RETHINKING LIVING

RETHINKING LIVING: We are all feeling massive change across just about every aspect of our lives. Climate change, the destruction of biodiversity, the coronavirus pandemic and technological disruptions present threats, but more importantly, an opportunity to focus on grand challenges, to embrace deeper meaning, and to rediscover overlooked aspects of our lives. These challenges also provide a pivotal opportunity to think about what our “new normal” could, would and even should look like and how we need to adapt. How do we envision and actually get to the post-Anthropocene in which societal conditions and planetary health exist in a harmonious relationship?

RETHINKING LIVING convenes scientists, industry experts and outstanding global thinkers from ETH Zurich and across the world. Together, we re-think different conceptions of living, re-evaluate life choices, and re-consider the changes we would like to see in a post-pandemic world. What are the implications beyond the realm of natural sciences and engineering? Will the technologies and tools we choose to deploy build a more sustainable, resilient and equitable world? Even in this complex world of digital networks, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, the value of human creativity and collaborative effort is evident.

RETHINKING LIVING invites us to touch the core meaning of our existence, to determine humankind’s place in the universe, and to foster a sense of purpose.