An essay in futurology: groups, networks and complexity in the open society

This paper uses several familiar expectations to create a larger scenario for postindustrial society. The transition is regarded as a major sociological event, of Renaissance proportions, in which the complexities of our circumstances will elevate the importance of multidisciplined teams. It is suggested that Britain, whose success with technologically innovative teams was brief, but memorable, before, during and after the Second World War, may play a leading part in the transition. It is probable that, just as the Renaissance transformed man´s vision of the world and of his own capabilities, so the great transition, which this essay anticipates, will transform the structure of society, at the same time enriching and extending our humanity.