Ada Palmer is a historian, science fiction author, and professor at the University of Chicago. Known for her Hugo-nominated Terra Ignota series, she blends deep historical knowledge with imaginative worldbuilding to explore the interplay of ideas, governance, and human potential. Ada’s work often reflects her academic focus on intellectual history, Renaissance studies, and the evolution of thought.

Dall-E is a GenAI tool from OpenAI.

Ada envisions a future where education addresses foundational societal challenges:

• Moving beyond standardized tests to cultivate creativity and problem-solving skills.
• A well-educated populace resists the concentration of power by making informed choices, ensuring that decision-making reflects diverse voices rather than a privileged few.
• Preparing people to transition from repetitive work to fulfilling, creative roles as automation reshapes labor markets.
• Transforming teaching into a respected and well-paid profession to attract top talent.
• Encouraging continuous learning through life to navigate a rapidly evolving world.