Arizona State University’s Center for Science and the Imagination brings writers, artists and other creative thinkers into collaboration with scientists, engineers and technologists to reignite humanity’s grand ambitions for innovation and discovery.
The center serves as a network hub for audacious moonshot ideas and a cultural engine for thoughtful optimism. We provide a space for productive collaboration between the humanities and the sciences, bring human narratives to scientific questions, and explore the full social implications of cutting-edge research.
More about our many projects Meet our staff
Upcoming events
- We are working on our schedule, check back here for future events.
Our recent books
A collection of fiction, nonfiction and art that explores how sharing space with a facility for storing nuclear waste might shape a community's future, guided by insights about land, justice, governance, collective decision-making, and stewardship.
A Creative Guide for Mapping Possibilities and Finding Direction This kit is designed to help you navigate the uncertainties and opportunities of the future while staying true to your values,
A clarion call for visions of vibrant, hopeful climate futures, bringing together global voices to share stories of resilient communities based in real science.
Listen to the Imagination Desk podcast
The conversation explores the role of imagination in problem-solving, playwriting, language, culture, and technology. It delves into the impact of imagination on identity, the planet, and ethical considerations in AI. The discussion also highlights the use of imagination in navigating difficult situations and the potential of imagination in shaping the future.
The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to human-AI interaction, imagination, and the impact of AI on human flourishing. It delves into the role of imagination in shaping AI interactions, the design of AI for human flourishing, and the ethical considerations of AI addiction and dependency. The conversation also explores the blurring boundaries of imagination and the need for a human-centered society to shape the future of technology. The conversation delves into the societal impact of AI, the role of imagination and collective storytelling, and the influence of imagination in personal and professional life. It explores the democratization of AI, values and societal impact, building a human-centered society, the role of science fiction, and the power of stories about the future.
The conversation explores the intersection of art and technology, the alchemy of language and creativity, the pitfalls of co-creating with AI, and the hopeful future of AI and imagination. It delves into the impact of generative AI on creative agency, the sublime and emergence of style in AI, and the importance of engaging with AI and imagination.
Futures Thinking Tools
We have developed many tools over the years, here are a few you can try out with your own groups.
Futures by Choice | Futures by Chance
This exercise is a futures-thinking activity in which participants complete a timeline through which they imagine the next fifty years.
The Imagination Sketchbook
A self-guided introduction to exploring and expanding your imagination.
Solar Tomorrows Resources
A collection of resources to use with the books Weight of Light and Cities of Light for journalists, teachers and community group leaders.
