I admit it, I am in love with the TED talks website. The idea of getting some of the smartest and most interesting people in the world together in one place to talk to very influential and rich people (the ones who often have the money to make big things happen fast) really appeals to me. If I had the time and money I would love to attend one of these things one day. But as it is now I am overjoyed that they just give away these talks for free on the site. Here are two that I think go very well together. The idea of dangerous viral ideas, and the blight of the suburbs (in its own right a dangerous idea, that we should kill).
Dan Dennett talks about Memes, and how the spread.
James Howard Kunstler talks about creating spaces worth caring about (some foul language, but used appropriately).
I especially like the idea of memes as positive carriers of change. Come up with an idea that is so appealing that people will have no choice but to be enchanted by it. A world powered by renewable energy, a world with blue skies and clean water. A world in which people can be free, happy, and live rewarding lives. Craft that idea well enough, and watch it spread. What is your idea for a better future, how will you create a place worth caring about?