The Future We Choose: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of The Future We Choose, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Two futures lie ahead
Figueres and Rivett-Carnac, who helped negotiate the 2015 Paris climate agreement, describe two possible worlds in 2050.
In one, humanity failed to cut emissions; in the other, it succeeded and built a healthier world.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Optimism is a choice
The authors argue for stubborn optimism, a deliberate decision to believe in a good outcome and act to achieve it.
In their view, a hopeful mindset keeps people from giving up and gives them energy to keep working on solutions.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Abundance replaces scarcity
The authors describe a mindset of endless abundance, the idea that cooperation can create enough for everyone.
In their view, a mindset of scarcity breeds competition and fear, while a mindset of abundance makes sharing and teamwork easier.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Regeneration is possible
The authors describe radical regeneration, restoring nature rather than only reducing harm.
In their account, this means helping forests, soils and oceans recover, so that the living world becomes healthier over time.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Paris showed cooperation works
The authors describe how nearly every country agreed to the Paris Agreement.
In their account, this showed that countries with very different interests can agree on a shared goal. They treat it as proof that cooperation works.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Actions can make a difference
The authors list ten actions individuals can take, from letting go of the old world to engaging in politics.
In their view, personal choices matter, but they work best when combined with wider change, such as in government and business.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Old ways must be released
The authors argue that people must accept that some familiar ways of living must change.
In their view, holding on to habits that harm the climate only delays the shift, which makes letting go part of the change.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Politics matters
The authors urge people to engage in politics and vote for climate action.
In their view, public choices shape the rules that govern all of us, so taking part in them has a strong effect.
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