Editor's Note
Substack, in its essence, resembles a vibrant railway station. Each platform bustles with a myriad of trains, each charting its unique course. Every newsletter stands as a distinct stop, where fellow voyagers hop on and off. As the driver of this train, my primary endeavor is to ensure that every leg of your journey is not only comfortable but also intriguing, enlightening, and filled with memorable episodes.
A quick update: We've grown from 500 to 700 passengers since our last article, The Challenge of Building Morally Responsible Machines. Your continued support means the world. Additionally, I've stepped away from Twitter and have dedicated a special section on the blog for chess enthusiasts. Dive in, and thank you for being on this journey with me.🫶
The Renaissance stands as an emblem of transformation—a time that shone brightly upon the pages of human history. As Genesis 1:3 declares, “Let there be light,” and so the Renaissance bathed us in enlightenment. But in its wake came trials and tribulations.
The only constant in this universe is change, and change is the cosmos’s astute companion, aware of the pace required to reach its destination at the right time. Everything has a conclusion. One day, perhaps after several billion years, the radiance of the sun will also meet its inevitable end. However, before that, we, as the sentient inhabitants of this universe, bear the responsibility to prepare our species for the sun’s demise. We must not permit what we have been cultivating since our inception to vanish without a trace.
I understand that it may seem premature to contemplate what will transpire billions of years from now, especially when we’re confronted with more immediate existential threats, but as an intelligent species, we must ready ourselves for eventualities far beyond the present. And by existential threats, I’m not referring to Intelligence Explosion or Goal Misalignment, or any other doomsday scenarios that frequently dominate today’s headlines. Rather, I’m suggesting that these threats are often not external. They arise from within us, from our very nature:
🎯 The collective progress and inventions birthed from our minds could potentially turn against us.
Does this sentiment seem speculative? 🤔
Consider the numerous challenges we face:
Nuclear War: Nuclear war isn't just a topic for history books or dystopian novels. The chilling reality is that the detonation of these superweapons could erase cities in a heartbeat, leaving behind a scarred Earth and untold environmental nightmares.
Bioengineered Pandemic: While nature has its own arsenal of diseases, there's a new player on the horizon: bioengineered viruses. Whether emerging from a lab mishap or darker intentions, these designer pandemics could rewrite our global story in a tragic way.
Climate Change: Our planet is heating up, and it's more than just a summer fling. Imagine coasts swallowed by the ocean, once-thriving forests turned to ash, and storms that dance with a fury we've never seen. That's the world climate change promises if left unchecked.
Falling Global Birthrates: A future with silent playgrounds and vacant schools might sound like fiction, but falling birthrates are painting this picture. With fewer young shoulders to carry the weight of society, economies could falter and societies might waver.
🌪 The winds of change blow gently, akin to a warm summer breeze, gradually intensifying at the crossroads of autumn to unleash their full force. As we stand on the precipice of this transformation, it is incumbent upon us to be prepared. The power to steer the course of this transformative wave lies within our grasp, and it requires us to consider a multitude of factors.
For instance, we must reassess societal values or beliefs that may have become obsolete or dysfunctional. Additionally, systemic issues pervading various institutions warrant our attention and reform. In essence, we are not merely passive observers of change but active participants shaping the contours of our collective future.
We stand on the precipice of a new era, a Renaissance 2.0. As history often repeats itself, we are on the cusp of experiencing another transformative period akin to the Renaissance, emphasizing the union of biology and binary—the evolution of augmented humanity. As we tread this path, we must embrace the qualities that marked the original Renaissance: tranquility, balance, and harmony.
These elements not only shaped the art and culture of the Renaissance but also symbolized the era’s emphasis on human potential and intellectual growth. By integrating these principles, we aim to foster an environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and balanced growth.
The number of civilization rebirths that lie ahead on this arduous and challenging path remains unknown. Yet today, we are scripting the code for the second iteration of the Renaissance. The workload is immense, and we are far from completion. Before we roll out the operational version, it will undergo numerous tests. However, we approach the assigned tasks with fervor, and as a result, the expectations are lofty.
DID YOU KNOW?
