Visionary Scenario Development of Emerging Fields

Abstract

Many prolific and arguably creative scientists (many of whom are Nobel laureates) are avid practitioners of some art form and can link this engagement with the arts back to creativity in their scientific work. So, what innovation can we expect to see in the next 500 years? It is in the space where art and science come together that revolutions are born. Arguably, the convergence of nano-, bio-, info-, and cognitive technologies (NBIC) is at the forefront of that revolution. If the goals of NBIC are to be realized, research must be interdisciplinary, visionary, and collaborative. Art can be a catalyst for creative problem solving and critical thinking just as science can inspire great art. Ultimately, scientists must use all the tools at their disposal to push the boundaries of their imaginations. Science fiction offers a means to explore possibilities and test ideas. This chapter will explore the effect science fiction literature in singularly and in combination with scenarios has had on science and technology research and innovation and how it can be used to (1) drive scientific and technological discoveries; (2) foment an interdisciplinary landscape to address the global, complex challenges ahead; and (3) facilitate the dialogue between scientists and the general public to reduce barriers to acceptance of science concepts and technologies, including NBIC.