Gerd Leonhard: A Futurist Focused on a "Good Future" for Humanity

A prominent Swiss-German futurist advocating for human values in an era of rapid technological advancement, guided by the principles of "People, Planet, Purpose, and Prosperity."

EXPLORE THE VIDEOS
From Musician to Futurist

Leonhard's journey to becoming a futurist is as unique as his perspective. He began his career as a professional musician, a background that he credits with providing him a deep appreciation for human creativity and expression. This artistic sensibility informs his current work, as he often draws parallels between the structured logic of technology and the fluid, intuitive nature of human experience.

His transition into the world of technology and futurism was catalyzed by the digital disruption of the music industry in the late 1990s, giving him a firsthand understanding of the profound societal shifts that technology can trigger.

Key Themes and Philosophy
Embrace Technology but don't become it

This is the central tenet of his philosophy, encapsulated in his influential 2016 book, "Technology vs. Humanity: The Coming Clash Between Man and Machine." He argues that while technology offers immense potential, it also poses existential risks to what it means to be human. He cautions against a future where efficiency and automation are valued above empathy, creativity, and intuition.

Technology does not have ethics

Leonhard is a strong advocate for the establishment of clear ethical guidelines and regulations for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and geoengineering. He believes that without such frameworks, society risks sleepwalking into a future dictated by algorithms and corporate interests.

Human-only work is our Future

He foresees a radical transformation of the job market due to automation and AI. In this new landscape, he argues that uniquely human skills—such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and emotional intelligence—will become paramount. Consequently, he calls for a fundamental rethinking of education systems to foster these "androrithms" (human algorithms) rather than rote memorization and standardized testing.

People Planet Purpose Peace Prosperity

Leonhard is a critic of the traditional, profit-driven model of capitalism. He proposes a shift towards a more sustainable and equitable economic system that values the well-being of people and the planet alongside prosperity.

A Prolific Keynote Speaker and Author

Gerd Leonhard is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for his engaging and thought-provoking presentations that often incorporate rich visuals and a compelling narrative style. He has addressed audiences worldwide, including major corporations, government bodies, and non-profit organizations.

Beyond "Technology vs. Humanity", released in 2016 (yet still very timely), Gerd has authored several other books and produced numerous films and online resources to share his videos. His work serves as a crucial voice of caution and optimism, urging society to actively and thoughtfully shape a future that is not only technologically advanced but also deeply human.

Gerd's Technology / Humanity Videos (Playlist here)