Lifelong Learning and Life-Wide Challenges: Toward the Uncertainty of Sustainable Futures

Abstract

Scenarios for the future of humanity move along a continuum between dystopian and utopian forecasts. Moderately optimistic predictions on this continuum call for the power of learning and education, human creativity, and technological innovation. Regardless of the differences between predictions, their common characteristic is a call for a paradigm shift and a return to core values.

The UN global development strategy translated into the 2030 Agenda focuses on lifelong learning (LLL) and shared responsibility for applying the principles and postulates of the “sustainable worldview.” The paradigm shift should happen with the support of LLL which, however, itself reflects old patterns of (non)solving problems at the global level: fragmentary policies, different treatments of youth and adult education, as well as insufficient financial support – to name but a few examples.

Upon consideration of some of the current projections for the future, this chapter highlights lessons that are relevant to the application of the concept of lifelong, life-wide, and life-deep learning and to acting in accordance with the principles of sustainability. Common points in LLL and a sustainable worldview are analyzed, as a potential compass not only for living with crisis and uncertainty but to strengthen resilience and the willingness to reconsider both our habits and our perspectives on crises, uncertainty, and the future.