Modernity was characterised by a belief that progress would automatically lead to a better future. Today, that optimism has evaporated. In its place we have global heating, multiple wars, economic austerity and a prevailing sense of malaise. Now the primary concern is to limit the damage and avert the catastrophe. Even if that succeeds, we will still be faced with unprecedented change. We are looking at a future where collective survival will take precedence over individual and collective self-fulfillment. Adaptation will be the guiding principle of society. This is raising momentous questions about our understanding of time, of politics and of ourselves – to which progressive political forces and humanity as a whole are going to have to find answers.

Philipp Staab ist Professor für die Soziologie der Zukunft der Arbeit an der Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin und am Einstein Center Digital Future (ECDF).