Figures portrayed in Renaissance paintings adhere to symmetry, devoid of irregular forms, vague impressions, or unclear thoughts. In Renaissance artistry, everything had to be accurate, reinforced, beautiful, and ideal. The composition is symmetrical, constructed based on geometric principles, predominantly employing the triangle and circle. The form of the figures is voluminous and realistic, crafted with an understanding of anatomy. One senses harmony and inner peace; the laws of perspective are upheld. The color palette is subdued, devoid of stark contrasts. The artistic principles of the Renaissance manifested with varying degrees of intensity across nearly all European nations.
🤝 Renaissance Individualism and Future Collaboration
The concept of the individual as we understand it today was indeed born during the Renaissance. Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic drawing, the Vitruvian Man, encapsulates this idea perfectly. The image of a man enclosed within a perfect square and circle symbolizes independence and self-sufficiency, embodying the ideal of the Renaissance.
The future offered by the next Renaissance may see a shift from an emphasis on individual achievements to a focus on collaborative efforts, driven by interconnected communities. Advancements in AI, the rise of decentralized platforms, and the growing influence of open-source ideologies suggest a potential trend towards collective action. These technologies seem to be nudging us away from centralized models, favoring instead a networked approach where value creation emerges from diverse contributors across the globe.
🤖 Defining Artificial Intelligence: A Conundrum
The AI landscape is riddled with varying opinions and perspectives, further complicating its integration into society. A few days ago, an article titled ‘Why everyone seems to disagree on how to define Artificial General Intelligence’ was featured in Fast Company, delving into the intricacies surrounding the definition and understanding of artificial intelligence.
The article emphasizes that everyone’s definition of artificial intelligence is different as AI isn’t just one thing.
The article also suggests that artificial intelligence is best thought of not as an imperfect emulation of human intelligence, but rather as a distinct, alien form of intelligence, whose contours and capabilities differ from our own in basic ways.
Regrettably, we currently face a lack of consensus, a state of chaos where opinions clash like the swords of medieval crusaders, making it challenging to arrive at a shared viewpoint. The nature of what we create is inherently intricate. As a result, our digital reality is rife with binary heresy. The truth remains elusive to all, and it is for this reason that we are in dire need of the key attributes emblematic of the Renaissance: tranquility, balance, and harmony.
📢 Open-Source AI: A Call to Democratize Innovation
While there may not be a consensus, and opinions on this matter vary, to democratize the process and achieve an ideal Renaissance 2.0, I humbly believe that one more element of the Renaissance needs to be incorporated - the necessity of making artificial intelligence open-source.
“What has been will be again, what has happened will happen again; there is nothing new under the sun.” - Ecclesiastes 1:9
The distinction between the original Renaissance and the proposed new version lies primarily in the scale and terminology, given that the concept of “open-source” did not exist in that era. However, the fact that renowned artists allowed their apprentices to partake in the creation of their masterpieces is telling. Historical records affirm that it was not uncommon for students to contribute to a master’s work. For instance, Verrocchio, Leonardo’s mentor, permitted Leonardo to contribute to his piece “Baptism of Christ.” In this sense, it can be inferred that the spirit of open-source collaboration already existed, albeit in a nascent form.
Today, as technology is poised to play an even more pivotal role in our lives, it becomes essential to ensure that these technological advancements are not confined to the elite but are accessible to all. Open-source AI initiatives present us with a viable path to achieve this goal. Such projects not only democratize access to cutting-edge technology but also foster collaboration, driving collective growth and innovation.
🌄 Embracing the Next Renaissance
Renaissance 2.0, propelled by the inertia of our collective endeavors and aspirations, is an unavoidable destiny that humanity will inevitably embrace.
And in this destiny, we must recognize our roles. The epoch itself directs the events; we are but tools in its grand narrative. To control the processes and script a future of prosperity, Renaissance 2.0 will take up the bow of innovation, notching in it three arrows to be shot in three distinct directions: decentralization, democratization, and open-source. And the arrow, piercing the horizon with precision and purpose, will be a truly intelligent artificial intelligence:
Decentralization: In an era where information is power, decentralization aims to distribute that power among the masses. Gone are the days when a select few controlled the vast repositories of data and knowledge. Decentralization might manifest in the form of decentralized finance (DeFi) systems that give financial control back to individuals, or decentralized platforms that reduce the power of tech giants.
Democratization: This ensures that the tools and fruits of innovation are accessible to all, not just the elite. An example could be the democratization of technology, where advancements like the internet are made available to the global population, fostering global collaboration and shared growth.
