Politicians are obsessed with the journey. Currently, we must all strive for ‘growth, growth, growth’. Scientists limit themselves to facts based on evidence. This helps us to spot impending dangers along the way – climate change, species extinction, etc. Unfortunately, nobody discusses where we want to go. What happened to ‘destination’? In short, as consumers and voters we are allowed to choose but never asked to dream.
About ten years ago, some research took me to Deptford High Street where we spent a day asking shoppers for their visions of a better future. I was expecting James Bond fantasies – personal helicopters, gadgets that cure every ailment and robots that will end drudgery. I was shocked by the modesty of the responses. Many just wanted to hang out with distant family or friends. Some wanted the Council to give them permission to grow vegetables and flowers in view of their windows.
Dreams costs nothing and take very little time. We can all dream and Imagining better worlds is transformative. Unfortunately, there is growing evidence that ‘smart’ gadgets are killing the imagination. Adults could learn a lot from the imaginative genius of children. Instead we are choosing to be trained by ‘smart’ gadgets in the clamour for ‘growth, growth, growth’. This process will also sap the imagination of our kids.
Imagine Your Local Rain Garden
| Imagine cultivating street flowers | (you can) |
| Imagine that the streets belonged to us | (they do) |
| Imagine your street as a neighbourhood garden | (it is) |
| Imagine that fuel was harmless and free | (sunshine will last several billion years) |