Guessing About the Future: National Intelligence Council - Global Trends

Speculating about the future is fun and has proved to be the basis of many works of "science fiction" and other literature. Some projections however, are used to drive strategies and raise concerns that government agencies might have to address. As the cliche goes, "the only sure thing is change."

One group that engages in speculation (driven by observed trends) is the National Intelligence Council which, on occasion, puts out a publication discussing the future. The latest edition follows. As you read over it, you might ask, "What did they get right?" "What did they get wrong?" and "What did they leave out?"

Happy reading!

Global Trends 2030: Alternative Worlds by Office of the Director of National Intelligence

It might also be useful for you to read this Chatham House prepared report (pdf format) US National Security Impacts of Natural Resources in 2020, 2030, and 2040.

Read those things and you will have done a day's work.

Interesting Video: "Beyond Software: The Future of Conflict"

On my MP3 player is the audiobook version Peter Singer's Wired for War: The Robotics Revolution and Conflict in the 21st Century .

Below is a YouTube video of Mr. Singer leading a discussion with Admiral James Stavridis, USN (ret), Ms, Helen Greiner (iRobot co-founder), Col. Greg Conti, USA (Cyber Research Center, USMA) and investor/entrepreneur Yossi Vari on the topic of "Beyond Software: The Future of Conflict" - which makes some very interesting points. Enjoy!

DEF2013

If you haven't been watching the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum live sessions then you have been missing some excellent discussion led by some talented young people - you ought to go to their Livecast! LIVECAST! | DEF2013. Video from the first day also available for later viewing.