About this episode

The episode discusses how to shape an open future amidst uncertainty, featuring insights from political thinkers Sirkka Heinonen and Thomas Wallgren.

In the second episode of this two part series on transformative politics, futures, and hope, we turn to the question of what comes next. If the future is not predetermined, how can it be shaped, and by whom? The conversation explores the idea that the future is fundamentally open, while acknowledging the constraints posed by climate change, technological developments, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. What does it mean to act under uncertainty, and how can political imagination be sustained in times of crisis? Sirkka Heinonen emphasises futures literacy, collective visioning, and the distinction between possible, probable, and preferable futures. She highlights the need to imagine alternatives and develop forms of anticipatory governance. Thomas Wallgren reflects on the ethical and political dimensions of uncertainty, questioning dominant narratives around technological progress and emphasising responsibility, agency, and the power of truth. The discussion engages with the limits of current political frameworks and how we understand expertise and collective action. The episode brings together philosopher and political thinker Professor Thomas Wallgren (University of Helsinki)…

People in this episode

Guests: Sirkka Heinonen, Thomas Wallgren

Topics covered

• transformative politics
• political imagination
• futures literacy
• climate change
• technological developments
• geopolitical dynamics

Keywords

• transformative politics
• political imagination
• futures literacy
• climate change
• geopolitical dynamics
• collective visioning
• anticipatory governance

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Helsinki, University of Turku, World Social Forum

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