The

Human Venture Institute

Exploring the leading edge of human and social development

What challenge
is humanity facing?

Climate change, resource depletion, culture clashes, human rights abuses

What capacities
will we need?

Understand human progress, development,  and strengthening our collective capacity for wisdom

    Over the last 3 million years or so, we have been shaped less and less by nature, and more and more by culture. We have become experimental creatures of our own making. […] It’s entirely up to us.

    Ronald Wright, A Short History of Progress

    The Human Venture is the on-going collective effort of our species to become more intelligent, more compassionate and just. It’s about connecting the experiences of life into a meaningful whole, so we can grasp the direction of progress—distinguishing what leads to growth and what does not. Only then can we actively shape our development toward wisdom and positive change. This process is how humanity adjusts and corrects its path.

    The Human Venture is not about chasing utopias or unrealistic ideals. It’s rooted in the real-world efforts of individuals and societies to guide our collective evolution in ways that are wise and constructive, rather than harmful and destructive. This may seem huge and overwhelming, but the Human Venture is shaped by the decisions and actions of individuals. How we invest our time and life resources matter.

    Explore how learning from the life story of humanity, its successes and failures, can help us contribute to the Human Venture. 


    Develop Adaptive Capacity

    The unprecedented nature of the challenges facing us means that conventional, routine learning will not be enough. Develop the foundational capacities to lead beyond convention.


    Explore Across Disciplines

    The challenges we face are systemic and cross-disciplinary. Specialization while necessary is not sufficient. Find out what our Associates are exploring.


    Join Our Learning Community

    We are a group of dedicated individuals who care deeply about the state of the world and where humanity is going. Join our newsletter.

    Take a course
    for a foundation in
    human learning ecology

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    Foundations

    Learn together with a class

    Associates

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    We are a group of people dedicated to figuring out how humanity can do better. Receive our latest thoughts, news and programs.