We have entered the Planetary Phase of Civilization. Strands of interdependence are weaving humanity and Earth into a single community of fate—the overarching proto-country herein christened Earthland. In the unsettled twenty-first century, the drama of… Read More »Journey to Earthland: The Great Transition to Planetary Civilization
The planetary phase of history has begun, but the future shape of global society remains profoundly uncertain. Though perhaps improbable, a shift toward a planetary civilization of enriched lives, human solidarity, and environmental sustainability is… Read More »Great Transition: The Promise and Lure of the Times Ahead
The evolutionary paths of social-ecological systems comprise periods of structural continuity punctuated by moments of convulsive change. Various forms of systemic global shock could materialize in the coming decades, triggered by the climate crisis, social… Read More »Global Discontinuity: Time for a Paradigm Shift in Global Scenario Analysis
What does the longest arc of history tell us about our global moment? In his opening essay, David Christian explores how the Big History framework illuminates where we are and clarifies what we must do.… Read More »Big History and Great Transition
The Forum reflects on humanity’s rapacious disregard for and commodification of our fellow creatures. Eileen Crist’s opening essay illuminates the historical, philosophical, and political dimensions, arguing that nurturing solidarity with (other) animals stands as a… Read More »Solidarity with Animals
Twenty years ago, the essay Great Transition: The Promise and Lure of the Times Ahead imagined alternative scenarios for the twenty-first century. Now, we stand partway into that unknown future, witnesses to the actual path… Read More »Which Future Are We Living In?
