major cities were plunged into silence. But were they? New research casts doubt on just how quiet it really got when people were suddenly forced from the streets. It adds to our complex understanding of noise and sound and how both will shape our future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 22 Jan 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia When the global pandemic struck the world’s major cities were plunged into silence. But were they? New research casts doubt on just how quiet it really got when people were suddenly forced from the streets. It adds to our complex understanding of noise and sound and how both will shape our future. When the global pandemic struck the world’s major cities were plunged into silence. But were they? New research casts doubt on just how quiet it really got when people were suddenly forced from the streets. It adds to our complex understanding of noise and sound and how both will shape our future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When the global pandemic struck the world’s major cities were plunged into silence. But were they? New research casts doubt on just how quiet it really got when people were suddenly forced from the streets. It adds to our complex understanding of noise and sound and how both will shape our future.

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]]> 1807 Should we really aim for sustainable development? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/should-we-really-aim-for-sustainable-development/14100716 The terms “sustainability” and “sustainable development” are now so commonplace as to be meaningless – according to the sceptics. Worse still, a focus on sustainability, they say, can actually mask the very real problems we have in dealing with climate change and managing the world’s diminishing resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 15 Jan 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The terms “sustainability” and “sustainable development” are now so commonplace as to be meaningless – according to the sceptics. Worse still, a focus on sustainability, they say, can actually mask the very real problems we have in dealing with climate change and managing the world’s diminishing resources. The terms “sustainability” and “sustainable development” are now so commonplace as to be meaningless – according to the sceptics. Worse still, a focus on sustainability, they say, can actually mask the very real problems we have in dealing with climate change and managing the world’s diminishing resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The terms “sustainability” and “sustainable development” are now so commonplace as to be meaningless – according to the sceptics. Worse still, a focus on sustainability, they say, can actually mask the very real problems we have in dealing with climate change and managing the world’s diminishing resources.

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]]> 1806 Fashion’s fast future https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/fashion-s-fast-future/14100718 Fashion is no longer du jour – of the day – it’s of the second. Online platforms are using real-time data and analytics to micro-target what we buy and what we wear. At best, it’s a form of hyper-personalisation, matching people to their clothing preferences. At worst, it risks turbo-charging our already fast fashion industry. But there are also efforts underway to rein-in the waste and make fabrics from more environmentally-friendly materials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 08 Jan 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Fashion is no longer du jour – of the day – it’s of the second. Online platforms are using real-time data and analytics to micro-target what we buy and what we wear. At best, it’s a form of hyper-personalisation, matching people to their clothing preferences. At worst, it risks turbo-charging our already fast fashion industry. But there are also efforts underway to rein-in the waste and make fabrics from more environmentally-friendly materials. Fashion is no longer du jour – of the day – it’s of the second. Online platforms are using real-time data and analytics to micro-target what we buy and what we wear. At best, it’s a form of hyper-personalisation, matching people to their clothing preferences. At worst, it risks turbo-charging our already fast fashion industry. But there are also efforts underway to rein-in the waste and make fabrics from more environmentally-friendly materials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fashion is no longer du jour – of the day – it’s of the second. Online platforms are using real-time data and analytics to micro-target what we buy and what we wear. At best, it’s a form of hyper-personalisation, matching people to their clothing preferences. At worst, it risks turbo-charging our already fast fashion industry. But there are also efforts underway to rein-in the waste and make fabrics from more environmentally-friendly materials.

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]]> 1807 The future of satire is no laughing matter https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-future-of-satire-is-no-laughing-matter/14100720 Satire is society’s release valve and it allows us to reflect on just about anything. It’s been around for thousands of years, but social media, shameless leaders and an appetite for outrage are all having an impact on this ancient form of social commentary. So is satire's power dwindling? Or is it evolving for the future? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 01 Jan 2023 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Satire is society’s release valve and it allows us to reflect on just about anything. It’s been around for thousands of years, but social media, shameless leaders and an appetite for outrage are all having an impact on this ancient form of social commentary. So is satire's power dwindling? Or is it evolving for the future? Satire is society’s release valve and it allows us to reflect on just about anything. It’s been around for thousands of years, but social media, shameless leaders and an appetite for outrage are all having an impact on this ancient form of social commentary. So is satire's power dwindling? Or is it evolving for the future? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Satire is society’s release valve and it allows us to reflect on just about anything. It’s been around for thousands of years, but social media, shameless leaders and an appetite for outrage are all having an impact on this ancient form of social commentary. So is satire's power dwindling? Or is it evolving for the future?

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]]> 1806 Forgetting, not memory, moves us forward https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/forgetting-not-memory-moves-us-forward/14100724 Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 25 Dec 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function.  Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Forgetting is the only safe response to the world's problems, from a geopolitical perspective, according to author and journalist David Rieff. Sometimes it’s too dangerous to remember. And forgetting is also a good thing in your personal life, say scientists. It moves us forward. The science of memory is giving way to the science of forgetting. Forgetting used to be seen as a failure of the brain, but new research suggests it’s a crucial part of the way our minds function. 