Open-Source: This principle embodies the spirit of collective progress. Just as Linux transformed the software landscape by being open for all to modify and improve, the future will witness an increase in open-source projects that leverage global expertise for shared advancement.
Challenges: The path to Renaissance 2.0 is fraught with challenges. Decentralization might face resistance from centralized entities reluctant to relinquish control. Democratization demands a fine balance to ensure that quality doesn't diminish with increased accessibility. And while open-source is a beacon of collaboration, it also requires rigorous checks to ensure consistency and security.
In conclusion, humanity stands on the brink of another transformative era, an age of technological enlightenment reminiscent of the Renaissance. We must approach this opportunity with humility, embracing the principles that defined the original Renaissance—tranquility, balance, and harmony—to ensure a balanced integration of artificial intelligence into society. With these guiding principles, the promise of a brighter, more inclusive future awaits us.
Renaissance: The Rebirth of Art, Culture, and Thought
The Renaissance and Baroque periods have always held a special place in my heart. In fact, I was so entranced by these eras that I dedicated my Master’s thesis to them. While I could look deep into both, for the purpose of this section, I’ll zero in on the luminous tapestry of the Renaissance era. Join me on a captivating journey through its defining moments, keeping in mind that this is but a glimpse into the vast mosaic of wonders awaiting discovery.
The Renaissance, in essence, was a pivotal period that profoundly shaped the subsequent evolution of humanity. The Renaissance worldview was anchored in the tenets of individualism and humanism, which found their most profound expressions in literature and art.
Genesis of the Renaissance
The term “Renaissance” is derived from the French word for “rebirth”. The Renaissance, roughly spanning the 14th to 17th centuries, marked a transition from the religious rigidity of the Middle Ages to a period celebrating classical antiquity. Originating in regions like Tuscany, Italy, cities such as Florence were at its epicenter.
The Individual at the Center: The Rise of Humanism in the Renaissance
As urban life evolved and trade flourished, so did the importance of the individual. Personal virtues and qualities became the main determinants of one's societal standing. This emphasis on individual potential birthed the humanists, scholars who combined insights from the Middle Ages with classical knowledge.
The realization of human potential necessitated the liberty of action and thought. Scholars emerged who asserted that God designed humans for freedom, endowing them with the capacity to labor and construct, the intellect and talent to explore nature, the spiritual beauty to experience emotions, and the ability to love and create worldly goodness. Consequently, the individual became the focal point of attention. Faith in human abilities, talents, and strength intensified. These forward-thinking individuals were known as humanists. Humanists meticulously studied the accomplishments of the Middle Ages, as well as the literature, philosophy, and art of ancient Greece and Rome. They endeavored to unravel the mysteries of society and nature based on this knowledge.
KEY FEATURES
The Renaissance era shimmered with a tapestry of defining characteristics:
Humanism: Beyond just an intellectual movement, Humanism reshaped the cosmos, positioning humans as its core. It celebrated the inherent value and profound dignity of each individual.
Individualism: The era bore witness to a transformative shift, where individual accomplishments across the arts, sciences, and literature were not only acknowledged but celebrated.
Secularism: While the spiritual realm retained its significance, there emerged a pronounced tilt towards temporal affairs. This shift manifested vividly in artistic expressions, political ideologies, and evolving personal identities.
Patronage: The era's artistic efflorescence was largely fueled by generous benefactors. Wealthy luminaries, especially from the ecclesiastical circles and burgeoning merchant class, played muse to artists, triggering a cascade of creative brilliance.
Scientific Revolution: It wasn't just the arts that flourished. The period was a crucible for groundbreaking scientific endeavors. A fresh zeal for observation, hands-on experimentation, and challenging traditional paradigms became the order of the day.
Cultural Resurgence: The gilded tales and ethos of classical antiquity, especially those of the Greeks and Romans, found renewed admiration and study.
Artistic Innovations: The canvas of art underwent a radical transformation. A richer realism emerged, characterized by meticulous techniques such as perspective drawing, adept shadowing, and accurate human anatomical depictions. This period became the cradle for legends like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
KEY PLAYERS
The Renaissance era was marked by the contributions of several key figures:
Francesco Petrarch: Known as the "Father of Humanism", he greatly influenced Renaissance poetry and philosophy through his writings.
Leonardo da Vinci: A versatile genius, known for art like the "Mona Lisa", as well as innovations in various fields.
