Knowmads, Infocology of the future

Inspiration and interpretation are inevitable. As metaphor is basic to what we do, so emerging results in neuroscience will be taken well beyond the intentions and even meanings of their authors. Much caution and critique will be needed. Yet at the same time, I want to preserve a space for this other mantle, from science to art and humanism. To creation and design and expression.

A revolution based on neuroscience? No. A recognition of our bodies and experiences and senses? Yes. And thus much closer to metaphors that inspire us every day. Like HOME or WARMTH. And maybe even a tree or two.

The next generation is growing up in a collaborative world and are instinctual in their use of collective intelligence and networks. We have become ‘informational hunters and gatherers” (Jenkins, 2006, location 2480) and while elder generations may still be isolated in old media, the younger generations, and especially gamers, are learning to work together in a way we have never done before. Games bring people together and allow for collaboration in problem solving, a skill that many of us could benefit in practicing.