Personal Blog of Joe Brewer

Archive for September, 2011|Monthly archive page

Want to Change the World? Study Deep History

In Economic Patterns, Global Integration, Social Change on September 29, 2011 at 6:26 pm

Those who fail to study history are doomed to repeat it.  We’ve all heard this adage and many among us take to heart the wisdom of looking backward as a vital practice for understanding the future.  As a student of global systems, I’ve followed the rabbit deep down its dark hole on more than one occasion.  And I’ve always come back to the surface better able to navigate the terrain with the perspectives gained by doing so.

But what of deep history?  Why must we understand the origins of the universe, evolution of stars and planets, and geologic forces in order to grapple with contemporary social issues?  The answer — to be succinct — is that only such a broad backdrop will reveal the landscape for potential action today. Continue reading “Want to Change the World? Study Deep History” »

Are We Missing A Vital Piece?

In Collaboration, Global Integration, Human Behavior, Social Change, Video Blog on September 21, 2011 at 11:35 pm

What if there was something vital missing in our efforts to address global challenges in the 21st Century?  What if it were simple to create?  And what if all the pieces are ready to be assembled now?

 I’m looking for collaborators, financial sponsors, and an innovative academic institution to create this.  Would you like to be part of it?  Let’s talk…

Understanding Phase Transitions for Social Change

In Complex Systems, Economic Patterns, Global Integration, Social Change on September 8, 2011 at 4:12 pm

The great challenges of the 21st Century are systemic in nature.  From ecological decline to cybersecurity in a digital age, the patterns of change we must grapple with are profoundly complex.  Change agents will need to understand how change unfolds in complex systems in order to promote political and economic stability during these turbulent times.

I recently hosted a call with several futures strategists about the nature of phase transitions in social systems.  We met to talk about what is known about phase transitions in physical systems and the lessons they can teach us for promoting cultural shifts in society. Continue reading “Understanding Phase Transitions for Social Change” »