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]]> 1807 A Right to Disconnect ... from work https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-right-to-disconnect-from-work/14101746 A global push is underway to try and install a Right to Disconnect – allowing workers to strike a healthier balance between work-time and own-time. Working from home during the pandemic arguably raised expectations that people were available 'around the clock'. But did it in fact help spark a reassessment of how we work? Various organisations and governments are also exploring the idea of a four-day week — prioritising productivity over office hours. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 18 Dec 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia A global push is underway to try and install a Right to Disconnect – allowing workers to strike a healthier balance between work-time and own-time. Working from home during the pandemic arguably raised expectations that people were available 'around the clock'. But did it in fact help spark a reassessment of how we work? Various organisations and governments are also exploring the idea of a four-day week — prioritising productivity over office hours. A global push is underway to try and install a Right to Disconnect – allowing workers to strike a healthier balance between work-time and own-time. Working from home during the pandemic arguably raised expectations that people were available 'around the clock'. But did it in fact help spark a reassessment of how we work? Various organisations and governments are also exploring the idea of a four-day week — prioritising productivity over office hours. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices A global push is underway to try and install a Right to Disconnect – allowing workers to strike a healthier balance between work-time and own-time. Working from home during the pandemic arguably raised expectations that people were available 'around the clock'. But did it in fact help spark a reassessment of how we work? Various organisations and governments are also exploring the idea of a four-day week — prioritising productivity over office hours.

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]]> 1807 The cultural impact of streaming; and the "digital horder" within https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-cultural-impact-of-streaming-and-the-digital-horder-/14113648 Australian writers and screen producers fear a significant cultural loss unless US streaming services are forced to increase local content. Quotas of up to 30 per cent exist in Europe and Canada, so why is Australia lagging behind? Also, "digital horders" – why many of us find it so difficult to have an online purge. And why we need to put soil at the centre of future conservation efforts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 11 Dec 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Australian writers and screen producers fear a significant cultural loss unless US streaming services are forced to increase local content. Quotas of up to 30 per cent exist in Europe and Canada, so why is Australia lagging behind? Also, "digital horders" – why many of us find it so difficult to have an online purge. And why we need to put soil at the centre of future conservation efforts. Australian writers and screen producers fear a significant cultural loss unless US streaming services are forced to increase local content. Quotas of up to 30 per cent exist in Europe and Canada, so why is Australia lagging behind? Also, "digital horders" – why many of us find it so difficult to have an online purge. And why we need to put soil at the centre of future conservation efforts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Australian writers and screen producers fear a significant cultural loss unless US streaming services are forced to increase local content. Quotas of up to 30 per cent exist in Europe and Canada, so why is Australia lagging behind? Also, "digital horders" – why many of us find it so difficult to have an online purge. And why we need to put soil at the centre of future conservation efforts.

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]]> 1807 The trouble with tech-driven farming https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-trouble-with-tech-driven-farming/14110758 New technologies are transforming agriculture, but getting farmers to experiment with different tech combinations remains an issue. A technologically-infused approach can bring benefits, but it also carries risks. In the developing world it can sometimes undermine traditional farming practices and increase inequality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 04 Dec 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia New technologies are transforming agriculture, but getting farmers to experiment with different tech combinations remains an issue. A technologically-infused approach can bring benefits, but it also carries risks. In the developing world it can sometimes undermine traditional farming practices and increase inequality. New technologies are transforming agriculture, but getting farmers to experiment with different tech combinations remains an issue. A technologically-infused approach can bring benefits, but it also carries risks. In the developing world it can sometimes undermine traditional farming practices and increase inequality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices New technologies are transforming agriculture, but getting farmers to experiment with different tech combinations remains an issue. A technologically-infused approach can bring benefits, but it also carries risks. In the developing world it can sometimes undermine traditional farming practices and increase inequality.

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]]> 1807 Noise: the invisible ocean pollutant https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/noise-the-invisible-ocean-pollutant/14107850 We used to think our oceans were largely silent but sound is one of the most important senses for marine life. It helps animals feed, breed, communicate and navigate. But human made underwater noise is getting in the way and is now a major global pollutant. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 27 Nov 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia We used to think our oceans were largely silent but sound is one of the most important senses for marine life. It helps animals feed, breed, communicate and navigate. But human made underwater noise is getting in the way and is now a major global pollutant. We used to think our oceans were largely silent but sound is one of the most important senses for marine life. It helps animals feed, breed, communicate and navigate. But human made underwater noise is getting in the way and is now a major global pollutant. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We used to think our oceans were largely silent but sound is one of the most important senses for marine life. It helps animals feed, breed, communicate and navigate. But human made underwater noise is getting in the way and is now a major global pollutant.

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]]> 1806 Should individuals bear the largest burden for climate action? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/should-individuals-bear-the-largest-burden-for-climate-action-/14100722 It's a common refrain: we all have a responsibility to deal with climate change. But does putting the onus on individuals risk allowing governments and businesses to avoid responsibility? What is the right balance between an individual and a systemic approach to climate action — and how much do the two intertwine? And how do we get beyond ideology in our communications around climate action? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 20 Nov 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It's a common refrain: we all have a responsibility to deal with climate change. But does putting the onus on individuals risk allowing governments and businesses to avoid responsibility? What is the right balance between an individual and a systemic approach to climate action — and how much do the two intertwine? And how do we get beyond ideology in our communications around climate action? It's a common refrain: we all have a responsibility to deal with climate change. But does putting the onus on individuals risk allowing governments and businesses to avoid responsibility? What is the right balance between an individual and a systemic approach to climate action — and how much do the two intertwine? And how do we get beyond ideology in our communications around climate action? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It's a common refrain: we all have a responsibility to deal with climate change. But does putting the onus on individuals risk allowing governments and businesses to avoid responsibility? What is the right balance between an individual and a systemic approach to climate action — and how much do the two intertwine? And how do we get beyond ideology in our communications around climate action?

