Is extraction economics coming to an end?
Join me on March 21 at 1PM GMT as we explore civilization-level transformations with James Arbib and Tony Seba
Stellar Futures & Post-Extraction Economics with James Arbib and Tony Seba
Searching For The Question Live 105
Explore the transformative ideas from the book “Stellar: A World Beyond Limits And How To Get There” by James Arbib and Tony Seba. We examine how converging technologies are creating a fundamentally different economic system where production requires no ongoing extractive inputs, and what this means for society, governance, and human potential.
In the conversation we explore their concept of a "Stellar World" – a possible future economic system beyond extraction. We discuss how technologies like solar, wind, batteries, AI, and precision fermentation are converging to create abundant energy and production systems that operate with virtually zero marginal cost. The discussion covers both the technological foundations of this transition and its profound implications for economic models, ownership structures, governance, and human psychology.
Stellar represents a transformative vision for human civilization based on a fundamentally different production system than the one that has dominated since the Neolithic Revolution.
At its core, Stellar proposes that emerging technologies like solar, wind, batteries, precision fermentation, AI, and robotics form a new type of production system that—once built—requires no constant external inputs. Unlike our current "extractive" system that demands an endless flow of resources, labor, and capital (the "X-flow"), Stellar technologies only need a "seed" of materials to become self-sustaining and self-improving.
The key proposition is that these technologies, when properly implemented, can create a system that:
Produces boundless outputs at near-zero marginal cost
Eliminates scarcity as the organizing principle of society
Ends the "growth imperative" that drives environmental destruction, conflict, and inequality
Creates "super production" and "radiance" that can heal environmental damage
Stellar argues that as these technologies reach an "ignition point," they make private ownership and traditional economic structures obsolete. The authors propose we must redesign ownership models and governance systems to ensure benefits are shared by all, preventing dangerous "chimeras" where Stellar technologies are trapped in extractive systems.
Stellar envisions a complete metamorphosis of civilization—comparable to the shift from hunter-gatherer to agricultural societies—that fundamentally transforms our economies, our relationships, consciousness, and human potential.
Here are some of the questions that will guide our conversation:
Could you explain how the Stellar energy system differs fundamentally from just having cleaner versions of our current energy infrastructure?
You argue that reaching the "ignition point" requires private investment but then makes private ownership obsolete. You propose 'sunset mechanisms' for ownership that reward innovation while eventually transferring benefits to all. What specific models could make this transition acceptable to investors and companies?
Your projections suggest a complete transformation within 20-30 years. How do you reconcile this timeline with historical precedents for infrastructure transitions and the massive global coordination required?
Your work distinguishes between "seed flow" and "X-flow." Could you elaborate on this distinction and why it matters for policymaking today?
What metrics do you propose to replace GDP in measuring economic health during and after this transition?
How do you see the role of democratic governance evolving in a Stellar system where AI may handle much of the complexity, and what safeguards would ensure human values remain central as AI takes on more decision-making responsibility?
You identify "chimeras" as dangerous mismatches of Stellar technologies within extractive systems. What current examples concern you most?
How might geopolitical competition accelerate or hinder the transition to a Stellar system?
What psychological or cultural barriers do you see as most challenging to overcome in this transition?
You suggest that Stellar technologies will create 'radiance' that heals environmental damage or even individual health. What scientific basis supports the idea that these technologies can not just stop but reverse environmental degradation?
You describe the need for 'Stellar nurseries' where communities can experiment with new models. What existing places or initiatives do you see as early examples or precursors to these nurseries?
If someone is convinced by your analysis, what specific actions would you recommend they take now, either personally or professionally?
How does the mission of Stellar World differ from or build upon the work of RethinkX, and what led you to create this separate initiative?
Stellar's mission states it aims to "inspire, equip, and accelerate" the transition. What specific educational resources, tools, or frameworks are you developing to equip changemakers beyond the book itself?
Your mission mentions providing "guardrails necessary to drive action." What guardrails do you see as most critical during this transition, and how do you plan to implement them without constraining innovation?
How do you measure success or impact in your mission to accelerate the transition to a Stellar World? What metrics or milestones are you tracking?
Given that both RethinkX and Stellar focus on technology-driven transformation, how do you balance your optimistic vision with legitimate concerns about technology concentration and control?
Your mission emphasizes a "ripple effect" approach to change. Can you share examples of early adopters or communities you're already working with who are implementing Stellar principles?
About James Arbib
James Arbib is a visionary thought leader, historian, investor, and philanthropist dedicated to exploring how disruptive technologies can address humanity's greatest challenges. As co-founder of RethinkX and the Stellar World initiative, James brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective that bridges technology, economics, history, and systems thinking.
With a background that includes studying history and working in finance before focusing on environmentalism and technology disruption, James has developed a holistic approach to understanding civilization-level change. He founded the philanthropic foundation Tellus Mater, which supports exploring disruptive technology's potential for solving complex global problems.
James's intellectual journey led him from traditional environmental approaches to recognizing that technological transformation offers more profound solutions than incremental reforms. His work combines rigorous analysis with bold, long-term thinking about humanity's future possibilities.
In partnership with Tony Seba, James has co-authored groundbreaking research on transportation, energy, and food system disruptions.
https://x.com/jamiearbib
https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-arbib-6883973a/
About Tony Seba
Tony Seba is a world-renowned author, thought leader, and entrepreneur focused on technology disruption and its profound implications for society. As co-founder of RethinkX and a key visionary behind the Stellar World initiative, Tony has pioneered frameworks for understanding how converging technologies transform industries and civilization itself.
His groundbreaking work includes development of the Seba Technology Disruption Framework™, which has proven remarkably accurate in forecasting major shifts in transportation, energy, and food systems. Tony's 2014 book "Clean Disruption" predicted the rapid decline of fossil fuels and rise of solar and electric vehicles with timelines that proved far more accurate than those of mainstream analysts.
With expertise spanning computer science, business strategy, and systems thinking, Tony has advised governments, corporations, and investors worldwide on navigating technological transformation. His research and speaking engagements have influenced decision-makers across five continents, challenging conventional thinking about the pace and scale of change.
https://tonyseba.com/
https://x.com/tonyseba
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyseba/
https://www.youtube.com/tonyseba
Stellar Worldwide
Stellar Worldwide Foundation’s mission is to inspire, equip, and accelerate the transition to a self-sustaining Stellar World—one where humanity’s activities regenerate rather than deplete, and where every person has access to the food, energy, and agency they need to thrive.
Nice! I'm looking forward to it.