New materials have transformed healthcare, energy, transport, infrastructure and digital technology. They have also brought new extraction, pollution, waste, inequality and risks that were not always obvious when they were first introduced. Over three days, you will investigate a deceptively simple question: should we keep inventing new materials, or concentrate on using the ones we already have more wisely?

Working through a deliberative process, you will explore the issue from scientific, technical, environmental, social, economic, ethical and philosophical perspectives. You will interview invited experts, test competing arguments, debate the difficult trade-offs and work with the group to turn your findings into a public mock Tribunal for Future Generations.

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What to expect

Everyone will take part in the interviews, deliberations and overall shaping of the event. You can also choose a more specific role: writing or presenting the closing pleas, producing video or digital content, developing costumes, music or staging, documenting the process, supporting communications, or helping to run the final event.

On day one, you will meet the group, get to grips with the question and begin interviewing experts. Day two is where the case starts to take shape, as you continue the interviews and build the tribunal. Day three is devoted to final preparation, rehearsal and putting the whole thing on in front of a public audience.

Who is this for?

No specialist knowledge is required. This would suit anyone curious about science, sustainability, innovation, ethics, public debate, performance, communication or how difficult collective decisions are actually made. Bring a laptop or tablet if you have one, although this is not essential. Participants should be available for the full three-day programme and final public tribunal.

Book your place now.

Photo by Matt Seymour via Unsplash