July 9, 2011
Topic: "US Debt Ceiling Outlook; Second-Half Economic Outlook"
Jul9EconSig.odp Jul9EconSig.pdf
Speaker/Moderators: Roger Rydberg and Dick Saunders
Abstracts: Former Fed Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan discusses debt ceiling futures; Liz Ann Sonders of Schwab provides in-depth views of economy's second six months. Q&A after each session.
References:
Debt ceiling deadline: Catastrophe? Or just disruptive?
Debt ceiling debate raises default worries http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000224018283
US Debt http://www.usdebtclock.org/
The Economy July 2011 The Economy July 2011
July 12, 2011
MNF Board Meeting
- Transition for new board members
- Opportunity to Exhibit at Nobel Conference, Oct 3,4 2011
July 16, 2011
Topic: Technology Futures
Title: "Einstein's and Other Telescopes"
Speaker: Hank Lederer
Introduction & Moderator: Brian Toren
Abstract: Dark Matter and Dark Energy are co-kings/queens of the universe. Detectable matter comprises only 4% of the visible universe. With the help of Evalyn Gates, Hank will guide you on a tour of this world of mysterious matter and energy. Can Einstein's Telescope find the WIMPS & MACHOS, or will we be forever in the dark. Come this Saturday and help Hank solve the mystery of the century. (Dark Matter was actually forecast in 1937, and by a physicist not a science fiction writer).
Worlds Largest Telescopes.pptx. (For Links view in Slide Show mode)
http://www.hubblesite.org/gallery/
July 23, 2011
Topic: Health Care Futures
Title: "Where Doesn't It Hurt?"
Guest Speaker: Dr. Merlin Brown, Edina internist and author
Abstract: Can Medical Service Accounts (MSAs) help reduce the soaring costs of U.S. healthcare--and yours too? Dr. Brown thinks that's possible and preferable by replacing government insurance for outpatient care with a self-managed debit card plan. Invite family, friends, neighbors, your personal physician to attend.
Speaker Profiles:
Dr. Merlin Brown, a native of Tennessee, was reared on a small Wisconsin farm. He graduated from Loma Linda (CA) University School of Medicine in 1990. He is currently in practice in an Edina clinic. His outside interests include building apartments and condominiums, developing homes for the mentally challenged in Wisconsin, and world travel.
REF:
http://healthreform.kff.org/timeline.aspx
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2010/03/24/us/politics/20100319-health-care-effect.html?emc=eta1
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patient_Protection_and_Affordable_Care_Act
http://www.ocregister.com/opinion/medicare-309172-government-social.html
http://www.accenture.com/us-en/Landing-Pages/health-public-service/Pages/healthps-us-healthcare-
Meet e-Patient Dave
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/dave_debronkart_meet_e_patient_dave.html
July 30, 2011
Topic: Peace, Justice and Religion Trends Jul30PeaceSig.pdf Jul30PeaceSig.odp
Title:"Washington Rules: America's Path to Permanent War"
Speaker:Rog Rydberg
Abstract: Andrew Bacevich, retired from the army as a colonel and is now a professor of history and international relations. This book helps us understand why presidents have come and gone and yet US national security policy has remained unchanged: A worldwide military presence; armed forces configured not for defense but for global power projection; and a penchant for interventionism, whether overt or covert, anywhere and anytime. From the age of Harry Truman to the era of Barack Obama, why has this triad of principles remained sacrosanct? As much as we hope for change ... it does not come.
Ref:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HvlpFRvZaA&feature=related
Bill Moyers Interviews Andrew Bacevich
http://www.truth-out.org/bill-moyers-interviews-andrew-bacevich/1306971684
The Limits of Power - Andrew J. Bacevich
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZ1h6Ki2-8
August 6, 2011
Topic: Military Robots
Title: Emerging Futures for Military Robots
Speaker: George Kubik, PhD
Abstract: Wondering where your tax money goes in the Department of Defense. Join us in examining the developing future(s) of military robots. As the proliferation of robots for military use steadily increases, research into robots ranging from large-scale machines to nano-level devices is exploding. Once reserved for hot, heavy, and hazardous tasks, as well as dull, dirty, and dangerous duties, semi-autonomous and automous robots are emerging as a new force in militaries throughout the world. Imagery from science fiction will join science fact as we examine the rationale for military robots.
(David K) Project Horizon - Future Force Warrior
http://www.tacticalwarfightergear.com/tacticalgear/catalog/Army_Technology.php
August 13, 2011
Topic: Economics/Markets SIG
Title: "Future of the US Job Market In The Next 5 Years"
Speakers: Dick Saunders and Roger Rydberg
Abstract: U. S. job growth has badly lagged the pace of most economic recoveries since the 1930's.Now there are new threats to continued recovery. Why, and what are some possible strategies for faster growth in the next 1-5 years? Bring your ideas to add to other policymakers' suggestions like Bill Clinton.