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]]> 1859 Why corporations need to think more about society and less about profit https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/corporations-need-to-think-more-about-society/14099476 Do corporations have a role in promoting the common good? Legal expert William Magnuson says they once did and now need to rediscover their true social purpose. He mounts a counterintuitive argument for why big business should think less about money and more about society. Also, new research on the effectiveness of Carbon, Capture and Storage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 13 Nov 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Do corporations have a role in promoting the common good? Legal expert William Magnuson says they once did and now need to rediscover their true social purpose. He mounts a counterintuitive argument for why big business should think less about money and more about society. Also, new research on the effectiveness of Carbon, Capture and Storage. Do corporations have a role in promoting the common good? Legal expert William Magnuson says they once did and now need to rediscover their true social purpose. He mounts a counterintuitive argument for why big business should think less about money and more about society. Also, new research on the effectiveness of Carbon, Capture and Storage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Do corporations have a role in promoting the common good? Legal expert William Magnuson says they once did and now need to rediscover their true social purpose. He mounts a counterintuitive argument for why big business should think less about money and more about society. Also, new research on the effectiveness of Carbon, Capture and Storage.

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]]> 1860 The positive side of monitoring https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-positive-side-of-monitoring/14095228 Surveillance has become mainstream in the 21st century. It’s now so ubiquitous that many of us no longer notice its intrusion in our personal lives. But not all forms of monitoring are designed to exploit and/or contain. In this episode we look at several interesting monitoring technologies designed to assist and heal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 06 Nov 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Surveillance has become mainstream in the 21st century. It’s now so ubiquitous that many of us no longer notice its intrusion in our personal lives. But not all forms of monitoring are designed to exploit and/or contain. In this episode we look at several interesting monitoring technologies designed to assist and heal. Surveillance has become mainstream in the 21st century. It’s now so ubiquitous that many of us no longer notice its intrusion in our personal lives. But not all forms of monitoring are designed to exploit and/or contain. In this episode we look at several interesting monitoring technologies designed to assist and heal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Surveillance has become mainstream in the 21st century. It’s now so ubiquitous that many of us no longer notice its intrusion in our personal lives. But not all forms of monitoring are designed to exploit and/or contain. In this episode we look at several interesting monitoring technologies designed to assist and heal.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1807 The complexities of oversimplification https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-complexities-of-oversimplification/14091840 Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 30 Oct 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective. Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Have technologists lost the art of keeping it simple? Do the devices they design actually make our lives more complicated, not less? Striving for simplicity could positively impact many aspects of modern life. But oversimplification risks stereotyping individuals and confusing our sense of historical perspective.

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]]> 1807 Community electricity grids and building better batteries https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/community-electricity-grids-and-building-better-batteries/14087850 When the consumers of power also become its generators a whole new level of complexity opens up. The transition from fossil fuels means completely rethinking our traditional systems of energy storage and distribution. Also, the new Australian battery that could put an end to our dependence on lithium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 23 Oct 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia When the consumers of power also become its generators a whole new level of complexity opens up. The transition from fossil fuels means completely rethinking our traditional systems of energy storage and distribution. Also, the new Australian battery that could put an end to our dependence on lithium. When the consumers of power also become its generators a whole new level of complexity opens up. The transition from fossil fuels means completely rethinking our traditional systems of energy storage and distribution. Also, the new Australian battery that could put an end to our dependence on lithium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices When the consumers of power also become its generators a whole new level of complexity opens up. The transition from fossil fuels means completely rethinking our traditional systems of energy storage and distribution. Also, the new Australian battery that could put an end to our dependence on lithium.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1807 The Great Regression and the "kidification" of adulthood https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-great-regression-and-the-kidification-of-adulthood/14079642 Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 16 Oct 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”. Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Many commentators bemoan the adolescent nature of modern society. Adults, they suggest, are acting like juveniles and thereby eroding our culture and destroying our politics. We hear two arguments to the contrary. Also,  philosopher  William MacAskill on his new book “What We Owe The Future”.

