In an era of unprecedented change and complexity, three interconnected themes emerge as crucial: the future of society, intergenerational dynamics, and the evolving landscape of jobs and education. These areas reveal recurring and interconnected concepts, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to address today’s many challenges.
Society is experiencing a period of profound transformation, characterized by increasing fragility, complexity, and individual isolation. The absence of a collective identity based on shared values stands as a source of critical concern. Institutions and their functions require rethinking to adapt to these changes. The concept of “place” plays a crucial role in current societal development. With growing urbanization (2.9 billion people living in cities), the importance of proximity and interactions in urban environments becomes evident. This shift necessitates a new approach to leadership, transcending the traditional public/private dualism and embracing civil and social leadership. To this extent, the evolving role of the third sector, particularly in light of increasing life expectancy, offers new opportunities. Programs run by large foundations that bring together private and public entities exemplify innovative approaches to addressing society’s diverse challenges.
Demographic shifts emerge as a critical factor shaping societal dynamics. By 2075, the global population is expected to reach 10 billion, with significant growth in Africa and Asia, while Europe’s population will continue to shrink. This shift will inevitably influence global cultures, values, and societies. The traditional pyramidal structure of society is inverting, necessitating a re-evaluation of resource allocation across generations. This may require prioritizing investments in primary education over higher education as well as rethinking pension systems.
In light of these changes, a pressing need exists for a new intergenerational pact, one that goes beyond mere redistribution of resources towards a co-creation of the future. Young people today face unique challenges, including digital overload, fear of AI’s impact on jobs, and a fragile trust in institutions. Only 54% of youth see sustainability as a job opportunity, highlighting the need for better alignment between education and future job prospects.
The nature of information flow between generations is changing. While traditionally vertical (from old to young), information now flows more horizontally among peers. AI presents a potential tool to restore some vertical flow of information, but its impact needs careful consideration. The role of AI in education and the workplace is becoming increasingly significant. While AI offers potential benefits in areas such as disease prevention and personalized learning, it also raises concerns about privacy, information manipulation, and the changing nature of human interactions. The concept of “vertical AI” that accompanies individuals throughout their lives and careers is emerging, with implications yet to be fully understood. The potential effect of AI on jobs raises questions, with caution against assuming widespread job displacement. Instead, the focus shifts to how AI could augment human capabilities and create new opportunities, but this potential has to be governed carefully.
The evolving landscape of jobs and education in light of technological advancements calls for a more precise and customized approach to education, moving away from a one-size-fits-all model. Project-based learning and the integration of AI into everyday life stand out as key strategies. The aim of education remains a central point of debate. While preparing workers for the job market is important, nurturing autonomous minds and fostering critical thinking about values takes precedence. There’s a growing recognition that learning is no longer confined to traditional schooling but happens through various means, including digital platforms. Young people increasingly want to learn by doing, which emphasizes the value of experiential learning. The concept of “useful useless knowledge” underscores the importance of broad-based learning beyond immediate practical applications. Ultimately, education should increase opportunities because “talent is equally distributed, but opportunities are not”.
In conclusion, these complex issues raise more questions than answers. However, such questions serve as crucial starting points for further exploration and action. As society navigates these challenges, a multifaceted, collaborative approach involving all generations becomes essential in shaping a sustainable and equitable future. The need for targeted policies, collective action, and improved communication across generations is clear. Building trust between generations and institutions, adopting flexible approaches to education and work, and carefully managing the integration of AI into society are recognized as key priorities. By addressing these challenges holistically, society can work towards creating a future that is not only technologically advanced but also socially cohesive and equitable. We need to navigate from artificial intelligence to collective intelligence, the latter being based on common values.