JUCS - Journal of Universal Computer Science 32(5): 695-710, doi: 10.3897/jucs.151158
Exploring Future Prophecies: An Overview of the Late 20th Century into the 21st Century and the First Phase of Artificial Intelligence
expand article infoVívian Santos Marques Severino, Lílian Santos Marques Severino§, Edna Dias Canedo|, Gilmar dos Santos Marques|
‡ Brasília University, Brasilia, Brazil§ Brazilian Institute of Education, Brasília, Brazil| Brasília University, Brasília, Brazil
Open Access
Abstract
 The article examines predictions made at the end of the 20th century about contemporary society, assessing which have been confirmed or refuted at the start of the 21st century, and explores the impact of the first phase of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Considering contributions from renowned authors such as Bauman, Castells, Kahneman, Nicolelis, and Acemoglu, the study investigates forecasts related to liquid modernity, network society, information era, economic power concentration, and technological advances. The research aims to understand how these predictions influence current society and its policies through a comparative analysis of documents and literature drawing parallels between past forecasts and current developments. Among the findings, Bauman's prediction about volatility and freedom in liquid modernity is confirmed, noticeable in work flexibility and dissatisfaction with consumption. Castells accurately predicted organizational decentralization and global collaboration, despite persistent digital inequality. Rifkin forewarned of job reductions due to automation continuing to face challenges in the current market. Schwab emphasized the Internet of Things (IoT) impact, increasing economic inequality. Chomsky predicted the intensification of corporate power and media manipulation; Nicolelis highlighted the therapeutic applicability of brain-machine interfaces, though limited by ethical issues. Harari emphasized the transformative impact of AI and biotechnology, still holding authoritarian nuances. Acemoglu and Robinson emphasized the importance of inclusive institutions in preventing stagnation. The research highlights the need for ethical governance and regulation of technological innovations, emphasizing the urgency of evolving policies to ensure social equity in the era of technological advancement. 
Keywords
Information Era; Contemporary Society; Artificial Intelligence; AI Governance; AI Regulation
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