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]]> 1807 New ways to move about cities https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/new-ways-to-move-about-cities/14073416 The way we are getting around cities is changing. There’s strong developer competition in the flying taxis market; the overall size of vehicles is getting smaller as we transition from petrol to electric; and on-demand public transport is on the rise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 09 Oct 2022 01:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The way we are getting around cities is changing. There’s strong developer competition in the flying taxis market; the overall size of vehicles is getting smaller as we transition from petrol to electric; and on-demand public transport is on the rise. The way we are getting around cities is changing. There’s strong developer competition in the flying taxis market; the overall size of vehicles is getting smaller as we transition from petrol to electric; and on-demand public transport is on the rise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The way we are getting around cities is changing. There’s strong developer competition in the flying taxis market; the overall size of vehicles is getting smaller as we transition from petrol to electric; and on-demand public transport is on the rise.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Understanding tech-facilitated abuse; and problems in space https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/understanding-tech-facilitated-abuse-and-problems-in-space/14067674 Abuse facilitated by digital technology is on the rise. Abuse is abuse, no matter who commits it and what form it takes, but we need to better understand the peculiarities of this specific kind of abuse. New research in Australia suggests that many of us are the perpetrators as well as the victims. Also, regulating rocket launches and minimising space pollution – low Earth orbit may be reaching a tipping point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 02 Oct 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Abuse facilitated by digital technology is on the rise. Abuse is abuse, no matter who commits it and what form it takes, but we need to better understand the peculiarities of this specific kind of abuse. New research in Australia suggests that many of us are the perpetrators as well as the victims. Also, regulating rocket launches and minimising space pollution – low Earth orbit may be reaching a tipping point. Abuse facilitated by digital technology is on the rise. Abuse is abuse, no matter who commits it and what form it takes, but we need to better understand the peculiarities of this specific kind of abuse. New research in Australia suggests that many of us are the perpetrators as well as the victims. Also, regulating rocket launches and minimising space pollution – low Earth orbit may be reaching a tipping point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Abuse facilitated by digital technology is on the rise. Abuse is abuse, no matter who commits it and what form it takes, but we need to better understand the peculiarities of this specific kind of abuse. New research in Australia suggests that many of us are the perpetrators as well as the victims. Also, regulating rocket launches and minimising space pollution – low Earth orbit may be reaching a tipping point.

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]]> 1808 Food security in a precarious world https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/food-security-in-a-precarious-world/14058266 As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 25 Sep 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage. As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices As food security issues increase across the world, expenditure on agri-food research and development is going the other way – in fact, funding in some western countries is now back at 1980s levels. We also hear about a refrigeration initiative in Rwanda that could help increase food nutrition levels in the developing world and significantly cut food wastage.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1808 Have data breaches become just another cost of business? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/have-data-breaches-become-just-another-cost-of-business-/14050852 Data breaches are on the rise, and it seems social media is a growing point of vulnerability. The consequences aren’t just financial, in some cases lives are at risk. People are also becoming increasingly wary about corporations gathering their personal data - as seen by the fate of Google's envisaged futuristic smart city development in Toronto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 18 Sep 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Data breaches are on the rise, and it seems social media is a growing point of vulnerability. The consequences aren’t just financial, in some cases lives are at risk. People are also becoming increasingly wary about corporations gathering their personal data - as seen by the fate of Google's envisaged futuristic smart city development in Toronto. Data breaches are on the rise, and it seems social media is a growing point of vulnerability. The consequences aren’t just financial, in some cases lives are at risk. People are also becoming increasingly wary about corporations gathering their personal data - as seen by the fate of Google's envisaged futuristic smart city development in Toronto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Data breaches are on the rise, and it seems social media is a growing point of vulnerability. The consequences aren’t just financial, in some cases lives are at risk.

People are also becoming increasingly wary about corporations gathering their personal data - as seen by the fate of Google's envisaged futuristic smart city development in Toronto.

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]]> 1808 Air conditioning: keeping us cool but making the planet hotter https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/airconditioning-keeping-us-cool-but-making-the-planet-hotter-/14043782 Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sat, 10 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives? Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Around two billion air conditioners are currently in use across the globe but the amount of electricity they use is not sustainable, so what are some alternatives?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 The opportunity costs of corporate welfare https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/future-tense-the-opportunity-costs-of-corporate-welfare/14035884 Public money is being used to bankroll already wealthy private corporations. So, is there any real benefit to taxpayers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sat, 03 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Public money is being used to bankroll already wealthy private corporations. So, is there any real benefit to taxpayers? Public money is being used to bankroll already wealthy private corporations. So, is there any real benefit to taxpayers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Public money is being used to bankroll already wealthy private corporations. So, is there any real benefit to taxpayers?

