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Past Futurists Meeting Papers
Past Meetings 2008
May 05, 2007
**Future Studies & Special Presentations ****
Title: Synthetic Worlds
Discussion Leader: Aaron Grimm with Tom Ables
Abstract: The Future of Education Today
May 12, 2007
Economic/Finance Futures SIG
Title:$100 Laptop
Discussion Leader:Tom Trites
Abstract:Econ Sig:$100 Laptop
May 19, 2007
Technology Futures SIG
Title:New Technology-Batteries
Discussion Leader:Hank Lederer
Abstract:New batteries Nanophosphate Lithium-Ion Batteries
May 26, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title:White Hole in TIME
Discussion Leader:Hank & Jack
Abstract:White Hole In Time Text (Also see The Global Brain Awakens)
THE WHITE HOLE IN TIME - Video. In this video Peter Russell proposes that we stand on the threshold of a major leap in evolution, as significant as the emergence of life itself, and the essence of this leap is inner spiritual development. Moreover, he maintains that it is only through such a shift in consciousness that we will be able to manage successfully the global crises now facing us.
June 02, 2007
Future Studies & Special Presentations
Title: Application of Future Studies
Discussion Leader: George Kubik
- Abstract: The group will brainstorm and apply Future Studies training to issues and implications.
June 09, 2007
Economic/Finance Futures SIG (Also See Econ Sig - The Dollar, Econ Sig Issues)
Title:The Not So Predictable Future For details click here, or click The Not So Predictable Future.ppt to view the presentation.
Discussion Leader:Jack Carter
Abstract:This presentation is a counterpoint to most articles you read from state or federal officials. The official view is always bright and predictable, but America’s future is anything but predictable. You will see how official views compare with those of reigning political, economic, and media experts. You decide who to believe and what we should do.I believe that once past a tipping point where more firms take more than they give to society, employers have to cultivate moral behavior to sustain growth and profit.
June 16, 2007
Technology Futures SIG
Title:The Global Brain
Discussion Leader:Rog Rydberg
- **Abstract:The Global Brain Awakens
- PowerPoint : Heylighen1.ppt
June 23, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title:Internet II
Discussion Leader:Dave Keenan & Hank Lederer
- Abstract:Internet II
June 30, 2007
Peace Futures SIG and Annual Meeting
Title:Middle East Alternatives (seeEnding Middle East Oil Dependence)
Discussion Leader:Hank Lederer
- Abstract:Short and long term U.S. role. Alternative energy and U.S. dependancy on middle east oil.
Annual Meeting 11:15-11:45
AGENDA: The agenda has been developed from input provided by you, the MNF membership, per our previous request. The agenda will consist of the following:
1. FINANCIAL REPORTS: A status report from our Treasurer regarding MNF financial status. (Includes an MNF balance sheet and income/expense statements for the year.)
2. ELECTIONS: MNF Annual elections
3. MNF 3RD DAY: A brief review of planned activities scheduled for our MNF 3rd day session (to be held immediately following the WFS 2007 Conference).
4. FUTURICS: A review of issues regarding future publication of our Futurics journal (with a request for member input and suggestions).
5. OPEN FORUM: An open forum for MNF members to provide their input concerning MNF activities and options.
July 7 2007
Future Studies & Special Presentations
Title: Bracketing the FutureDiscussion Leader: Brian Toren
Abstract: Bracketing is the process used to determine who plays who in sport tournaments. I thought maybe this process could be applied to forecasting the future. My plan is to try this out on all willing subjects at this SIG. I will explain the process a bit more, discuss a couple of tools to use to forecast the future and divide participants into small groups (I'll leave the interpretation of this to the reader). I will hand out some worksheets to each group and they can have at it. Afterwords I would like to critique of the process.
July 14, 2007
Economic/Finance Futures SIG
Title: John Naisbitt's Vision of the Future
Abstract: Naisbitt Futures from his latest book, MIND SET!
