Storytelling and Strategic Foresight: Imagining Economic Futures Beyond Capitalism
As a founding thought leader member of the Design Economics Coalition, Joe Tankersley brings two decades of experience from Walt Disney Imagineering combined with professional foresight practice. Through his strategic narrative technique, Tankersley helps nonprofits, community groups, and change makers imagine better tomorrows. We asked him about his work and its connection to design economics.
Which tenet of design economics most resonates with your work and why?
Generally interested in designing economic systems that create the opportunity for people and planet to thrive. FOR example – Doughnut Economics as a model to test
What evidence have you seen that economic paradigms are shifting?
Hundreds, if not thousands, of small experiments are being carried out challenging the old economic systems. These range from small cooperatives to UBI to barter systems, digital currencies, etc. The simple fact that so many of these experiments are happening suggests there is a thrust for change. And also the fact that our current capitalistic system is cracking apart.
Which economic orthodoxies do you believe most need challenging?
That the only choice is capitalism or socialism. We need to imagine beyond the current systems.
What common misconceptions about economics do you most frequently address?
That economic “laws” are somehow absolute. Economic systems are designed by humans and reflect our aspirations and limitations. That neoliberal capitalism’s argument that all boats rise with rising GDP and growth is not only untrue but ultimately will destroy us.
How do you engage audiences who may be resistant to new economic thinking?
Increasingly through storytelling, fiction, and immersive experience.
About This Interview
Design Economics Coalition members complete a self-interview exploring how their work connects to the three tenets of design economics: acknowledging change, embracing creativity, and cultivating literacy. These responses help connect professionals across sectors who are working to evolve economic systems.
Interested in joining the coalition? Contact us to learn more about membership.