The course on Emerging Economies explores transformative approaches to fostering sustainability, equity, and resilience in economic systems, focusing on circular, distributed, regenerative, and inclusive principles. Inspired by different economical frameworks and interdisciplinary design philosophies, the course examines how innovative thinking can create a thriving balance between ecological integrity and human prosperity.
Towards Regenerative and Interconnected Economies
Recognizing the importance of economic decentralization and the circular flow of resources, the course highlights how value can be redefined and shared. Collaborative design, equitable redistribution, and open innovation play a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive economy.
Beyond reducing harm, regenerative economies aim to actively restore ecological systems while promoting social well-being. This involves stewardship, community participation, and ethical practices to align human activity with the cycles of the living world.
The concept of “living within the safe and just space for humanity” is central, emphasizing the balance between meeting human needs (social foundations) and respecting planetary boundaries (ecological ceilings). Strategies such as redistribution, regeneration, and systems thinking are critical for shaping sustainable economies
Social innovation and entrepreneurship are pivotal for addressing systemic inequalities and creating sustainable impact. The focus is on leveraging business as a force for good, driving social justice and ecological restoration.
It is essential to ask ourselves what is the role of the ia in this process. Is it possible to generate models that promote social justice and enhance machine-human interaction? Thinking about technological advances from an economic perspective but in terms of human work, to alleviate the tasks that put people’s physical integrity at risk, and not to replace them. The evolution of work in emerging economies requires adaptive, ethical, and community-centered approaches. It envisions work as a space for collaboration, creativity, and purpose, rejecting exploitative and extractive models.
Finally, in order to achieve an alternative economic model and not fall back into old anthropocentric patterns and practices, it is necessary to reconsider ourselves from a non-human perspective. In this sense a profound rethinking of human-nature relationships is necessary. Drawing from Indigenous knowledge systems and biomimicry, the course underscores how economies can learn from and integrate natural processes. Return to our roots to rethink our future on stronger foundations and more anchored to nature.
