New Releases

The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East has long been a focal point of international relations, with various nation-states in the region pursuing distinct objectives rooted in their unique historical, cultural, and socio-political contexts. Concurrently, the United States, as a global superpower, has its own set of fundamental objectives that guide its foreign policy. This research report explores the alignment and conflicts between the fundamental objectives of Middle Eastern nation-states and the United States. It also develops scenarios for potential medium-term futures up to 2030, considering how these dynamics might evolve. 

HSE University Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge on April 17–18, 2025 organized the International Symposium ‘Foresight in a Rapidly Changing World’ in the framework of XXV Yasin (April) International Academic Conference on Economic and Social Development. Its third session was titled ‘Futures Studies: a New Agenda’. The Symposium focused on dissecting advanced approaches to futures studies, including best practices in national and international STI foresight, the features of foresight-studies amid rapid changes in society, economy, policy, culture and values. 

In an era marked by unprecedented global interconnectivity, our focus must shift from merely facilitating the flow of goods and services to fostering a deeper, more meaningful exchange of ideas and cultures. This shift, known as planetization—a term rooted in the visionary work of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin—offers a transformative approach to achieving global harmony by emphasizing the interconnectedness of our world beyond economic transactions. By embracing planetization, we can cultivate a richer, more balanced world where ideas, cultures, and ideologies flourish alongside economic progress.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington DC, October 24, 2024 — The Alternative Planetary Futures Institute (Ap-Fi) is proud to announce its participation in the Living in Space (LIS) Initiative, an international coalition dedicated to advancing the future of human space exploration. This collaboration brings together leading organizations from around the world to address the scientific, technological, and societal challenges of expanding humanity’s presence and impact beyond Earth.

As the world transitions from a multi-continental civilization to a multi-planetary one, space exploration is entering a new era. The LIS Initiative focuses on overcoming the unique challenges of human space exploration.

"The future of space exploration represents an unparalleled opportunity to push the boundaries of what’s possible, not only in terms of scientific discovery but also in how we envision and build our shared future across planets," said Victor V. Motti, President and CEO at Ap-Fi. "By joining the LIS Initiative, we are committed to shaping this new era with bold innovation and collaborative solutions."

The Ap-Fi's engagement in the LIS Initiative aligns with its mission to explore alternative planetary futures, advancing a holistic vision for humanity’s role and impact in space. 

This partnership represents a vital step towards fostering the knowledge, infrastructure, and inspiration needed to navigate the complexities of new life formation and evolution beyond Earth. As we continue to explore new frontiers, the Ap-Fi is excited to collaborate with global partners in creating a multi-planetary future that benefits all of humanity.

In preparation for the zero draft of the Pact for the Future, the co-facilitators of the UN Summit of the Future: Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow, Germany and Namibia invited written inputs from Major Groups and Other Stakeholders (MGoS), other civil society networks and organizations, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and academia. Stakeholders were encouraged to reflect on the scope of the Pact for the Future outlined in the UN General Assembly Decision 77/568 and to provide concise, concrete and action-oriented recommendations structured around the elements of the Pact for the Future.

The call for written inputs concluded on December 31, 2023 resulting in a wealth of submissions that will play a crucial role in shaping the zero draft. Among the contributors, the Alternative Planetary Futures Institute (Ap-Fi) has submitted a noteworthy input, reflecting the commitment to advancing planetary futures.

Futures Wheel Analysis 

First, Second, and Third Order Impacts of Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine 

created on 25 February 2022 

Futures Studies

Contributions and Sources 

This comprehensive work delves into the diverse facets of futures studies and is set to be a resource for scholars, policymakers, and forward-thinkers alike. The new release which spans various dimensions of the future, boasts an array of topics, all meticulously explored by leading experts in their respective fields. “Futures Studies: Contributions and Sources” aims to illuminate the paths to more innovative planetary futures for humanity. This publication offers readers a multidimensional understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. 

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• Institutionalization of Futures Studies

• Futures Research Methodology

• Foresight Evaluation

• Planetary Futures of Leadership & Governance

• Planetary/Global Futures Index

• Paradigms for a Post-Capitalist World

• Paradigms of Planetary Sustainability

• Future Scenarios of Space Revolution

• Arthur C. Clarke and His Unique Gift for Technological Projection and Anticipation

• Future Scenarios of AI Revolution

• Future Scenarios of Work/AGI Governance

• Bibliography 

The Future Ages of Collective Awakening

Executive Summary

Weak and strong signals, from diverse and independent sources, point to an imminent global consciousness, suggesting spirit, mind, and ethical revolutions. On the horizon, we observe a new rush hour of the prophets, ideologies, and cults calling for first values and first principles. In 2100 the planetary consciousness will push machine-humanity towards increasing freedom. In 3000, at the dawn of the cosmic age, the myth of the sacred rock will be re-defined around the entire planet Earth.

Table of Contents

• The Centuries of the Spirit

• Macro History of Collective Awakening

• Outline of the Planetary Consciousness Age

• Outline of the Cosmic Age & the Sacred Rock

A Dialogue on Science Fiction

How to Achieve Planetary Wisdom Through Future Consciousness

Table of Contents

• Executive Summary

• The Future of Everything

• The Power of Narrative

• Openness of Futures and Holistic Consciousness

• Possible Futures of Education

• Wisdom Narratives

• Consciousness, Omniscience, and Omnipotence

• Aliens, Ecology, and Space

• Evolution, Progress, and a Culture of Hope

• Love, Sex, Gender, and Marriage

• Planetary Wisdom and Cosmic Consciousness