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]]> 1806 Xenobots - the tiny robots with enormous potential https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/xenobots-the-tiny-robots-with-enormous-potential/14030186 They’re small, robotic in nature and formed from living frog cells. Xenobots could play an important part in future health care treatments.  But whether or not they represent a new form of life is open to debate. And also, how young people access news content – it’s complicated! We hear about the latest research from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 28 Aug 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia They’re small, robotic in nature and formed from living frog cells. Xenobots could play an important part in future health care treatments.  But whether or not they represent a new form of life is open to debate. And also, how young people access news content – it’s complicated! We hear about the latest research from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism. They’re small, robotic in nature and formed from living frog cells. Xenobots could play an important part in future health care treatments.  But whether or not they represent a new form of life is open to debate. And also, how young people access news content – it’s complicated! We hear about the latest research from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices They’re small, robotic in nature and formed from living frog cells. Xenobots could play an important part in future health care treatments.  But whether or not they represent a new form of life is open to debate. And also, how young people access news content – it’s complicated! We hear about the latest research from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 How ancient trees could help in the fight against climate change https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/how-ancient-trees-could-help-in-the-fight-against-climate-change/14021644 Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 21 Aug 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part. Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Unlike animals, trees don't have a biological clock, under ideal conditions they can live for thousands of years. Scientists say understanding how ancient trees have survived could help us protect forests from the ravages of climate change. But working out how to propagate them is the tricky part.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Airships return to the skies and a serious problem that could cripple long-range space travel https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/airships-return-to-the-skies-and-some-serious-problems-with-spa/13998162 They were once the very symbol of modernity, but over the past eighty years, Airships have become objects of curiosity and nostalgia. Now, several new airship ventures look likely to put the zip back into zeppelins. Also, why our bones could be the greatest barrier to colonising Mars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 14 Aug 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia They were once the very symbol of modernity, but over the past eighty years, Airships have become objects of curiosity and nostalgia. Now, several new airship ventures look likely to put the zip back into zeppelins. Also, why our bones could be the greatest barrier to colonising Mars. They were once the very symbol of modernity, but over the past eighty years, Airships have become objects of curiosity and nostalgia. Now, several new airship ventures look likely to put the zip back into zeppelins. Also, why our bones could be the greatest barrier to colonising Mars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices They were once the very symbol of modernity, but over the past eighty years, Airships have become objects of curiosity and nostalgia. Now, several new airship ventures look likely to put the zip back into zeppelins. Also, why our bones could be the greatest barrier to colonising Mars.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 The strange case of the trees that grow metal and how to harvest them https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-strange-case-of-the-trees-that-grow-metal-and-how-to-harves/13982534 Agromining is a new process for extracting large quantities of metals such as cobalt and nickel from the sap and leaves of rare plants known as hyperaccumulators. Australian scientists have already established a test farm in Malaysia and it’s hoped the technology will one day provide poor communities with a new source of income, while also helping to rehabilitate former mining sites. Also, why do some people get sick after using Virtual Reality and is that holding back the technology? And a new approach to data storage and processing called Edge Computing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 07 Aug 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Agromining is a new process for extracting large quantities of metals such as cobalt and nickel from the sap and leaves of rare plants known as hyperaccumulators. Australian scientists have already established a test farm in Malaysia and it’s hoped the technology will one day provide poor communities with a new source of income, while also helping to rehabilitate former mining sites. Also, why do some people get sick after using Virtual Reality and is that holding back the technology? And a new approach to data storage and processing called Edge Computing. Agromining is a new process for extracting large quantities of metals such as cobalt and nickel from the sap and leaves of rare plants known as hyperaccumulators. Australian scientists have already established a test farm in Malaysia and it’s hoped the technology will one day provide poor communities with a new source of income, while also helping to rehabilitate former mining sites. Also, why do some people get sick after using Virtual Reality and is that holding back the technology? And a new approach to data storage and processing called Edge Computing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Agromining is a new process for extracting large quantities of metals such as cobalt and nickel from the sap and leaves of rare plants known as hyperaccumulators. Australian scientists have already established a test farm in Malaysia and it’s hoped the technology will one day provide poor communities with a new source of income, while also helping to rehabilitate former mining sites. Also, why do some people get sick after using Virtual Reality and is that holding back the technology? And a new approach to data storage and processing called Edge Computing.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1804 eDNA monitoring; 'telehealth' for animals; and using animals as early warning system for disasters https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/edna-monitoring-telehealth-animals-using-animals-as-early-warni/13982518 Scientists have perfected a system for better sampling animal DNA in the wild. The new process promises a less-invasive way of measuring biodiversity. We also look at the predictive powers of animals and how tracking their movements enmass could help foretell impending disasters. And how remote health monitoring technology can help wildlife and livestock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 31 Jul 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Scientists have perfected a system for better sampling animal DNA in the wild. The new process promises a less-invasive way of measuring biodiversity. We also look at the predictive powers of animals and how tracking their movements enmass could help foretell impending disasters. And how remote health monitoring technology can help wildlife and livestock. Scientists have perfected a system for better sampling animal DNA in the wild. The new process promises a less-invasive way of measuring biodiversity. We also look at the predictive powers of animals and how tracking their movements enmass could help foretell impending disasters. And how remote health monitoring technology can help wildlife and livestock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Scientists have perfected a system for better sampling animal DNA in the wild. The new process promises a less-invasive way of measuring biodiversity. We also look at the predictive powers of animals and how tracking their movements enmass could help foretell impending disasters. And how remote health monitoring technology can help wildlife and livestock.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 The Digital Self, Web3 and reclaiming your online identity https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-digital-self,-web3-and-reclaiming-your-online-identity/13978032 How is our sense of identity changing as our online and offline experiences increasingly merge? What grounds a person’s online persona (or personas) to the physical world? And is such a tie important? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 24 Jul 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia How is our sense of identity changing as our online and offline experiences increasingly merge? What grounds a person’s online persona (or personas) to the physical world? And is such a tie important? How is our sense of identity changing as our online and offline experiences increasingly merge? What grounds a person’s online persona (or personas) to the physical world? And is such a tie important? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How is our sense of identity changing as our online and offline experiences increasingly merge? What grounds a person’s online persona (or personas) to the physical world? And is such a tie important?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 The real worth of net zero is debateable https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-real-worth-of-net-zero-is-debateable/13958038 Net Zero isn’t just a climate target, it’s become a badge of commitment in the global effort to bring down Greenhouse Gas emissions. But its real worth is debateable, with some environmentalists and climate scientists arguing it’s now an impediment to genuine change. Treating Net Zero as an end in itself, they say, has to stop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 17 Jul 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Net Zero isn’t just a climate target, it’s become a badge of commitment in the global effort to bring down Greenhouse Gas emissions. But its real worth is debateable, with some environmentalists and climate scientists arguing it’s now an impediment to genuine change. Treating Net Zero as an end in itself, they say, has to stop. Net Zero isn’t just a climate target, it’s become a badge of commitment in the global effort to bring down Greenhouse Gas emissions. But its real worth is debateable, with some environmentalists and climate scientists arguing it’s now an impediment to genuine change. Treating Net Zero as an end in itself, they say, has to stop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Net Zero isn’t just a climate target, it’s become a badge of commitment in the global effort to bring down Greenhouse Gas emissions. But its real worth is debateable, with some environmentalists and climate scientists arguing it’s now an impediment to genuine change. Treating Net Zero as an end in itself, they say, has to stop.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Emotional Intelligence and the promise of a better workplace https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/emotional-intelligence-and-the-promise-of-a-better-workplace/13957992 It’s not enough to be smart. If you’re to avoid being automated out of a job in future, you’ll need to develop your Emotional Intelligence. New research suggests more and more companies see an organisational benefit in promoting such skills. But is the rhetoric being backed up with training? Also, a reality check on the “great resignation” - has the pandemic really spawned a new era of job mobility? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 10 Jul 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It’s not enough to be smart. If you’re to avoid being automated out of a job in future, you’ll need to develop your Emotional Intelligence. New research suggests more and more companies see an organisational benefit in promoting such skills. But is the rhetoric being backed up with training? Also, a reality check on the “great resignation” - has the pandemic really spawned a new era of job mobility? It’s not enough to be smart. If you’re to avoid being automated out of a job in future, you’ll need to develop your Emotional Intelligence. New research suggests more and more companies see an organisational benefit in promoting such skills. But is the rhetoric being backed up with training? Also, a reality check on the “great resignation” - has the pandemic really spawned a new era of job mobility? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It’s not enough to be smart. If you’re to avoid being automated out of a job in future, you’ll need to develop your Emotional Intelligence. New research suggests more and more companies see an organisational benefit in promoting such skills. But is the rhetoric being backed up with training? Also, a reality check on the “great resignation” - has the pandemic really spawned a new era of job mobility?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1806 Algorithmic audiencing, bioluminescent lighting and the virtues of a circular city https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/algorithmic-audiencing,-bioluminescent-lighting-and-the-virtues/13949666 We examine the role algorithms play in limiting free-speech; we hear about the development of bacteria-driven lighting in France; we explore how the shape of our cities can influence weather patterns; and we learn about new research that applies a chemical approach to the simulation of touch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 03 Jul 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia We examine the role algorithms play in limiting free-speech; we hear about the development of bacteria-driven lighting in France; we explore how the shape of our cities can influence weather patterns; and we learn about new research that applies a chemical approach to the simulation of touch. We examine the role algorithms play in limiting free-speech; we hear about the development of bacteria-driven lighting in France; we explore how the shape of our cities can influence weather patterns; and we learn about new research that applies a chemical approach to the simulation of touch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices We examine the role algorithms play in limiting free-speech; we hear about the development of bacteria-driven lighting in France; we explore how the shape of our cities can influence weather patterns; and we learn about new research that applies a chemical approach to the simulation of touch.