REFAug13EconSig.pdf Aug13EconSig.odp
:http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/does-government-matter-06302011.html
Jobs SIG Quotes http://mnfuturist2011.pbworks.com/w/page/44182054/Jobs%20SIG%20Quotes
http://labs.slate.com/topright/technology/?wpisrc=obnetwork
http://www.thedailybeast.com/galleries/2011/06/20/bill-clinton-s-14-global-initiatives.html
http://national-review-ranks-2012-candidates-on-job-creation/
http://ttp://jerrypournelle.com/jerrypournelle.c/chaosmanor/#program
August 20, 2011
Topic: Technology SIG
Title: "The Roles of Technology and of New Collaboration Systems in the Growth of Innovation Worldwide in the Next 25 Years"
Speaker: Bill Peter
Abstract: Bill Peter, Innovation Consultant, MBA Professor, and Futurist will describe historical trends and potential future alternative scenarios for the next 25 years. Technology trends are extremely important, but so are Collaboration Systems trends. Together, very attractive future innovation scenarios are possible over the next 25 years worldwide.
August 27, 2011
Topic: Society, Management and Education SIG
Title: "Future of Healthcare: Five Basic Rights of Medication Delivery"
Speaker: Lorna Hanebuth-Sherman
Abstract: There are continual changes in the delivery of the 5 Basic Rights in medication administration from simple changes at various levels of health care to innovative technological approaches but errors still occur.
References:
"ISMP's List of Error-Prone Abbreviations, Symbols and Dose Designation (2010)" (PDF)
"Acute Care Guidelines for Timely Administration of Scheduled Medications." (PDF)
Presentation: The Future of Healthcare - Five Basic Rights of Medication - LHSherman.ppt
September 10, 2011
Topic: Finance and Economics SIG
Title: Jobs Futures (Part 2)
Speakers: Dick Saunders, Brian Toren and Roger Rydberg:
Abstract: August's zero-growth in jobs numbers opened new doubts about the short-term U.S. economic picture. We sample leading economists and statisticians for post-2012 views on possible outcomes, explore some economic sectors, companies and technology trends showing job-creating potential. And we compare Pres. Obama's latest proposals with those of several GOP candidates.Your nominations for growth sectors will be welcome.
Ref:
http://mnfuturist2011.pbworks.com/w/page/45331325/Econ%20Sig%20Sept%2010%202011
September 3, 2011
Topic: Future Studies
Title: Robotic Futures - part II
Speaker: George Kubik
October 1, 2011
Topic: Future Studies
Title: Requisite Variety: A Strategy for Addressing Future Complexity and Uncertainty
Speaker: George Kubik
Abstract: There are no precedents for the dynamics of change and complexity that our shaping societies, enterprises, and ourselves. The rules for understanding our world are constantly being rewritten! Fortunately, systems theory provides us with a valuable perspective to address the growing uncertainty associated with emerging, complex, and pluralistic futures. Join us this week as we explore the “Principle of Requisite Variety”—an evolving framework for strategically addressing the modern (and postmodern) world.
October 8, 2011
Topic: Society, Management and Education SIG
Title: "The Future of Education on the Principles of Innovation (2011 to 2035)"
Speaker: Bill Peter
Abstract: “World Class Innovation” was first publically announced as an Innovation Education Business startup at the World Future Society – Minnesota Chapter on 9/25/10. Co-founders and Futurists Bill Peter, David Keenan and Ed Rogers will describe the several alternative future scenarios that they envision as possible, likely and preferred over the next 25 years. They will also describe the current and expected status of World Class Innovation in the competitive environment
October 15, 2011
Topic: Technology
Title: Nobel Conference Review
Video Speaker: Larry J. Young, PhD - Emory University
Abstract: "The Monogamous Brain: Implications for Novel Therapies for Autism"
Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iko7UXC-M94&list=PLA1D7BD1295076BB1&index=1
Additional links: https://gustavus.edu/events/nobelconference/2011/resources.php
October 22, 2011
Topic: Emerging Nations
Title: "Report on Mongolia: Land of Vast Spaces -- and Maybe Riches"
Speakers: Dr. David F. Juncker and Dick Saunders
Abstract: David and his wife Trudi spent two weeks in Mongolia this summer exploring the vast reaches of the Gobi Desert. He will show slides of this emerging country's infrastructure, its people and culture, and its strategic importance to both the East and the West as a potential major source of coal, rare-earth ores and other minerals.
Biographical Sketch: Dr. Juncker has combined worldwide travel with his multifaceted career as a researcher and consultant in both the private and public sectors, largely in human organ system response factors, especially vision, cardiovascular and neural-memory functions. Much of his work utilizes multi-variable problem analysis and complex or chaotic systems, terms used by futurists. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from MIT (1963) and a Ph. D.in Physiology from Minnesota (1971). Dr. Juncker has visited some 33 countries on either professional assignments or biking and trekking adventures. He's also an accomplished flutist and fencer, and wields a mean caulking gun.
