Society and our economic system have been based on a type of thinking, a logical way to operate and function. It was all about computer programmers who could crank code or MBAs who could crunch numbers. However, the future belongs to another type of mind.
We are all moving from an economy and society built on the logical, linear computer-like capabilities to an economy and society built on the inventive, emphatic, big-picture capabilities of what´s rising in its place, the Conceptual Age. Now, it is time for the creators, pattern recognizers, empathizers, and meaning makers.
In order to understand this massive change in society, we need to know where these two kinds of minds come from: The Left Brain and The Right Brain.
The left hemisphere is logical and analytical, these capabilities powered the Information Age, but they are no longer sufficient. On the other side there is the right hemisphere which is nonlinear, intuitive and holistic. Inventiveness, empathy and meaning are some capabilities that will determine the direction of this new era, and who flourishes or flounders.
Nevertheless, these two hemispheres do not stop functioning when the other is working. Both halves complement each other, we need both hemispheres "helping" each other to empower ourselves as humans. The left hemisphere controls the right side of the body, while the right hemisphere controls the left side of the body. Moreover, the right side is simultaneous and the left is sequential. Furthermore, the left hemisphere specializes in text and deatils whereas the right side is more about the context and the big picture.
"People can´t compete with machines when it comes to logic or calculation. We have to develop aptitudes that can´t be replicated by machines."
In the Conceptual Age, we will need to master new aptitudes that complement our L-directed reasoning:
1. Design: it´s not enough just functioning, it is economically crucial to create something beautiful and emotionally engaging. Automation disrupts the abundance in this world, everyone must cultivate an artistic sensibility.
2. Story: persuasion, communication, and self-understanding has become the ability to fashion a compelling narrative.
3. Symphony: seeing the big picture, crossing boundaries, and being able to combine disparate pieces into an arresting new whole. To invent something new by combining elements nobody else thought to pair.
4. Empathy: the ability to understand what makes their fellow woman and man tick, to forge relationships and to care for others.
5. Play: in the conceptual age, you have to enjoy, no more boredom. Too much sobriety can be bad for your career and worse for your general well-being.
6. Meaning: we can pursue significant desires such as purpose, transcendence, and fulfillment.
Comentarios