Horizons2020
Thinking Ahead
People have always speculated about life in the future. Siemens has begun to search for answers and, with a communications scenario called Horizons2020, to study what life will be like in the world of tomorrow. At Siemens’ request, TNS Infratest interviewed experts from all across Europe about the economic, political, technological, and social developments of the next fifteen years.
The Realm of Possibility for Life in Tomorrow’s World
The results of the survey were compiled into two very different pictures of the future, showing the vast range of possible developments and their impact on everyday life in the year 2020. The resulting pictures of life in 2020 are exciting and varied.
The two images of the future are logical and diametrically opposed, describing the vast range of possible future developments. The most probable developments lie somewhere between these two extremes, in the “realm of possibility” of what the future is likely to hold.
Horizon1, the first of the two pictures of the future, assumes continued strong government and a society that attaches considerable importance to solidarity and sustainability. In Horizon2, society is highly flexible and market-oriented and assumes a high level of individual responsibility.
Fostering Dialogue about the Future
Horizons2020 offers many opportunities for dialogue and discussion. It also shows that the future doesn’t come about by chance – that what we do today is determining how we will live tomorrow. With Horizons2020, we want to foster open dialogue and encourage readiness – especially among the younger generations – to take an active role in shaping a future worth living and taking responsibility for that future. Although this particular project is more focused on social and political aspects, it also incorporates technology and our
Pictures of the Future.
What will life be like in the world of tomorrow? The Horizons2020 study provides answers.