REF:State Dept http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2779.htm
http://www.economist.com/node/21531521
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oyu_Tolgoi_mine
http://coalinvestingnews.com/1649/southgobi-positioned-next-to-worlds-largest-consumer-of-coal/
also scan through episode of HGTV's House Hunters International - good shots of Ulan Bator and the ger style of housing (David K) http://www.hgtv.com/video/adventure-in-ulan-bator-video/index.html
also see video of "Hunting Fox with Golden Eagles in Mongolia" - from BBC (Eric H) ~ 3 minute http://www.eaglehunter.co.uk/MoviePage_BBC.html
October 29, 2011
Topic: Peace and Justice Futures
Title: "Iraqi & American Reconciliation Project-"
Speaker: Luke Wilcox, Iraqi & American Reconciliation Project - Development & Communications Director
Abstract: Luke Wilcox spent 5 weeks in the summer of 2011 in Najaf, Iraq as an unarmed American working with the Muslim Peacemaker Teams (MPT), a non-profit organization based in Najaf. He was invited by Sami Rasouli, Iraqi-American director of the Muslim Peacemaker Teams and co-founder of the Iraqi and American Reconciliation Project (IARP) in Minneapolis. Luke will talk about his experience and what he heard and learned from Iraqis.
Ref: http://embeddedwithpeacemakers.com/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sami-rasouli/embedded-with-peacemakers_b_885227.html
http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/127070528.html
http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/212837/
http://reconciliationproject.org/october30houseparty/
November 5, 2011
Topic: Future Studies
Title: How does futures research incorporate cybernetic theory?
Presenter: George Kubik, PhD
Abstract: Join us this Saturday as we explore the subject of cybernetics in machines, biology, and humans. Starting with the ancient Greeks, we will examine cybernetic thinking through the 1800s, 1900s, the present, and into the future. The evolving principles of cybernetics will be presented using examples drawn from governors on steam engines, negative feedback cycles of thermostats, principles of deviation amplifying mutual causality, developing string theory and the creation of local physics. Join us as we explore the relationship(s) between futures studies and the multiple orders of cybernetics.
November 12, 2011
Topic: Economic & Finance Futures
Title: "The Neurobiology of Decision Making"
Presenter: Dr. Paul Glimcher: Nobel Conference Video
Moderator: David Keenan
Abstract: Professor Glimcher teaches Neural Science, Economics, and Psychology at New York University - In this talk he reports on studies that address how the brain sets economic values and processes of the decision making process.
Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eay55Cd7qzg&list=PLA1D7BD1295076BB1&index=6&feature=plpp_video
November 15, 2011 MN Futurist Board Meeting
Tuesday 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Knights of Columbus Hall
November 19, 2011
Topic: Technology Futures
Title: Super Conductivity Futures
Presenter: Mark Linafelter
Abstract: coming soon
November 26, 2011 No Meeting This Weekend
(Thanksgiving Long Weekend)
December 03, 2011
Topic: Future Studies
Title:The Future of Science Fiction as ‘Dangerous Literature’
Presenter:George Kubik, PhD
Abstract:
Will science fiction retain its role as ‘dangerous literature’ in the future? Or, will accelerating change continue to overtake science fiction, and perhaps displace it as the primary source of information about alternative futures? Should science fiction engage you in thinking about possible futures, or function primarily as a futures-oriented form of entertainment? Or, should it serve in still other roles!
Science fiction has long been regarded as the literature of change and a major precursor of evolving science, technology, and cultural futures. But rapidly accelerating change appears to be challenging the ability of science fiction writers to prepare us for alternative futures. Join us this Saturday as we address the history and future(s) of science fiction--and be prepared for engagement in a lively discussion.
December 10, 2011 MNF-leadin 10Decl11.ppt Note the Schedule. (David K)
Topic: Economic SIG
Title: 2012 Economic Outlook
Presenter: Roger Rydberg
Abstract:http://minnesotafuturists.pbworks.com/w/page/48713407/Dec%2010%202011%20Econ%20Sig%20Outline
December 17, 2011
Topic: Technology SIG - The Mind Body Connection
Title: Brain Gate
Presenters: Brian Toren and Hank Lederer
Abstract: This topic addresses the insertion of microchips in the brain to enable paraplegics and individuals who have received of prosthetics to control their environment through their thought process.
The SIG will begin with the playing of the 2011 Gustavus Adolphus Nobel presentation on the subject by John Donoghue: Henry Merritt Wriston Professor, Department of Neuroscience, and Director, Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, R.I.
The following quote from the Gustavus Adolphus web site: "For more than 20 years John Donoghue has conducted research on brain-computer interfaces, and his laboratory is internationally recognized as a leader in this field. His research investigates fundamental and translational aspects of cortical information processing that lead to skilled motor behavior and the way ensembles of neurons represent and transform information through their interactions within local regions and between the primary motor cortex and its major cortical input areas. His work helps to explain how networks of neurons compute motor actions and transform sensory and internal plans into specific movements of the limbs. One of the most significant breakthroughs in the field of neural interface systems occurred when Donoghue’s group restored the ability of a quadriplegic patient to operate computer cursors and robotic arms by imagining the movement." The session will begin with a showing of the video of Dr. Donoghue's presentation
Their will be a discussion afterwards addressing:
What the participants got from the video.
What the future holds (possible, probable, preferable)
And what unexpected consequences there may be.
See.
Dr Donoghue's presentation video