Presentation: A Review and Critique John Naisbitt’s View of the Future.ppt
Handout: Alvin and Heidi Toffler's Industrial vs. Informational Paradigms.ppt
Handout #2: Naisbitt's 1982 Megatrends.ppt
A Vision for the 21st Century: "I am not a student for anyone else's agenda. I go out and find the answers to my own questions... not from someone else's list." Russell Crowe summed up his work philosophy.
Discussion Leader: Jack Carter
July 21, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title: Future of Aging - Video of presentation by Aubrey de Grey
Discussion Leader:Dave Keenan
- Abstract: de Grey discusses Strategies for Engineering Neglible Senescence (SENS) and the 7 factors of aging
- Handout:
HO-Future of Aging.doc
July 28, 2007
Technology Futures SIG & Tee shirt pick up
Title: The universe is queerer than we can suppose - Video presentation by Richard Dawkins
Discussion Leader: Hank Lederer
- Abstract
August 4, 2007
Future Studies & Special Presentations
Title: WFS2007 DebriefDiscussion Leader: Tom Abeles, George Kubik & Dave Keenan
August 11, 2007
Economic/Finance Futures SIG
Title: Identifying early warning systems for future trends in society: 26 MAJOR TECHNIQUES AND TRAPS
1. Society systems are very complicated; don’t expect silver bullet solutions.
2. It is important to be humble. We don’t understand many of the forces of the universe, the worldwide marketplace and human psychology.
3. Beware of considering that two events which have a statistical correlation represent a cause and effect relationship. Most events which happened in the same time frame have absolutely no cause and effect relationship.
4. Beware of stating your own personal prejudice as a proven principle of how society operates. Anecdotes are valuable, but they are not universal truths
To Down Load click here Fut26traps.doc
Discussion Leader:Bill Peter
August 18, 2007
Technology Futures SIG
Title: Synthetic Organisms
Discussion Leader: Hank Lederer
Abstract: Craig Venter (of Human Genome Fame) has a new venture to develop minimal genome organisms that can be engineered as efficient producers of fuel.
Ref. www.syntheticgenomics.com
August 25, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title: Virtual Worlds - Real World Issues
Discussion Leader: David Keenan
Abstract: Since January 2007, subscribers to the Massively Multiplayer Online Game Second Life has grown from 2.3 million to 8.3 million. There are now over 100 real world companies who have set up shop in Second Life. Over 250 schools have established a presence in the virtual world. We will explore some of the latest news to emerge from this new space and consider some implications for the future. A copy of the handout and all the links to video and audio can be found at http://www.mnfuturists.org/PDFCurrent/Virtual%20Worlds%20RealOpportunities.pdf
September 1, 2007
Future Studies & Special Presentations
Title: Future of Academic Publications
Discussion Leader: Tom Abeles
Abstract: 25,000 professional, academic journals in the world are facing pressures from electronic publishing, blogs, Google Scholar, etc. More to come.
September 15, 2007
Economic/Finance Futures SIG in lieu of Technology Futures SIG
Title: Ancient wisdom meets education and critical thinking
Discussion Leader: Jack Carter, Principal, Wealth Generation
Presentation: Ancient Wisdom Meets Education and Critical Thinking.ppt
Abstract: I am responding to an article on our website entitled “Critical Thinking Teaching Strategies and Classroom Techniques.”
In order for education to be effective and critical thinking to occur, a person has to know themselves and their nature, and be continually supported by a culture that reinforces that knowledge.
These insights are based on ancient wisdom a la Joseph Campbell’s The Power of Myth with Bill Moyers.
Other references Education Innovation
September 22, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title: The Future of Health Care: Quantum Healing. You CAN heal yourself!
Discussion Leader: Brenda Miller
Abstract: Quantum Healing: The Future of Health Care
Imagine a world where AIDS is just another infection, and where cancer victims routinely experience spontaneous remission. Futurist, Brenda Miller will discuss conventional medicine vs. complimentary alternative therapies; and a breakthrough, innovative technology, which promises to forever change the way we think about well-being and human potential, that could take the place of medicine within 30 years.
