The Way the Future Was

Explore how perceptions of the future have dramatically shifted from the optimistic visions of the late 19th century through the Space Race to today's more neutral or pessimistic outlook in this keynote conference talk from GOTO Copenhagen 2025. Discover why our collective view of tomorrow has changed so fundamentally, moving from an era where the future was painted with possibility and innovation to our current state of uncertainty. Examine the future through the lens of the past as speakers Kevlin Henney and James Lewis, both seasoned program committee members, investigate this cultural transformation in our relationship with progress and technological advancement. Learn about the historical context that shaped previous generations' bright expectations for the future, when innovation and craftsmanship flourished and failure was rarely discussed. Understand the factors contributing to today's more cautious or gloomy perspective on what lies ahead. Analyze how the future actually comes to be, moving beyond mere speculation to examine the mechanisms and processes that shape our tomorrow. Consider alternative visions for how the future could unfold, offering a more nuanced understanding of the possibilities that lie before us in technology, society, and human progress.