Prof. Stephen Carpenter: 4. Human imagination

4. Human imagination

Scenario processes

While continuing his studies on lakes, Prof. Carpenter has also studied methods to create better environmental preservation plans through a working group on scenarios.

Generally, environmental preservation plans are developed by setting clear targets and using specialized knowledge along with computer models. However, such plans often lack consideration for regional conditions, the feelings of residents, and future visions. To address these shortcomings, in the scenario project being conducted by Prof. Carpenter and others, human imagination is utilized to creatively consider the complex and uncertain future that may arise.

The working group on scenarios begins by listening to people. They invite a diverse group of individuals of different ages, profession, and social positions to gather together and ask them about their vision for the future environment and what concerns they have about it. Scientists, sociologists, artists and other residents come together to discuss the future of the region. Through these discussions, people realize that individuals in different positions have varying ideas and ways of thinking. Based on these individual opinions, they create a story about the future together. Computer models and scientific knowledge are incorporated into this story, and with the help of artists, the story is polished and becomes more moving. Prof. Carpenter believes that this process of creating a story together is crucial because people who are moved by the story will take action.

In fact, Prof. Carpenter and other members expressed the story through text, a movie, and a theatrical play performed by children, and presented them to the public. Explaining environmental issues in easy understandable forms is a good way to determine our future together.

Communication ability

Prof. Carpenter thinks that children are the hope for the future. To improve the global environment, it is necessary to gain knowledge in a wide range of areas, such as science, mathematics, and computers. It is also important to have the ability to communicate well, to touch people's hearts. As Prof. Carpenter did with the members of the working group on scenarios, moving others' hearts will lead to the next movement.

Please use your ability to communicate your ideas and take action to take the world in a better direction.

Editor-in-chief: Itaru Yasui, Former Vice-Rector, United Nations University / Professor Emeritus, The University of Tokyo
Address from the Editor-in-Chief
Editorial supervisor: Kanehiro Kitayama, Professor Emeritus, Kyoto University; (Affiliation is at that time of release.)