We imagine desirable futures (3): Rediscovery of details and personal responsibility

February 2025

Recent discussions about the future often focus on what we fear rather than what we want. In early December, we launched a series of blog posts to explore possible avenues for positive - albeit realistic - future narratives. It is based on the belief that a broad dialogue about positive futures could inspire openness to change and optimism for transitions that lead to a better world.

The third thought experiment explores a possible desirable future, centred on the rediscovery of details, local action and personal responsibility in a complex world.

Rediscovery of details and personal responsibility

Today's debates about the future are often dominated by glossy narratives. Bold promises of high-tech revolutions, sweeping social change or grandiose 'space futures' often seem to define the positive narratives that shape our collective imagination. But as inspiring as these narratives may seem, they can leave many feeling disconnected, disillusioned or powerless. Amid the noise of these narratives, a quieter but powerful narrative is emerging: a rediscovery of detail and a renewed sense of individual and community responsibility. What could drive such a shift in thinking?

Drivers: Growing disillusionment with grand narratives

At its core, this thought experiment reflects a psychological and behavioural shift. Overwhelmed by the complexity of global challenges, many people crave tangible actions they can take to make a difference. This desire for tangibility is driving a move away from abstract solutions towards practical, detail-oriented approaches. This cultural shift is reshaping how society views progress – not as a distant ideal, but as a series of small, interconnected steps.

As global challenges become more complex, there is growing frustration with solutions that feel too abstract or disconnected from the realities of everyday life. Climate agreements, digital revolutions or economic reforms often seem distant, leaving individuals wondering how they fit into these grand schemes. This disconnect fuels a desire to focus on the here and now – to engage with challenges and opportunities on a human scale. People begin to value what they can directly influence, fostering a movement focused on actionable steps and localised solutions.

There are a few assumptions that set the framework for such a future narrative.

Cultural shifts towards mindfulness and localism. Cultural trends play a key role. The rise of movements such as slow living, sustainability and minimalism reflect a yearning for simplicity and intentionality. Rather than being swept away by the pressures of modern life, people are choosing to pause, reassess and focus on what really matters. These movements encourage a detailed examination of one's surroundings and personal habits, reinforcing the idea that meaningful change begins with small, deliberate actions. Grassroots movements reinforce this cultural shift. Across Europe and beyond, local initiatives for social justice, climate resilience and urban regeneration are inspiring others to take ownership of their future. By demonstrating the power of community-led action, these movements show that large-scale change often starts with small, focused efforts.

Local empowerment through technology. Often seen as a driver of globalisation and centralisation, technology can paradoxically empower a focus on detail. The increasing availability of open source tools and citizen science platforms enables individuals and small communities to gather data, make informed decisions and act autonomously. Decentralised technologies, such as blockchain, strengthen accountability by enabling transparent and localised systems. In addition, innovations tailored to micro-level needs – such as urban gardening apps, small-scale renewable energy solutions, or local biodiversity monitoring tools – make it easier than ever for people to see the immediate impact of their actions. These technologies bridge the gap between ambition and practicality, proving that small actions can add up to significant change.

Local economic and environmental realities. Economic factors are also contributing to this shift. Disruptions to global supply chains, often caused by crises or environmental pressures, expose the fragility of overstretched systems. In response, many communities are embracing resilient, localised economies that prioritise self-sufficiency and circular practices. A growing popularity of repair cafes, zero-waste stores, regional circular economy initiatives, for example, reflects a return to valuing resources and reducing dependence on large-scale consumption. The environment serves as both a motivator and a mirror for this mindset. Climate change is no longer an abstract future threat, but a tangible reality affecting communities today. Local responses to floods, heatwaves or biodiversity loss highlight the importance of detailed, place-based action. These efforts remind us that the environment is not just a global issue, but an intimately local one, where every action counts (think global – act local).

Shift towards local governance and community-led initiatives. Governance and education systems can encourage this focus on detail and responsibility. Policy frameworks that prioritise subsidiarity – ensuring that decisions are taken as close as possible to those affected – create the conditions for local solutions to flourish. By equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge to take meaningful action, education fosters a culture of responsibility and agency. Education systems that emphasise critical thinking, practical skills and civic responsibility empower individuals to act with confidence and purpose. Declining trust in centralised institutions also plays a role. When people perceive large systems as inefficient or unresponsive, they are more likely to embrace self-governance and community-led initiatives. This decentralisation of power fosters innovation and ownership at the grassroots level, creating a sense of shared responsibility for collective well-being.

Results: Possible futures

Based on these assumptions, Europe is embarking on a profound social and economic transformation. This journey is guided by a shared vision focused local actions and personal responsibilities. Rediscovering detail and taking responsibility is not a retreat from ambition, but a recalibration of focus. It is about recognising that real change often starts small – at the level of individuals, communities and local ecosystems. By shifting attention to what is tangible, actionable and within reach, this thought experiment offers a hopeful future narrative. It reminds us that while the big picture inspires, the details sustain – and ultimately it is through these details that we build the future.

In a Europe where rediscovering details and embracing personal responsibility take centre stage, the social, economic and environmental fabric is changing.

Empowered individuals and communities drive change. A profound cultural shift is taking place as individuals and communities become the architects of their future. People no longer feel powerless in the face of global challenges, but take ownership of solutions in their immediate environment. Small actions – be they local renewable energy initiatives, waste reduction efforts or community greening projects – add up to drive large-scale change. This renewed agency fosters a sense of purpose and resilience, shifting societal attitudes from passive consumption to active contribution.

Revitalising local economies. Focusing on detail revitalises local economies, promoting resilience and sustainability. Communities are shifting from dependence on global supply chains to higher levels of self-sufficiency and circularity. This shift is driven by a return to valuing locally produced goods, collaborative resource management and innovative business models that reflect territorial strengths.

Grassroots policy and governance. Governance is evolving to empower communities, municipalities and regions, with decision-making tailored to local needs and conditions. Subsidiarity becomes a guiding principle, ensuring that policies are implemented as close as possible to the people they affect. This shift fosters trust in institutions, strengthens civic participation and encourages innovative, place-based solutions.

Education for action and empowerment. Education systems are undergoing a fundamental transformation, equipping citizens with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful contribution to their communities and environment. The focus is shifting from abstract academic achievement to practical, locally relevant education that fosters problem-solving, critical thinking and civic responsibility.

Visible impact of local environmental action. Environmental progress becomes tangible when localised efforts directly address the challenges faced by communities. These actions demonstrate that sustainability begins with understanding and improving one's immediate surroundings. From urban biodiversity corridors to community-led flood management systems, people see the impact of their efforts, inspiring further action.

A renewed sense of connection and belonging. Rediscovering details fosters a sense of connection – to places, communities and shared goals. People reconnect with their surroundings and neighbours, creating a stronger sense of belonging and solidarity. This renewed connection helps counter fragmentation and builds resilience to social and economic divides.

And next …

This thought experiment shows that the rediscovery of detail and individual responsibility is also about understanding and capitalising on the unique strengths of places. By integrating territorial considerations into these thematic outcomes, Europe becomes a mosaic of empowered individuals, resilient communities and innovative regions. Together, these efforts create a Europe that values detail, responsibility and diversity, and offers a hopeful and actionable way forward.

This is just one possible narrative among many. There is space to explore other assumptions and drivers, as well as alternative pathways that could shape Europe's future. The process of imagining these futures is not about predicting outcomes, but about inspiring action and fostering conversations that bring us closer to the society we want to build.

What are your ideas and perspectives on standing up for democracy and diversity? We invite you to join the debate and help shape the conversation about Europe's future.

by Kai Böhme