Michelangelo: Renowned for iconic works like the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the statue of David.
Nicolaus Copernicus: Revolutionized astronomy with his heliocentric model, challenging traditional geocentric views.
Catalysts and Causes:
The Dark Ages set the backdrop for the Renaissance. Challenges included socio-political chaos, economic challenges, and political instability. Key features were the influence of the Church, the feudal system, and political warfare.
Economic hardship, marked by the fall of Rome, resulted in diminished trade and learning. The feudal system emerged as a dominant structure, leading to social inequalities. The Church, while offering hope, also enforced its doctrines rigidly, growing in wealth and influence.
Critical events that shaped this era include:
Decline of Church Authority: Growing disillusionment due to the lavish lifestyles of Church officials and their political interventions.
Fall of Constantinople: Its conquest in 1453 by the Ottoman Empire had significant implications for European politics and trade.
Black Death: This devastating plague reshaped societal structures and thought."
Artistic Awakening: The Renaissance Impact on Art and Beyond
The Renaissance era was a period of remarkable creativity and innovation that gave rise to numerous masterpieces in various fields. Here are some of the greatest creations from this period:
Art
The Renaissance ushered in a golden era of art, producing many timeless masterpieces. Thanks to the support of rich nobles and the Church, artists honed their skills and experimented with fresh themes. Beyond just religious imagery, they explored nature, anatomy, and perspective. This era witnessed remarkable advancements in painting, sculpture, and architecture.
Some of the most celebrated masterpieces include:
The Mona Lisa: Painted by Leonardo da Vinci, this is arguably the most famous painting in the world. It’s renowned for its composition, the sitter’s enigmatic expression, and Da Vinci’s pioneering use of sfumato.
The Last Supper: Another masterpiece by Da Vinci, this mural depicts the moment Jesus announces that one of his Apostles would betray him. It’s celebrated for its dramatic staging and emotional intensity.
Statue of David: Created by Michelangelo, this sculpture is a testament to the artist’s detailed understanding of human anatomy and his ability to imbue stone with life-like qualities.
The Birth of Venus: Painted by Sandro Botticelli, this artwork represents the goddess Venus emerging from the sea as a fully grown woman. It’s admired for its beauty and for being one of the first non-religious nude paintings.
The Creation of Adam: This is a fresco painting by Michelangelo on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. It illustrates the Biblical creation narrative from the Book of Genesis in which God gives life to Adam.
Architecture
Renaissance architecture was characterized by order, proportion, and symmetry. Architects drew inspiration from classical Greek and Roman buildings, interpreting and adapting these styles to create new masterpieces. The period saw the emergence of many architectural elements that became hallmarks of Renaissance design - grand domes, symmetrical facades, colonnades, pediments, and geometrically shaped windows. Advancements in engineering allowed architects to design monumental structures with expansive interior spaces. Some of the most iconic examples that exemplify Renaissance architectural achievements include:
St. Peter’s Basilica: Located in Vatican City, it’s one of the largest churches in the world and a fine example of Renaissance architecture.
Palazzo Farnese: This is one of the most important High Renaissance palaces in Rome. Its design is attributed to Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and Michelangelo.
Palazzo Medici Riccardi: Designed by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo, it’s known for its stone masonry that includes both ashlar and rustication.
Château de Chambord: Located in France, it’s one of the most recognizable châteaux in the world because of its distinctive French Renaissance architecture.
Literature
The Renaissance period saw a flourishing of literature and writing. Humanist scholars emphasized studying ancient Greek and Roman texts, which influenced many writers. Vernacular languages gained prominence over Latin. Printing technologies enabled the mass production of books and pamphlets. Writers explored new literary forms like poetry, plays, and essays to express ideas related to humanism, individualism, and secularism. Some seminal literary works that emerged during the Renaissance include:
The Divine Comedy: Written by Dante Alighieri, it’s considered one of the greatest works of world literature. The poem describes Dante’s travels through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise.
The Canterbury Tales: This collection of stories, written by Geoffrey Chaucer, is a narrative told by a group of pilgrims. It is widely regarded as Chaucer’s magnum opus and a masterpiece of world literature
Hamlet: Another masterpiece by Shakespeare, it’s a tragedy set in Denmark that dramatizes Prince Hamlet’s revenge on his uncle Claudius for murdering King Hamlet, Claudius’s brother, and Prince Hamlet’s father
To sum up, The Renaissance, which spanned from the 14th to the 17th century, had a profound impact on modern-day society, art, science, and thought. This period of cultural and intellectual rebirth marked a shift away from the medieval period and laid the foundation for the modern world.
