In an era dominated by skepticism and uncertainty, the role of the state as a unique vehicle for collective action remains pivotal. As society grapples with the complex challenges of today, it becomes evident that innovative solutions and state-backed initiatives are essential for progress. Currently, only 19% of Americans believe their children's lives will surpass their own in quality, and two-thirds anticipate a weakened economy by 2050. These concerns highlight a broader pessimism, yet historical and contemporary advancements suggest a brighter horizon.
A century ago, the average life expectancy in one of the world's wealthiest societies was merely 40 years. Today, global life expectancy stands at 73, showcasing remarkable progress in healthcare and living conditions. Similarly, maternal mortality rates have drastically decreased since the 19th century; in England alone, between 40 and 60 women per thousand births faced mortality in childbirth—an issue significantly mitigated by medical advancements. These improvements underscore the potential for positive change when resources are directed towards research and development.
The transformative power of state-backed research and development is evident in the creation of technologies such as the internet, solar cells, lithium batteries, the jet engine, and nuclear power. These innovations have revolutionized industries and enhanced quality of life globally. Furthermore, artificial intelligence is poised to contribute as much as $13 trillion to the global economy between 2017 and 2030, demonstrating the immense potential for technological advancements to drive economic growth.
Despite these achievements, advanced economies confront increasingly polarized labor markets and rising inequality. The disparity between different socioeconomic groups is a growing concern, necessitating targeted interventions to bridge this gap. Research indicates that countries with shorter working weeks experience higher levels of social capital, increased volunteering, and greater gender equality. These findings suggest that reimagining work-life balance could foster more equitable and cohesive societies.
Economist Amartya Sen's concept of "unfreedom" refers to constraints beyond individual control that hinder the pursuit of meaningful lives. To combat this, the establishment of Universal Basic Services (UBS) emerges as a viable solution. UBS encompasses essential services such as housing, healthcare, transport, and education, which should be accessible to all free of charge and funded through progressive taxation. This approach aims to eliminate barriers and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
The coming decade presents both challenges and opportunities. The 2030s may bring inflationary shocks and extreme weather events, yet they also hold promise for groundbreaking innovations like real-time language translation and cancer vaccines available to billions. These potential advancements illustrate the dual nature of future developments—while challenges persist, the potential for positive transformation remains significant.