Embracing Humanism as a Vocation: Why I founded the Future Interpreters Initiative

At Future Interpreters Initiative (FTR-I), we believe that the most significant threat to our civilisation is not climate change, neither is it the rising tide of totalitarianism or artificial intelligence nor the risks associated with biological and nuclear warfare. It is ignorance. We are woefully ignorant about what matters, as is clear from the issues that surround us.

Today, a culture of prejudice colours public life. Conformity to orthodoxy and hostility to the freedom of the individual is on the rise. We are distracted by noise and care not for nuance. We do not know how to relate to one another. We have bound ourselves in systems that promote irrationality. We neglect our most fundamental, intergenerational responsibilities. And so we stand, collectively, opposed to the progress of humankind.

To cure an illness, a remedy must be found. This can be done by taking a long-view of our civilisation as the issues we confront today have historical precedence. In another bygone era i.e. during the Medieval Ages (commonly remembered as a period of darkness and ignorance), when the individual was subservient to the tribe, state, and ideology, when reason was held captive to social customs and religious creed, and free-thinking was discouraged — humanism came to the rescue.

With its emphasis on the exercise of reason, the unfettered pursuit of scientific inquiry, and the cultivation of virtues, humanism ushered in an era of possibilities and cultural reform called the Renaissance. The state of our world has strengthened the need for a revival of humanism. Embracing humanism as a vocation will provide an anchor for fundamental values, for our future generations.

From the standpoint of a conventional not-for-profit enterprise, FTR-I is a most humanistic initiative. Members without virtues, contributors without a vision, and researchers without a universal outlook will not be at home at FTR-I. Here, a balance in thought and action is promoted. Faith in human ingenuity and creativity is nurtured. And respect for all of humanity is mandated. Most of all, there is abundant intellectual freedom to pursue long-term, humanistic goals and fulfil FTR-I’s vision for future generations. We make no unreasonable promises, but a declaration of our intention. FTR-I is a home for people who believe in the greatness of humanity, just as they do in the goodness of the human spirit.

This post originally appeared here on October 29, 2020.