There's a growing public disenchantment with democracy and the modern political process. So, here's a solution: citizens’ juries—ordinary people who are given the information and training to make decisions on civic issues. It’s all part of an approach known as deliberative democracy, aiming to build stronger and more useful connections. But, do these measures work...

When we think of underground space many of us think of carparks, subways and storage. Or we think of dark science fiction scenarios – mole people living deep below our cities! But as we move into an increasingly urbanised 21st century – is it time to rethink the way we construct? And start building down...

Steampunk is a burgeoning subculture. Part Victorian gothic, part sci-fi fantasy, it’s growing in popularity and ambition. At first glance, Steampunk represents an alternative technological vision of the future—one powered by steam rather than modern forms of energy. But at its heart, it’s not really about technology at all, it’s a playful challenge to our...

The humble light-bulb has now entered the ‘smart’ technology zone. Australian inventor Phil Bosua has created a screw-in LED bulb that’s also a Wi-Fi enabled computer. His device could do for lighting what the smart-phone did for the mobile. And he’s not alone in his efforts to reinvent and re-interpret artificial illumination. Welcome to the...

Three very different perspectives on the evolution of the city. We look at the history of four ‘future’ cities; we examine the role of the suburb in the 21st century; and we hear from architect Joyce Hsiang, the co-creator of the incredibly ambitious City of 7 Billion Project. Guests Daniel Brook Journalist and author of...