Brenda will discuss the paradigm shifts to Quantum Healing, as opposed to the realm of diagnosing and curing. Attendees will learn how this new self-healing technology is measurable and stems from the holographic principles in physics and the work of physicists David Bohm and Niels Bohr: the universe is actually a three-dimensional projection no more real than a hologram; everything is energy and everything vibrates at a unique frequency, including diseases, and for every imbalance there is a frequency that will neutralize it; and everything in the universe is infinitely interconnected and therefore holds the "secret" toward healing and quantum consciousness.
Brenda will also address the threats of what is occurring in our world that stands in the way of us advancing and healing ourselves, the implications if this technology is accepted by the mainstream, and the dire consequences for those who do not.
View the presentation => new crotona.ppt
September 29, 2007
Peace SIG
Title: Is The Iraq War End In Sight?
Discussion Leader:Rog Rydberg
Abstract:(For reference - Peace Sig Issues )
October 13, 2007
Economic/Finance Futures SIG
Title: "America's Fiscal Policy: We Must Look to the Future."
Discussion Leader: Jim Zitek
Presentation:As member of the speaker's bureau of the Concord Coalition. I have a 30 minute presentation that illustrates the problems of current fiscal policy (deficits) and where these deficits are headed if nothing is changed. This is followed by a discussion about what can be done to (discretionary and nondiscretionary) programs/budgets to change this trend. Long-term, if we do nothing, the U.S. could be facing a fiscal calamity if we don't get federal spending and revenues into balance. At the end of the program, I have five questions we hope each member of the audience will ask their candidate in the upcoming election. This is non-partisan. The questions are for all parties. We need solutions not politics.
(The Concord Coalition is a Washington D.C. based, non-profit, non-partisan organization advocating responsible fiscal policy. It was
started by Warren Rudman (R-NH) and Paul Tsongas (D-Mass).) Ref Econ Sig : 2007 Forecast Econ Sig - The Dollar
October 20, 2007
Technology Futures SIG
Title: Ten Future Web Trends
Discussion Leader: David Keenan
Abstract: Drawn from a nice article on ReadWriteWeb 10_future_web_trends
The Semantic Web, Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Worlds, Mobile, Attention Economy, Websites as Web Services, Online Video/Internet TV, Rich Internet Apps, International Web, and Personalization Handout: HO Ten Future Web Trends 20Oct07.doc
October 27, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title: The Coming Pandemic
Discussion Leader: Eric Hand
Abstract:The world has suffered 10 Influenza A pandemics in the last 300 years. The one in 1918-19, according to a recent study, killed about 50-100
million people worldwide, compared to about 9 million killed in WWI. Now a consensus of world experts believes a new pandemic, with ominous similarities to the 1918 one, is evolving in Asia. If it achieves easy human-to-human transmissibility in the next year or so, we would have no effective drugs or vaccines available in large amounts for at least 6 months to one year. Since it would spread thru the world within a few weeks, what would happen to our delicately balanced just-in-time economies, and to people who are far more dependent on each other and their governments than ever? What we can do to mitigate this coming disaster.
November 3, 2007
Future Studies & Special Presentations
Title: "Student Participation in Minnesota Future Problem Solving Programs"
Guest Speaker: Cheryl Whitesitt, Executive Director, MN Future Problem Solving Program (MN FPSP)
Moderator: David Keenan
Abstract: MFSP is an award-winning educational program founded in 1974 by Dr. E. Paul Torrance, internationally renowned for his work in
creativity and gifted education. He also was concerned about the future. The MFSP classes cover the following topics:
1.Teaching students how to think, not what to think
2. Defining mission and vision statements
3. Explaining six-step Future Problem Solving Process
4. Developing team and individual problem-solving skills, scenario-writing skills
5. Identifying underlying problems, and brainstorm possible solutions.
6. Walking through the process
7. Discussing past, present and future topics
November 10, 2007
Econ Futures SIG
Title: "Revolutionary Wealth" (Part 1)
Discussion Leader: Jack Carter
Abstract: I challenge some of noted futurists Alvin and Heidi Toffler's conclusions about the future of society expressed in The Future Shock People Are Back.doc
See: Revolutionary Wealth.ppt
November 17, 2007
Technology Futures SIG
Title: "Really Tall Buildings"
Discussion Leaders: Hank Lederer and David Keenan
Abstract: There is a new global competition for the tallest and most amazing buildings. We'll review recent examples and look at proposed structures in the near and far future. (Roger: pls change text in this sentence from boldface to lightface. I don't seem to be able to do it.)
