On: who will own the future, great networking tips and more

This issue was first sent to my newsletter subscribers.

It consists of 5 paragraphs on a mix of practical frameworks, principles, captivating stories and other things I find interesting.

Each issue is designed to either spark your curiosity and broaden your understanding of different facets of life, or inspire you and help you design and live a fulfilling life.

1-On who will own the future

Humans are social creatures. We naturally form groups wherever we go. Throughout history, these groups have evolved alongside technological advancements.

• Early humans: Small bands of hunter-gatherers.
• Agriculture and domestication: Larger groups formed, enabled by food production.
• Metallurgy: Tools and ornaments facilitated further group organization, possibly fueled by a desire to impress others.

These advancements culminated in the Bronze Age, with the rise of the first cities and civilizations.

Cities then grew into regional states and empires.

Over time, advancements in manufacturing, transportation, and communication led to the development of more complex nations.

Until the 15th-16th centuries, governments and states primarily financed and developed technological advancements, reaping the benefits.

However, from the 16th century onwards, individuals began forming corporations to conduct business.

The 18th century's Industrial Revolution saw the emergence of "superstates" and global empires, wielding newly developed technologies to conquer and control vast territories.

A crucial theme emerges: technological progress drives societal changes both in political, social and economic life.

Today, corporations hold immense power, particularly in prosperous societies.

They influence, and sometimes control, nearly every aspect of our lives, from our homes and clothing to our food.

This influence stems from direct control of production or by shaping the political landscape that dictates laws and regulations.

However, the past quarter-century has witnessed a shift.

New technologies, particularly social media, have empowered individuals.

Social media platforms provide a powerful voice, granting both political and economic influence.

• Political Influence: media platform owners like Elon Musk can now challenge governments, wield global influence, and even defy state actors.
• Economic Influence: individuals can leverage social media and technology to produce and distribute goods and services on a scale rivaling corporations. Additionally, blockchain technology promises to allow individuals to create currencies outside of government control. Artificial intelligence will further empower individuals in the future.

The convergence of these trends points towards a future where individuals wield far greater power than before, potentially surpassing corporations and states – the current dominant entities. We may see the rise of "sovereign individuals," who, like today's sovereign states, will exercise independent political and economic power, potentially outside the reach of governments.

The future, therefore, doesn't belong solely to nations like China, the USA, or India, but to empowered individuals.

If you are a young professional, you can position yourself by investing in your digital literacy, and experiment with the different new technologies that are defining this future I talk about.

I wrote about what work could be like in this new paradigm a few years ago here and here.

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