We Are Gonna Make It

Professor Steve Fuller - Interview on Value Creation

This podcast delves into the intricacies of innovation, technology, and the philosophy underpinning modern-day entrepreneurship. The questions for Professor Steve Fuller revolve around several core themes: 1. Differentiating Advantage for a Proprietary Technology The conversation begins with an exploration of what constitutes a differentiating advantage in the realm of proprietary technology. It challenges the notion that knowledge and opportunity are universally accessible, thus questioning how one can establish a unique edge in a democratized digital landscape. The discussion is steered towards the philosophical underpinnings that should guide the development of such a distinguishing feature. 2. The Role of History and Retro-Futurism The dialogue progresses to the significance of historical precedents in technology and the concept of retro-futurism. It interrogates the common belief that technological advancements are unique occurrences, advocating instead for a perspective that views historical figures as contemporaries and history as a wellspring of yet-to-be-realized ideas. This section illuminates how past insights can inspire future innovation. 3. Value Creation through Learning Building on Eric Ries' principles from the Lean Startup methodology, the discussion shifts to the transformative potential of software and the pivotal role of learning in value creation. The emphasis is on the proactionary imperative as essential for learning and navigating the challenges that accompany knowledge creation, advocating for a shift in focus from mere production to validated learning as a measure of progress. 4. The Value of Improvising Reflecting on the parallel between technological innovation and improvisational theatre, this part of the conversation explores the necessity of improvisation in navigating the uncertainties inherent in innovation. It draws on the analogy to improvised theatre to highlight the unscripted yet collaborative nature of pioneering new solutions. 5. Breakthroughs and the Role of Faith in Innovation The podcast touches on the non-linear journey towards innovation, suggesting that breakthroughs require either indefinite perseverance or strategic pivoting. It draws a parallel with Kierkegaard's concept of the Knight of Faith to discuss how faith and belief can propel innovators past seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The closing remarks reiterate Eric Ries' vision of the future's dependence on our collective imagination, commending the Professor for his contributions to expanding the horizons of innovation. The overarching theme of the podcast is a deep dive into the philosophical and practical aspects of creating technology with a lasting impact, emphasizing the blend of historical wisdom, imaginative foresight, and the relentless pursuit of learning as the cornerstone of successful innovation. Special Thanks to the Executive Producer - Luke Robert Mason