4th APFN: Asia Re-imagined - Jasmine Executive Suites, Bangkok

28-29 August 2018

This 4th APFN seeks to understand the changing futures of Asia. In contrast to those who engage in the realpolitik of the short term: this conference focuses on the imagination of Asia. How is it imagined now, and how might it be imagined in the future. What might Asia look like in 2038, for example. Furthermore, through disruptions we explore how the imagination of Asia might transform. For example, how might the shift to solar energy and intelligent/autonomous cars transform the design of Asian cities? Will Asian cities become green, smart, and clean? How might disruptions in capitalism - the shift toward the sharing economy, for example, transform the economic landscape of Asia? Will advances in AI create new jobs or ensure a jobless future for all? Will meditation and yoga by integrating our various selves not only lead to inner bliss but enhance productivity?

While policymakers often desire precise answers to these questions, futurists have learned that these are best answered as alternative futures, as scenarios of the possible, plausible and preferred. Along with alternative futures, case studies of foresight in practice from government, the private sector, and the community arena will be highlighted.