Speculative Futures | Johanna Hoffman

TL;DR

Speculative Futures uses design and storytelling to envision and co-create resilient cities that address long-standing urban development issues.

Transcript

foreign executive director here at the long now foundation and thank you for all being here in real life I'm particularly excited about tonight because really in some way a lot of what long now does is is speculative Futures the clock the 10 000 year clock in a way is a is a speculative future um in in other ways things like science fiction is a sp... Read More

Key Insights

• ✋ Speculative Futures combines design and storytelling to create high-resolution visions of potential futures and inform decision-making in urban development.
• 🥶 Speculative futures challenge assumptions, push beyond dystopian narratives, and foster collaboration and co-creation.
• 💠 Speculative futures facilitate the cultivation of shared language, enhance social resilience, and enable individuals and communities to shape their own future.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the purpose of speculative futures in urban development?

Speculative Futures aims to address long-standing issues in urban development and create resilient cities by envisioning potential futures and co-creating solutions.

Q: How do speculative futures tools challenge current conditions and conventions?

Speculative design and storytelling tactics challenge assumptions about current conditions and foster innovative thinking about alternative possibilities in urban development.

Q: How can speculative futures facilitate collaboration and co-creation in city making?

Speculative futures provide a forum for collaborative discussions and decision-making, allowing residents and stakeholders to co-design and advocate for visions that work for them.

Q: How can speculative futures enhance social resilience in communities?

By focusing on collaboration, reciprocity, and deepening trust and connection, speculative futures can enhance social resilience in communities, enabling them to adapt and cope with social and environmental hazards.

Q: Are speculative futures tools only relevant for professionals in city planning and design?

No, speculative futures tools can be used by individuals, communities, NGOs, research institutions, and even the private sector to imagine and co-create more resilient cities. They provide a means for diverse perspectives to collaborate and shape the future.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Speculative Futures involves using design and storytelling to create high-resolution visions of potential futures and reflect on their ramifications.

• The process helps individuals and communities imagine alternative futures, challenge assumptions, and enhance their resilience.

• Speculative Futures approaches include science fiction prototyping, world building, design fiction, and speculative design.