2032: Five Technologies that Will Reshape the World in the Next Decade
The seminar is focused on the skills required to be an entrepreneurial leader over the next decade (2032).
E.O. Wilson observed that the ‘real problem of humanity is that we have Paleolithic emotions, medieval institutions and godlike technology.’ This seminar will examine 5 recently developed ‘godlike technologies’ that have passed commercial viability and are on- track to change the foundations of business and society by 2032. It will do so in the context of 2 trends that have the same disruptive potential – climate change and demographic shifts.
By the end of the seminar students should have a basic understanding of how these technologies work, how fast they are evolving, how they interact with each other and how they intersect with the problems of climate change and demographic shifts.
We will develop a limited set of hands-on exercises that enable students to experience the power of these approaches. For example, students could be asked to develop an AI model for detecting a disease, create deep fakes or train a computer to analyze an HBS case. Students could also create their own currency by launching a crypto token or spend time with an emotion-hacking bot or observe the process of using CRISPR to change biology.
Class Notes:Students interested in cross-registering into HBSMBA courses may submit petitions starting Wednesday, January 18. Petitions are due by Tuesday, January 24at 6pm. In addition to submitting a petition, you must provide a resume/CV and statement of interest in order to be considered for this course. Please email those items toSusan Backus: sbackus@hbs.edu. Should you be admitted to this course, please note that you will be charged a course fee ($100 per 1.5 credit course/$200 per 3 credit course).General information about HBS cross-registration policies can be found athttp://www.crossreg.hbs.edu. This course will be accepting auditors. Please contact the faculty to request approval.Should you be admitted to this course as an auditor, please note that you will be charged a course fee ($100 per 1.5 credit course/$200 per 3 credit course). For more information on the complete audit request process, visit http://www.crossreg.hbs.edu.