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]]> 1806 A non-proliferation treaty for fossil fuels https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-non-proliferation-treaty-for-fossil-fuels/13912074 It’s time to attack the “supply side” of fossil fuels, activists argue. And the best way to do that is by establishing a fuel non-proliferation treaty similar to the one used for nuclear weapons. But what would it entail and could it ever work? Also, the sticky relationship between online personalisation and consent; and a call for CEOs to become the next target of automation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 26 Jun 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia It’s time to attack the “supply side” of fossil fuels, activists argue. And the best way to do that is by establishing a fuel non-proliferation treaty similar to the one used for nuclear weapons. But what would it entail and could it ever work? Also, the sticky relationship between online personalisation and consent; and a call for CEOs to become the next target of automation. It’s time to attack the “supply side” of fossil fuels, activists argue. And the best way to do that is by establishing a fuel non-proliferation treaty similar to the one used for nuclear weapons. But what would it entail and could it ever work? Also, the sticky relationship between online personalisation and consent; and a call for CEOs to become the next target of automation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices It’s time to attack the “supply side” of fossil fuels, activists argue. And the best way to do that is by establishing a fuel non-proliferation treaty similar to the one used for nuclear weapons. But what would it entail and could it ever work? Also, the sticky relationship between online personalisation and consent; and a call for CEOs to become the next target of automation.

