ABSTRACT
In chapter 2 we first discuss how to go about identifying broadly shared goals, identifying five strategies that different people might employ in doing so. There is no point in developing strategies for the future if we cannot first identify goals with (potentially at least) broad public appeal. We then identify a set of characteristics we would like to see in the future: stable climate, cultural toleration, restored faith in democracy, world peace, and more. Note that these goals are quite diverse, and include changes in both formal institutions and cultural values. One long section addresses the “ethical challenge of our times,” the need for respect for diversity on the one hand but for shared values of honesty and responsibility on the other. The chapter concludes by discussing whether the various goals identified are compatible. They are compatible for the most part, though we address the potential conflict between environmental and economic goals.
