Intelligence Squared: Experts look towards 2050

01 July 2009

In an exciting new partnership, the 21st Century School is collaborating with Intelligence Squared, an influential and provocative London debating forum, to hold a panel discussion entitled, "The World in 2050". The event will bring together 21st Century School academics at the cutting edge of their field for a fascinating evening of lively discussion and debate on some of the biggest questions facing humankind.

These experts will reveal just how much we already know about what the world will look like in 2050, asking questions such as: Will we still be a fossil fuel civilisation? What societal changes will we see once half the world's population is over 50? Will we be able to slow, or even halt, the ageing process itself? Will genetic enhancements to improve intelligence or resistance to disease be widespread?

The evening's discussions will be chaired by Jack Klaff, a former professor of the public understanding of science at Starlab in Brussels, and an actor, writer and director. Panellists include:

  • Dr Ian Goldin, 21st Century School Director
  • Dr Malcolm McCulloch, Institute for Carbon and Energy Reduction in Transport.
  • Professor Sarah Harper, Oxford Institute of Ageing.
  • Professor Julian Savulescu, Programme on Ethics of the New Biosciences

The World in 2050 takes place on Tuesday 22 September, at the Royal Geographical Society, London. Doors open at 6:15 pm. The discussion starts at 6:45 pm and finishes at 8:30 pm. Tickets cost £25 each and can be purchased from Intelligence Squared.

Please contact events@21school.ox.ac.uk or info@intelligencesquared.com for further information.

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