The Alberta Teachers’ Association

In his 2005 book, A Whole New Mind, author Daniel Pink argued that “right-brainers” will rule the world in the future after the last century was dominated by logical types like those who are adept at crunching numbers, crafting contracts and programming code. Though the left-brain/right-brain dichotomy has been questioned by some, it provides a means with which to examine how we value different ways of being in the world.

Western society, Pink stated, has been dominated “by a form of thinking and an approach to life that is narrowly reductive and deeply analytical.”

“The future belongs to a very different kind of person with a very different kind of mind — creators and empathizers, pattern recognizers and meaning makers. These people — artists, inventors, designers, storytellers, caregivers, consolers, big picture thinkers — will now reap society’s richest rewards and share its greatest joys.”

As the world gets more complex and more global, capabilities related to logical analysis are no longer sufficient, Pink wrote. The future, he said, belongs to those who can harness the six senses: design, story, symphony, empathy, play and meaning.

Daniel Pink’s 6 senses

Design

Mere functionality is no longer sufficient in our products, services, experiences and lifestyles. Rather, it’s important, both from an economic and personal perspective, that our creations focus on beauty and emotional engagement.

Story

As we’re bombarded by information and data, the key to persuasion, communication and self-understanding is the ability to fashion a compelling narrative.

Symphony

Synthesis is another word that captures this idea of putting pieces together. It’s about seeing the big picture, crossing boundaries and combining “disparate pieces into an arresting new whole.”

Empathy

Logic isn’t enough. Those who thrive will do so because they are able to understand and care for others and forge relationships.

Play

Health and professional benefits await those who are able to avoid being serious all the time and embrace play elements such as laughter, lightheartedness, games and humour.

Meaning

As their material needs are met, human beings are free to “pursue more significant desires: purpose, transcendence and spiritual fulfillment.”