Imagining Symbiocentric Futures: International Scholars at the 10th Futurologie Symposium.
Oliver Szasz, co-founder of Anthrotopia and former co-founder of Symbio(s)cene, delivered a keynote presentation at the 10th Futurologie Symposium, held from October 12–14, 2023, at Amsterdam’s renowned venues Ruigoord and Paradiso. The symposium’s theme for 2023, “Towards the Symbiocene?”, encouraged reflection on new ways for humans and nature to coexist, emphasizing regenerative and interconnected futures.
In his keynote, “From Symbiocentric Visions to Transformative Change,” Szasz explored how artistic approaches can act as catalysts for imagining symbiocentric futures and inspiring tangible transformative action. He emphasized, “Art and Design can make the abstract tangible, showing us what symbiocentric futures might look and feel like.”
Oliver Szasz’s keynote presentation explored artistic approaches as catalysts for envisioning symbiocentric futures and inspiring transformative action.
Transdisciplinary Perspectives on the Meaning and Potential of the Symbiocene.
The symposium brought together a wide array of perspectives on the Symbiocene, a concept coined in 2011 by Australian philosopher Glenn Albrecht in response to the Anthropocene. The term envisions an era in which humans exist in a symbiotic relationship with nature, affirming the interconnectedness of all life. Distinguished speakers included Glenn Albrecht; author and historian Philipp Blom; ecology activist Timothy Morton; design and transformation professor Caroline Hummels; and biodesigner and entrepreneur Emma van der Leest. Participants also included international scholars, Indigenous activists, artists, authors, designers, historians, and political ecologists. The program featured lectures, panel discussions, workshops, performances, exhibitions, and interactive installations, creating immersive spaces for dialogue, experimentation, and reflection.
Australian philosopher Glenn Albrecht (left), who coined the term Symbiocene, presented his philosophical thoughts on the topic in person at the 10th Futurologic Symposium 2023 in Amsterdam.
Another highlight was the presentation delivered by German author, historian, and journalist Philipp Blom, who discussed his latest book, “Die Unterwerfung: Anfang und Ende der menschlichen Herrschaft über die Natur,” scheduled for publication in English in the near future.
TAKE-AWAY:
The 10th Futurologie Symposium 2023 demonstrated the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and creative practice in shaping regenerative futures. It highlighted that envisioning a Symbiocene world is not only a theoretical exercise but also an artistic, experiential, and actionable endeavor — where ideas, practices, and imagination converge to inspire change.
Oliver Szasz in conversation with Glenn Albrecht.
Image Source: © 2023 Oliver Szasz
