DL 334

Towards Imaginology

Welcome to Digitally Literate, issue #334.

This week, I spent time reflecting on growth—both personal and societal. From exploring the role of imagination in education to redefining productivity and resilience, the threads are all connected.

🔖 Key Takeaways

• Imagination as the Core of Education: Stephen T. Asma argues for "Imaginology" as a discipline to redefine knowledge in the 21st century.
• Collaboration Over Output: Productivity isn’t just about getting more done but fostering connections across knowledge silos.
• The Importance of Antifragility: Resilience grows stronger when we embrace challenges and use them as catalysts for growth.

📚 This Week’s Highlights

1. Jacinda Ardern Delivers Harvard Commencement Speech

In a powerful address, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tackles themes we explore regularly here: leadership, empathy, and addressing modern challenges.
Why this matters: Ardern’s ability to articulate the tensions of our time—ranging from polarization to misinformation—offers a blueprint for thoughtful leadership.

2. 2022 Digital Media Trends

Deloitte’s latest report highlights generational shifts in entertainment preferences, with younger audiences prioritizing immersive, interactive experiences.
Why this matters: As media consumption evolves, understanding these trends is key to engaging meaningfully with future audiences.

3. Imaginology

Stephen T. Asma advocates for a new educational framework centered on imagination—combining creativity, cognitive processes, and interdisciplinary knowledge.
Why this matters: In a world of rapid technological and societal change, nurturing imagination may unlock innovative solutions to complex problems.

4. Why Isn’t New Technology Making Us More Productive?

Despite advances like AI and cloud computing, the broad economic benefits of productivity gains remain elusive.
Why this matters: Productivity isn’t just about individual efficiency; it’s about fostering collaboration and breaking down silos across teams and organizations.

5. Can We Evolve Online?

Emma Bates examines whether we allow ourselves and others the grace to grow and change in digital spaces.
Why this matters: As our online lives become permanent records, embracing growth—and forgiving past missteps—can foster a healthier digital culture.

6. The Philosopher Who Resisted Despair

Albert Camus grappled with the absurdity of existence, choosing to find dignity in humanity’s resilience.
Why this matters: Camus’s philosophy reminds us to seek meaning and purpose, even when life’s challenges seem insurmountable.

🛠️ DO: Become Antifragile

Don't Chase Happiness. Become Antifragile.
The concept of antifragility—where challenges strengthen rather than weaken us—offers a powerful framework for growth. Strategies include:

• Embracing failure as a learning opportunity.
• Seeking out challenges that stretch your abilities.
• Building systems that adapt and thrive under pressure.

Why this matters: Developing an antifragile mindset can help you navigate life’s uncertainties with greater resilience and optimism.

🌟 Closing Reflection

“To be successful you have to enjoy doing your best while at the same time contributing to something beyond yourself.”
— Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Reflect and Engage

• How can imagination studies reshape education to meet the challenges of the 21st century?
• What steps can you take to foster collaboration and shared knowledge in your work or community?
• How do you create space for growth and forgiveness in your digital interactions?

Thank you for reading Digitally Literate. Stay tuned for more insights and discussions. Connect with me at hello@digitallyliterate.net or explore Newsletter Index for all past issues.