Extreme Policy 2025

Extreme policy ideas are all about pushing the boundaries of what we think is possible. They’re not necessarily meant to be taken literally but serve as a way to spark discussion and challenge assumptions. By imagining policies that completely upend the way we do things—whether in economics, governance, or social structures—we can better understand the ripple effects of big changes. These kinds of thought experiments are especially useful in a fast-changing world where technology, demographics, and global politics are constantly shifting.

The real value of extreme ideas is in how they force us to think beyond the usual constraints. When we take a radical concept and follow it to its logical conclusion, we start to see the hidden mechanics of our current systems more clearly. What happens if we remove certain rules, flip existing policies on their heads, or take an idea to its absolute limit? Even if the idea itself seems wild, the insights gained from exploring it can be incredibly useful. Sometimes, the best way to test the strength of a system is to imagine breaking it.

That doesn’t mean extreme policies should actually be implemented—at least, not without serious thought. But by engaging with them, we can prepare for unexpected challenges, identify new opportunities, and rethink how policies shape our future. Big changes, like automation, climate change, and economic shifts, demand creative solutions. Even if an extreme idea never becomes reality, it can still push debates forward, highlight risks, or even inspire more practical reforms. The point isn’t necessarily to advocate for radical change—it’s to think more deeply about where we’re headed.

Futures thinking serves as a visionary lens rather than a roadmap. It doesn't dictate the future but fuels imaginative exploration and conceptualization of potential scenarios. It's like a canvas where creativity meets strategy, allowing us to envisage diverse futures, stimulating innovative ideas, and fostering preparedness for what might unfold.

TPEX thinks about the future.