News
Distinguished Public Lecture: 'The World in 2050'
14 Jan 2009
The 21st Century School's first Distinguished Public Lecture of 2009 will be given by Lord Martin Rees, President of the Royal Society, and author of the claim that 'the odds are no better than 50/50 that our present civilisation will survive to the end of the present century.'
By 2050, growing populations will engender major global tensions unless new and appropriate technologies are urgently adopted. Rising demands for energy, food and water could irreversibly degrade the Earths' biosphere. Yet, scientific understanding will have been greatly enhanced. Individuals will be increasingly empowered by technology that potentially offers huge benefits, while posing novel ethical dilemmas.
With the world population is predicted to reach 9.2 billion by 2050 and science quickly becoming a truly global culture, Lord Rees' lecture will address the dangers and opportunities we face in the 21st century.
'The World in 2050' will take place on Monday 23 February, 5pm - 6.30pm, in Oxford's newly restored Sheldonian Theatre.
The event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. To reserve your place please visit our events registration page.