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]]> 1806 Reembracing the spirit of public service https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/reembracing-the-spirit-of-public-service/13919036 The Future is Public is a global campaign aimed at creating a new narrative around public service. It’s about curbing the dominance of Neoliberalism in public policy. While in Australia, there are expectations the new government in Canberra will decrease the use of external consultants and make changes to the way government departments and agencies operate.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 19 Jun 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The Future is Public is a global campaign aimed at creating a new narrative around public service. It’s about curbing the dominance of Neoliberalism in public policy. While in Australia, there are expectations the new government in Canberra will decrease the use of external consultants and make changes to the way government departments and agencies operate.   The Future is Public is a global campaign aimed at creating a new narrative around public service. It’s about curbing the dominance of Neoliberalism in public policy. While in Australia, there are expectations the new government in Canberra will decrease the use of external consultants and make changes to the way government departments and agencies operate.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The Future is Public is a global campaign aimed at creating a new narrative around public service. It’s about curbing the dominance of Neoliberalism in public policy. While in Australia, there are expectations the new government in Canberra will decrease the use of external consultants and make changes to the way government departments and agencies operate.  

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]]> 1806 Cities – the hot beds of evolution https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/cities-%E2%80%93-the-hot-beds-of-evolution/13896264 Urban life has not only reshaped what it means to be human, cities are also changing animals. Rats in different parts of New York are evolving separately. Ecologist Rob Dunn describes cities as accelerators of evolution. Also in this episode, how city administrators compete for dominance using the same approach as social media influencers. And why house-flipping has gone algorithmic.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 12 Jun 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Urban life has not only reshaped what it means to be human, cities are also changing animals. Rats in different parts of New York are evolving separately. Ecologist Rob Dunn describes cities as accelerators of evolution. Also in this episode, how city administrators compete for dominance using the same approach as social media influencers. And why house-flipping has gone algorithmic.  Urban life has not only reshaped what it means to be human, cities are also changing animals. Rats in different parts of New York are evolving separately. Ecologist Rob Dunn describes cities as accelerators of evolution. Also in this episode, how city administrators compete for dominance using the same approach as social media influencers. And why house-flipping has gone algorithmic.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Urban life has not only reshaped what it means to be human, cities are also changing animals. Rats in different parts of New York are evolving separately. Ecologist Rob Dunn describes cities as accelerators of evolution. Also in this episode, how city administrators compete for dominance using the same approach as social media influencers. And why house-flipping has gone algorithmic. 

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]]> 1808 Disinformation and propaganda in a time of conflict https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/disinformation-and-propaganda-in-a-time-of-conflict/13900424 The crisis in Ukraine, like all wars, is a testing ground for new tactics and weapons. It’s also a conflict fought off the battlefield – on people’s computers, televisions and smartphones So, what have we learnt about the power of propaganda and disinformation during the current conflict? Also, the urge to shut-down – why governments of varying persuasions keep pulling the plug on their own internet services. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 05 Jun 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The crisis in Ukraine, like all wars, is a testing ground for new tactics and weapons. It’s also a conflict fought off the battlefield – on people’s computers, televisions and smartphones So, what have we learnt about the power of propaganda and disinformation during the current conflict? Also, the urge to shut-down – why governments of varying persuasions keep pulling the plug on their own internet services. The crisis in Ukraine, like all wars, is a testing ground for new tactics and weapons. It’s also a conflict fought off the battlefield – on people’s computers, televisions and smartphones So, what have we learnt about the power of propaganda and disinformation during the current conflict? Also, the urge to shut-down – why governments of varying persuasions keep pulling the plug on their own internet services. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The crisis in Ukraine, like all wars, is a testing ground for new tactics and weapons. It’s also a conflict fought off the battlefield – on people’s computers, televisions and smartphones So, what have we learnt about the power of propaganda and disinformation during the current conflict? Also, the urge to shut-down – why governments of varying persuasions keep pulling the plug on their own internet services.

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]]> 1806 The Earth BioGenome Project; the church of women; and what do we really think about facial recognition technology? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-earth-biogenome-project-church-of-women-facial-recognition/13875064 In this program we explore an ambitious science project aimed at to documenting the genomes of all known creatures; we'll hear why the future of the Anglican church is female; and explore the latest research into public perceptions of facial recognition technology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 29 May 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia In this program we explore an ambitious science project aimed at to documenting the genomes of all known creatures; we'll hear why the future of the Anglican church is female; and explore the latest research into public perceptions of facial recognition technology. In this program we explore an ambitious science project aimed at to documenting the genomes of all known creatures; we'll hear why the future of the Anglican church is female; and explore the latest research into public perceptions of facial recognition technology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this program we explore an ambitious science project aimed at to documenting the genomes of all known creatures; we'll hear why the future of the Anglican church is female; and explore the latest research into public perceptions of facial recognition technology.

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]]> 1806 The population conundrum https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-population-conundrum/13874986 Concerns that we'll soon have too many people on the Earth sit alongside apprehension that we are facing a looming demographic crisis. So how do we address both issues without further damaging the planet? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 22 May 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Concerns that we'll soon have too many people on the Earth sit alongside apprehension that we are facing a looming demographic crisis. So how do we address both issues without further damaging the planet? Concerns that we'll soon have too many people on the Earth sit alongside apprehension that we are facing a looming demographic crisis. So how do we address both issues without further damaging the planet? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Concerns that we'll soon have too many people on the Earth sit alongside apprehension that we are facing a looming demographic crisis. So how do we address both issues without further damaging the planet?

