Watch Future by Design

Future by Design is an inspiring and thought-provoking documentary that explores the life and work of Jacque Fresco, a visionary futurist and social engineer. The film, which was released in 2006, is directed by William Gazecki and features interviews with Fresco, as well as with some of his colleagues, friends, and admirers. The documentary begins by introducing Fresco and his background. Born in 1916 in Brooklyn, New York, he grew up during the Great Depression and witnessed firsthand the inequalities and injustices of the economic and political system. This experience shaped his worldview and his desire to create a better world for all people.

Fresco became interested in science and technology at a young age and started designing machines and inventions that he believed could solve social and environmental problems. He went on to study architecture and industrial design and worked in these fields for many years. However, he became disillusioned with the limitations and shortcomings of these disciplines and decided to devote his life to social activism and education.

The core of Fresco's philosophy is that humanity needs to transition from a monetary-based economy to a resource-based economy in order to solve the many problems facing our planet. He argues that money is a hindrance to progress and that a resource-based economy would allow us to efficiently allocate resources and meet the basic needs of all people. He envisions a world where technology is used to serve humanity, rather than the other way around.

The film showcases Fresco's many projects and ideas, which range from sustainable cities and transportation systems to alternative energy sources and food production methods. He also discusses his ideas for education, which emphasize hands-on learning and creative problem-solving.

Throughout the documentary, Fresco is portrayed as a passionate and optimistic thinker, who believes that humanity has the potential to create a truly equitable and sustainable world. Despite the many challenges we face, he remains hopeful that we can overcome them if we work together and use science and technology for the common good.

The film also includes interviews with some of Fresco's colleagues and admirers, including Larry King, who praises Fresco's vision and dedication. However, the documentary does not shy away from criticism and presents some of the objections and concerns that have been raised about Fresco's ideas.

One of the main criticisms of Fresco's philosophy is that it is overly optimistic and impractical. Some critics argue that a resource-based economy is not feasible and that it would require a radical transformation of human behavior and values. Others claim that his ideas are utopian and ignore the complexities of human society.

Despite these criticisms, the film is a fascinating exploration of one man's vision for a better world. It showcases the power of ideas and the importance of thinking outside the box when it comes to solving complex social and environmental problems. Fresco's work remains relevant today and his ideas are still being discussed and debated by thinkers and activists around the world.

Overall, Future by Design is a powerful and inspiring documentary that will leave viewers thinking about the future and their role in shaping it. It is a must-see for anyone interested in science, technology, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The film is a testament to the power of human imagination and the potential for positive change.