Why I Still Believe in The Good Future - 2026 New Keynote Compilation By Gerd Leonhard

Many people around the world currently feel pessimistic about what lies ahead, citing severe challenges such as climate change, rising autocracies, and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. This negative outlook has been amplified by media outlets like Hollywood and Nollywood, which often portray a dark future because it sells well to audiences. Consequently, there is a growing trend where science fiction scenarios are becoming scientific fact in areas ranging from language translation to robotics, leading some Europeans to decide against having children due to the perceived hopelessness of tomorrow. However, Gerd Leonhard argues that this pessimism stems from viewing ourselves as victims rather than architects of our destiny, suggesting that we must shift our perspective to actively create a better future instead of simply enduring it. The core argument presented is that while business models and societal structures are dying out due to these unprecedented changes, the tools necessary for success have never been more abundant. Leonhard points out that technology has evolved from asking if something can be done or when we will do it, to focusing on why we should do it and what value we want to extract from it. He highlights specific breakthroughs like nuclear fusion, which promises unlimited energy within approximately fifteen years, as evidence of our expanding capacity to solve problems rather than being overwhelmed by them. Furthermore, he notes that while platforms like Facebook generate massive profits through algorithms that prioritize bad news over good news, understanding these mechanisms allows us to navigate and improve the systems we inhabit rather than passively accepting their flaws. Ultimately, the path to a positive future relies on cultivating an essential mindset where one believes tomorrow can be better than today. Leonhard emphasizes that hope is not blind optimism but comes from realizing that individuals have the power to make the future happen; if you possess self-hope, you inherently project it onto the world around you. This requires us to adopt a wider view of life's pillars—people, planet, purpose, peace, and prosperity—and to actively groom an attitude of optimism in ourselves and others. By recognizing that our beliefs shape reality, we can move beyond fear-based narratives and work together to develop conditions that allow humanity to thrive, proving that the good future exists not because problems have disappeared, but because we now possess greater ability to solve them than ever before.