Originating in Italy, the Renaissance's influence spread across Europe through groundbreaking shifts in diverse fields. The era bridged medieval and modern times, with thriving advancements in culture, politics, commerce, and intellectual inquiry.
By rediscovering classical ideas and expanding global exploration, the Renaissance paved the way for the interconnected modern world. Its creative energy and vibrant innovation remain an inspiration.
The Dawning of Renaissance 2.0: An AI-Fueled Future
In a recent article, DeepMind’s cofounder, Mustafa Suleyman, pondered the trajectory of AI. He opined that Generative AI, while transformative, is merely a stepping stone in the larger evolution of artificial intelligence. The next frontier, he believes, is Interactive AI, already leaving indelible marks across numerous domains.
Drawing a parallel to the Renaissance, the current phase of AI development might be seen as the 'Early Renaissance' of a fresh epoch. The original Renaissance ushered in radical change and innovation, and now, it appears we're on the precipice of another transformative period catalyzed by AI.
Overview of AI's Impact:
Revolutionary Changes in Everyday Life:
AI aids in weather forecasts, recommends shows on platforms like Netflix, filters spam emails, and is pivotal in areas like commuting, shopping, and web browsing.
Transformation in Industries:
In the telecom industry, AI bolsters network infrastructure and customer experiences.
The BFSI sector deploys AI for automating back-office tasks and fraud detection.
Manufacturing witnesses AI-driven data accessibility, task time reduction, accuracy enhancement, and administrative task management.
Cybersecurity leans heavily on AI to detect new malware and suspicious activities.
Potential of AI:
AI and Machine Learning promise to reinvent the scientific method, enabling analysis of vast data sets and uncovering intricate patterns.
Foreign policy will see AI as a cornerstone, with significant government investments anticipated.
Future consumer experiences like the metaverse and cryptocurrencies are pegged to AI's advancements.
Reshaping the Future:
AI is poised to foster immense innovation and invigorate industries, with the potential to birth entirely new sectors.
Challenges await: potential worker displacements, blurring of truth, and exacerbating inequalities.
The shift to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) heralds not just a semantic change, but a profound leap in capabilities.
Vision for Renaissance 2.0:
Renaissance in the Arts: With AI as a co-creator, we might witness an efflorescence in art, music, literature, and more. Beyond assisting, AI could pioneer unique art forms, blending human intuition with algorithmic finesse.
Scientific and Technological Leap: AI, our potent accomplice, promises to expedite discoveries, aiding in challenges ranging from climate change mitigation to space exploration.
Economic Evolution: AI will metamorphose industries. While sectors like transportation and healthcare face upheavals, emerging roles and opportunities could flourish, necessitating adaptability and continuous learning.
A Transformed Daily Life: Communication, education, work, and leisure stand to be redefined. With deeper AI integration, augmented and virtual realities might become commonplace.
Navigating the Challenges: As AI's ambit widens, we must confront algorithmic biases, privacy concerns, and job displacements. A foresighted approach can help distribute AI's boons equitably.
Philosophical Reverberations: Marrying technology and humanity evokes profound questions about intelligence, creativity, and our essence. This fusion prompts us to reevaluate our relationships – with machines and amongst ourselves.
In conclusion, we seem to be teetering on the brink of an enthralling era, laden with immense promise and looming challenges. To navigate this intricate tapestry, cultivating insight, and foresight is paramount. By doing so, we gear up for the odyssey that beckons, ready to shape and be shaped by the future.
Renaissance vs. Renaissance 2.0: A Comparison
Drawing parallels between a well-documented past and a speculative future can be challenging. Yet, by weaving together historical insights, hallmark traits of the Renaissance, collective aspirations, and a dash of foresight, I'll venture to draw a connection between the famed Renaissance and its potential modern successor.
A surge in arts and culture. The Renaissance saw an explosion of art, writing, music, and creativity. AI could similarly inspire new art forms and cultural works.
Questioning established beliefs. The Renaissance challenged dogma and led to humanism, skepticism, and scientific inquiry. A new Renaissance may re-examine ingrained beliefs and systems in society due to AI's influence.
