Humanity may be closer than ever to developing technology that enables us to talk to animals. But futurists say the world is unprepared for the ethical, economic and legal implications that come with unlocking such an ability.
Future forecasting strategists warn of fast-accelerating risks, including climate change, mounting pressure on global healthcare systems from labour shortages and unforeseen consequences of artificial intelligence.
“One thing that's on nobody's radar, or only on a few people's radars, is the fact we're moving closer to a time when we will be able to talk, to communicate with animals,” Florence Gaub, director of the research division at the Nato Defence College, told The National at the Dubai Future Forum.
The annual gathering at the Museum of the Future last week brought together government strategists, scientists, innovators and experts to identify emerging signals and stress test assumptions about what is to come in the next decade.
Koko, a young gorilla, is taught sign language by June Monroe, centre, an interpreter for the deaf, at an undisclosed location. Photo: Bettmann Canine expert Cesar Millan and his dogs. Getty Images Kevin Richardson, the ‘lion whisperer’, runs a sanctuary housing 23 lions, as well as leopards and hyenas.
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