HO-TallBuildings HL.doc MNF Tall Buildings 17Nov07.ppt
November 24, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title: "Unleashing Wisdom"
Discussion Leader: Bill Peter
Abstract: First public discussion of the book "A 21st Century Book @ www.2020and2035.com". The book is a new genre available free on www.2020and2035.com and includes a combination of essays, DVD's and a CD presentation format. Importantly, it is an optimistic view of the future as a welcome contrast to "doom and gloom" views we hear so often in our worldwide society.
Background info: Fifty Years From Now.doc Unleashing Wisdom.doc
December 1, 2007
Future Studies & Special Presentations
Title: "Reducing Human Numbers to a Sustainable Level"
Guest Speaker: David Paxson
Moderator: David Keenan
Abstract:World Population Situation
Web Site:worldpopulationbalance.org
December 8, 2007
Econ Futures SIG
Title: "Revolutionary Wealth," (Part II)
Discussion Leader: Jack Carter
Abstract: Second part of the Alvin/Heidi Toffler futures book
Presentation: Revolutionary Wealth.ppt
December 15, 2007
Technology Futures SIG
Title: "Forecasting Energy Demand Using Systems Theory"
Discussion Leaders: David & Lyn Grider
Abstract: Future Trends In Energy Consumption
December 22, 2007
Society/Management Futures SIG
Title: "U.S. Health Care Crisis: Real or Imagined?"
Discussion Leaders: Hank Lederer and Roger Rydberg
Abstract: Film maker Michael Moore turns his controversial lens on U.S. limited health care plans as seen by citizens of Canada, France, England and Cuba -- and decides ours is lacking
Reference Video: "Sicko," a film by Michael Moore, Canada Health Care - Real Story
December 29, 2007
Peace Futures SIG
Title: "War Made Easy"
Discussion Leader: Roger Rydberg
Abstract:"War Made Easy"
Over the years, Norman Solomon has distinguished himself as one of the pre-eminent analysts of the American media and political culture.
In "War Made Easy," Solomon dissects the time-proven slogans and propaganda techniques that have been used by administration after U.S. administration to--in effect--motivate the American people against themselves and their own best interests--not to mention those of citizens in many other nations.
January 5, 2008 Future Studies & Special Presentations Guest Speaker: John Fraser, CEO, MEDNET USA Moderator: David Keenan Abstract: Consumers today enjoy quick service from coffee shops on every street corner. Services are fast and friendly, even for complex orders (make that a double espresso, skinny, with whipped cream please!). Visit http://www.mednet.org for more information. January 12, 2008 Econ Futures SIG Discussion Leaders: Dick Saunders, Eric Hand and Roger Rydberg Abstract: How and where to search for stocks, stock and country index funds (ETFs) and commodities that reflect the rising economies in emerging markets such as Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC). For more info see:ETF Charts Jim Rogers video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEu5sqac99M Wild Hog For China - Fortune Dec 2007; Hamburger Index Baltic Dry Index at http://www.investmenttools.com/futures/bdi_baltic_dry_index.htm NOTE: A four-part series of follow-up classes for serious investors will tentatively start at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 24 and May 22 at Grand City Buffet, 8917 Hwy. 7, St.Louis Park (in Knollwood Mall. For further info, e-mail dicksaun@gmail.com or call 612/861-1061 after 5 p.m.. January 26, 2008 Society/Management Futures SIGTitle: "Two Shots of Espresso and a Strep Test To Go, Please"
2007-01-05-MN-Futurists.Talkv1.0.ppt Also Open Source Health Care
The Rich Man's Michael Moore (Wall Street Journal, Feb. 23, 2008)
Title: "Investing Down The BRIC Road"