Unraveling Futures Through Dialogues & Social Networking Like The Ancient Greeks
Symposium or Das Gastmahl des Platon by Anselm Feuerbachm, 1869
In the realm of envisioning futures, there is a unique richness that unfolds in personal conversations. Participatory and collective imagination are the bedrock of futures work, but let's not underestimate the power of genuine dialogue in sculpting our visions.
Relaxed conversations ignite richer futures insights.
An in-depth conversation is a treasure trove of insights, a sacred space where ideas flow freely, unencumbered by the noise of larger forums nor the time constraints that may come with workshopping. Whether it’s a one-on-one or a roundtable, it's in these more open exchanges that the wisdom of others surfaces, offering perspectives and nuances that might be lost in the collective buzz.
Through these dialogues, we might discover an overlooked signal or driver of change, an insight, image or experience that might inspire ways to stretch scenarios. The collisions that occur through meandering conversations, animated exchanges, debates and provocations have always been the engines of intellectual and creative pursuits - it should be no different in the practice of foresight and futures.
In recent Dialogical Research around City Futures, for example, so much was revealed in terms of the different perspectives around seemingly straightforward concepts like mobility and transportation. The urban planner had a myriad of views from the perspective of smart, eco and pleasant journey experiences whereas the working mother had much to share about the longing for efficiencies in her race against time as it relates to her days, her relationships and her own wellbeing. These details, often revealed through stories, add so much texture to the imagining of scenarios.
The ancient Greeks, known for their profound pursuit of knowledge, held a special place for the exchange of wisdom through symposia.
These gatherings, combining elements of both revelry and intellectual discourse, were a cornerstone of Greek culture, particularly during the Classical period. Symposia were not merely social events; they were platforms where the exchange of ideas, philosophy, and wisdom flourished amidst the clinking of cups and spirited dialogues.
At the heart of the symposium was the belief that the convergence of diverse minds in a convivial setting sparked intellectual synergy. Participants, often a mix of philosophers, poets, and statesmen, engaged in dialogue that transcended the boundaries of individual disciplines. The symposium was a microcosm of Greek society, reflecting the harmony they sought between the physical, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of life.
In the context of futures thinking, the ancient Greek symposia offer a compelling model. The emphasis on dialogue and the sharing of diverse perspectives in more intimate setting complements the principles of participatory and collaborative futures work. The Greeks understood that innovation and insight emerge not only from solitary contemplation but also from the interplay of varied viewpoints.
The symposium model encourages a holistic approach to futures thinking. It recognizes that the future is not a singular path but a tapestry woven with threads of different ideas and visions. In our contemporary pursuit of envisioning and shaping the future, adopting the spirit of the ancient Greek symposium can inspire a more inclusive, dynamic, and insightful approach. By fostering spaces where unconstrained exchanges converge, we can tap into a breadth and depth of wisdom necessary for navigating the complexities of tomorrow.
Here, we share a few insights in recreating the spirit of the symposium as a social and intellectual gathering to engage in philosophical and experiential discussions in an open environment (yes, even when done online).
1. Come with Intellectual Curiosity and Critical Thinking:
Encourage a spirit of intellectual curiosity among participants by grounding the conversation in humility and a genuine desire for discovery. Demonstrate open-mindedness and a willingness to explore diverse ideas, even those that challenge conventional thinking. The ancient Greeks approached questioning with Socratic inquiry, valuing critical thinking. They sought not just answers but a deeper understanding, using dialogue to stimulate intellectual curiosity, challenge assumptions, and uncover profound truths in pursuit of wisdom.
2. Embrace Philosophical Discourse and Debate:
Foster an environment where participants engage in meaningful philosophical discourse. Encourage the exchange of ideas, gentle debates, and discussions that may sometimes go off-tangent but eventually circle back into individual perceptions of reality. Create a space where differing opinions are respected and explored.
3. Everything Is Culture:
Introduce lateral ideas by including discussions around culture, be they experiences and expressions. After all, everything IS culture as human behaviors, beliefs, and creations shape the world. From language and customs to art and technology, cultural influences are omnipresent, weaving a tapestry that defines our collective existence. Design the experience: just as the Greeks celebrated poetry, music, and other forms of artistic expression during symposia, incorporate elements of culture into your gatherings to provoke conversation.
4. Connection and Camaraderie:
Cultivate a sense of camaraderie and genuine connection among participants, even through online conversation. The symposium was not only a forum for intellectual exchange but also a social gathering that promoted friendship and community. Create an environment where people feel comfortable sharing personal experiences and forming meaningful connections. As part of Futures Research, these exploratory dialogues can be more relaxed, welcoming a warm cup, a glass of wine, a meal shared for the moment.
5. Allow For Time and Space - In Moderation:
When conversing as part of Futures Research, have those three core questions that are open-ended and allow for a “disciplined meandering”, redirecting the discussion when necessary through follow up questions tailored to the context of the conversation. Make time for thoughtful pauses. Unless the person(s) you are conversing with is not bound by a schedule, be mindful of the time even in the midst of an engaging chat, just as you would with a busy friend.
Ultimately, open dialogues to explore futures are like conversations with friends, at once a reminiscence and a sharing of hopes. It's the personal narratives, the quiet reflections, and the shared dreams that stitch together the fabric of our collective future. Holding the space for these heartfelt conversations is part of a responsible exploration of futures and scenarios - it is a good reminder to ourselves to make the time for these.
*Video from National Geographic Education: “Social Networking in Ancient Greece”