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]]> 1806 Does data science need a Hippocratic oath? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/does-data-science-need-a-hippocratic-oath/13864888 The use and misuse of our data can have enormous personal and societal consequences, so what ethical constraints are there on data scientists? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 15 May 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The use and misuse of our data can have enormous personal and societal consequences, so what ethical constraints are there on data scientists? The use and misuse of our data can have enormous personal and societal consequences, so what ethical constraints are there on data scientists? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The use and misuse of our data can have enormous personal and societal consequences, so what ethical constraints are there on data scientists?

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]]> 1808 Cliodynamics, the Hinge of History and why all history is revisionist https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/the-hinge-of-history-most-influential-time/13807182 The idea that history is circular is called Cliodynamics and it’s currently in vogue with many commentators on international affairs. But do such theories help or hinder our understanding of history and its predictive powers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 08 May 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia The idea that history is circular is called Cliodynamics and it’s currently in vogue with many commentators on international affairs. But do such theories help or hinder our understanding of history and its predictive powers? The idea that history is circular is called Cliodynamics and it’s currently in vogue with many commentators on international affairs. But do such theories help or hinder our understanding of history and its predictive powers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The idea that history is circular is called Cliodynamics and it’s currently in vogue with many commentators on international affairs. But do such theories help or hinder our understanding of history and its predictive powers?

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]]> 1807 Big data and farming – the promise and the fear https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/big-data-and-farming-%E2%80%93-the-promise-and-the-fear/13830072 Boosting your productivity by up to 25% - what industry wouldn't want to do that? That’s the future big tech promises for agriculture – one where extensive data is gathered on every aspect of the supply chain. But farmers are worried about privacy. And there are also questions about environmental impacts of big ag getting into big data. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 01 May 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Boosting your productivity by up to 25% - what industry wouldn't want to do that? That’s the future big tech promises for agriculture – one where extensive data is gathered on every aspect of the supply chain. But farmers are worried about privacy. And there are also questions about environmental impacts of big ag getting into big data. Boosting your productivity by up to 25% - what industry wouldn't want to do that? That’s the future big tech promises for agriculture – one where extensive data is gathered on every aspect of the supply chain. But farmers are worried about privacy. And there are also questions about environmental impacts of big ag getting into big data. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Boosting your productivity by up to 25% - what industry wouldn't want to do that? That’s the future big tech promises for agriculture – one where extensive data is gathered on every aspect of the supply chain. But farmers are worried about privacy. And there are also questions about environmental impacts of big ag getting into big data.

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]]> 1806 A slow move towards a plastic free future https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/a-slow-move-towards-a-plastic-free-future/13807166 Over the past two decades we’ve become increasingly sensitive to the overuse of plastic and more concerned about its environmental impact – but to what effect? Feel-good campaigns aside, the signs for the future are far from promising. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 24 Apr 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Over the past two decades we’ve become increasingly sensitive to the overuse of plastic and more concerned about its environmental impact – but to what effect? Feel-good campaigns aside, the signs for the future are far from promising. Over the past two decades we’ve become increasingly sensitive to the overuse of plastic and more concerned about its environmental impact – but to what effect? Feel-good campaigns aside, the signs for the future are far from promising. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Over the past two decades we’ve become increasingly sensitive to the overuse of plastic and more concerned about its environmental impact – but to what effect? Feel-good campaigns aside, the signs for the future are far from promising.

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]]> 1806 Are Sovereign Wealth Funds the best way of safeguarding the future? https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/are-sovereign-wealth-funds-the-best-way-of-safeguarding-the-fut/13807072 There are currently around 150 of these funds in the world worth in excess of $USD 9 trillion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 17 Apr 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia There are currently around 150 of these funds in the world worth in excess of $USD 9 trillion. There are currently around 150 of these funds in the world worth in excess of $USD 9 trillion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices There are currently around 150 of these funds in the world worth in excess of $USD 9 trillion.

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]]> 1806 Space-based Solar: energy above the clouds https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/space-based-solar-energy-above-the-clouds/13807004 Scientists are busy testing ways to build a giant solar farm in space. Also, what to do about the increasing levels of space junk finding its way into our oceans? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 10 Apr 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Scientists are busy testing ways to build a giant solar farm in space. Also, what to do about the increasing levels of space junk finding its way into our oceans? Scientists are busy testing ways to build a giant solar farm in space. Also, what to do about the increasing levels of space junk finding its way into our oceans? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Scientists are busy testing ways to build a giant solar farm in space. Also, what to do about the increasing levels of space junk finding its way into our oceans?

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]]> 1806 The future of satire is no laughing matter https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense/why-the-future-of-satire-is-no-laughing-matter/13798734 Satire has been around for thousands of years, but is its power dwindling? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Sun, 03 Apr 2022 02:30:00 -0000 full ABC Australia Satire has been around for thousands of years, but is its power dwindling? Satire has been around for thousands of years, but is its power dwindling? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Satire has been around for thousands of years, but is its power dwindling?

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