Focus on human intelligence. The Renaissance emphasized human brilliance and capabilities. With AI augmenting human skills, there may be renewed focus on developing creativity, emotional intelligence and thinking skills.
Demystification of processes. The printing press spread knowledge widely during the Renaissance. AI may help democratize access to information, education, technologies.
Period of transition. The Renaissance bridged the Middle Ages and the Early Modern era. An AI Renaissance may represent a transition between the digital and post-digital periods.
Technological transformations. The Renaissance saw new innovations like the printing press, clocks and the telescope. AI is a new "technology" being applied across industries and activities.
Economic shifts. The Renaissance marked the transition from feudalism to early capitalism. AI may bring about new post-industrial economics shaped by automation, big data and artificial intelligence.
Changes to social structure. The Renaissance gave birth to a rising middle class. An AI Renaissance may see the decline of certain professions and the emergence of new kinds of work and workers.
A movement rooted in networked groups. The Renaissance emphasized the dignity and creative potential of the individual. With AI enhancing human capabilities, individual empowerment may be one of the central themes once again, however, collective reprogramming of the social software will change the focus, and collaborative efforts of interconnected groups will be dominant.
Decentralization, the democratization of open source and tech. The Renaissance, in its core idea, was more decentralized than centralized. Compared to Byzantium, China, and the Islamic world, Western Europe remained politically decentralized following the decline and fall of the Western Roman Empire. AI-powered Renaissance 2.0 will offer flexible decentralization, with a focus on the democratization of open source and tech.
Of course, each era also differs vastly given the unique context and nature of AI. But studying patterns from history provides clues to how the future may unfold.
The original Renaissance bore witness to unprecedented advancements in art, science, and philosophy. It was a time when humanity broke the shackles of the Dark Ages, stepping into a world illuminated by knowledge and creativity. Drawing a parallel, Renaissance 2.0 won't just be about technological advancement but a holistic upliftment of society. As the Renaissance artists and thinkers reshaped culture, so will the proponents of decentralization, democratization, and open-source redefine the contours of our future.
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CTRL + END
While penning this article, I found myself juggling the preparations for my own birthday (November 8) celebration. Selecting a topic was a challenge, and carving out time was an even greater task. However, witnessing the keen interest of readers in my previous articles, the positive reception of my last piece, and the record surge in subscribers within a mere span of 10 days (as I write this we’re approaching 800 subs), I was inspired to keep this journey going.
Eagerly, I chose our next destination - a stop not overwhelmed with technical details but one that would serve as a time machine, transporting passengers between the past and the future. It is my sincere hope that you derive as much pleasure from reading this article as I did from crafting it.
In the new Renaissance, a completely different Decameron will be written.
In the new Renaissance, Don Quixote will duel with spaceships, symbolizing the fusion of past ideals and future technology.
In the new Renaissance, Dante will no longer wander lost in Beatrice's gaze, and will now walk alongside her, symbolizing equality and partnership.
In the new renaissance, Petrarch will no longer languish in unrequited love; the beautiful Laura will yield to destiny, transforming their narrative.
A new renaissance will erase today's aggressive individualism. The focus will no longer be on an extreme “I,” but rather on a collective “we,” fostering unity and collaboration.
🫶
Great article! I love the optimism throughout. I too hope AI launches humankind into a new Renaissance. At the same time, we ought to remember that the original Renaissance had its darker side too.
Renaissance philosophies gave new life to Greco-Roman dichotomies such as the old opposition between mind and body that we still struggle with to this day (see Bruno Latour's We Were Never Modern). In essence, part of our modern inability to talk intelligibly about machine intelligence hinges on our binding to this Renaissance dichotomy among many others.
Other Renaissance inheritances include nation state, colonialism, free market capitalism, and disciplinary regimes of knowledge that separate courses of study into specific subjects, and the renewed effort to order and control nature through human design and engineering.
It is my hope that this new Renaissance will work to counteract some of these inheritances as your post powerfully suggest!!!
First of all, happy birthday dear Nat! I couldn't find you on Twitter and tweeps told me you deleted your account permanently. As you can see I started following you on here. Your last piece was a masterpiece! Your artful blend of the well-documented past and the hypothetical future captivated me, despite my firm footing on the ground.