Conference: Thoughts of Tomorrow

“Thoughts of Tomorrow” was a conference held last November 1 that united scholars from various institutions to discuss interdisciplinary perspectives on technology, politics, art, gender, and society, and their roles in shaping the future.

It was hosted by the Lehman Center for American History, sponsored by ISERP, and organized by doctoral students Juliana Torres and Lelia Roche from Columbia’s History Department in collaboration with Nicholas Vachon from the American Studies Department.

The students organized this conference in the hope that it would illuminate new ways for them to think about the future. They also wanted to offer a safe space for panelists and participants to openly discuss topics that are often anxiety-provoking when considered alone.

The Conference

Professor Matthew Connelly, History professor and Director of Columbia’s Centre for the Study of Existential Threats, opened the event, emphasizing the importance of foresight in addressing global challenges.

“Technology and the Future" addressed the ethical and innovative impacts of technological advancements. It was moderated by Professor Daniel Kelly (UC Berkeley) and featured Angus Burgin and Jacob Bruggeman from Johns Hopkins University and Amira Moeding (University of Cambridge).

"Politics of Tomorrow" explored future political scenarios, governance issues, and societal adaptability. Alma Steingart from Columbia provided commentary, and panelists included Emma Bates and Henry Schmidt (UC Berkeley), and Micah Blaichman (NYU).

"Art and Thinking Ahead" centered around artistic expression's role in shaping future values and social norms. It was moderated by David Reynolds (CUNY) and featured insights from Juan Suárez Ontaneda (Bryn Mawr), Harry Hall (Harvard), and Victoria Dadet (Columbia).

"Sex, Gender, and a Broader Future," discussed identity, equity, and future societal structures through inclusive dialogues. It was Margaret D. Stetz (University of Delaware), featured Wesley Cornwell (Columbia), Hatim Rachdi (Yale), and Courtney Barter-Colcord (Princeton),

"The Future of Society” addressed global societal trends and proactive strategies for existential threats. It was again commented on by Matthew Connelly and included Michael Brown (RIT), Pilar Damião de Medeiros (University of the Azores), and Anna Diem (Geneva Graduate Institute).