Wisdom in fragments

Video games are a medium through which we explore the nature and implications of computers. Recalling the early days of computers, large mainframes were used for serious tasks like missile trajectory calculations during the day. At night, enthusiasts would experiment with these machines, conjuring imaginary worlds of cave networks or empires, continuously discovering more engaging problems.

Game designer and NYU professor known for game theory and interactive entertainment

I would describe games as an art form centred around systems. Viewing the world as a system means perceiving it as a collection of interconnected elements. These elements interact in a way that both enables and restricts themselves and each other. Essentially, what is observed is the collective behaviour of these elements as they unfold over time, creating a range of possibilities.

Game designer and NYU professor known for game theory and interactive entertainment

The endurance of games like backgammon or chess lies in their continual presentation of an interesting problem. These strategy and decision-making games are like a well from which we draw insights. As a game designer, I can attest that while creating games, most rule combinations aren't inherently fascinating. Often, a game concept might initially seem uninteresting or static, and despite efforts to invigorate it, it remains lifeless.

Game designer and NYU professor known for game theory and interactive entertainment

I do believe there's something fundamentally essential about free play—the open-ended combination of elements not confined by a narrow context. This concept is vital not only to humanity but to life itself. Consider Johan Huizinga, the sociologist and anthropologist who, in his book 'Homo Ludens,' famously argued that play is a necessary precondition for culture. I find this perspective accurate.

Game designer and NYU professor known for game theory and interactive entertainment

I see games as psychology experiments that we conduct on ourselves. This realization struck me while playing Sudoku. When you first encounter Sudoku, you're acutely aware of the rules you're applying to solve the puzzle. It's a conscious effort, like turning a crank and watching the puzzle get solved. However, as you progress, those initial heuristics, those rules of thumb, become internalized. You stop being aware of them; they become second nature, and you start focusing on more subtle, higher-level heuristics.

Game designer and NYU professor known for game theory and interactive entertainment

As a young athlete, there was a focus on personal achievements – it was all about me, my goals, and my 'little kingdom.' However, with age and more life experience, my perspective broadened. It's about the knowledge and experiences I've gained being actively reinvested into the world before I pass away.

British Paralympic sprinter and long jumper; multiple Paralympic medals

My personal stance is to respond positively to any question, no matter how awkward or inappropriate. I believe it takes courage to ask, and even if the approach is off, the curiosity is commendable. The key is to create an environment where it's okay to be wrong, as long as there's a willingness to learn and engage respectfully.

British Paralympic sprinter and long jumper; multiple Paralympic medals

What's truly astounding is the shared background of many Paralympic athletes. Initially, when the Paralympics and parasports were relatively unknown, these athletes were often the ones overlooked in PE classes, chosen last for teams, and discouraged due to their disabilities. This mindset can lead to incredible achievements, regardless of how unlikely they may seem at first.

British Paralympic sprinter and long jumper; multiple Paralympic medals

My aspiration, both pre- and post-accident, has always been to fully embrace life's offerings. For me, success isn't about the endpoint; it's about the journey – the growth from where I began and the rich stories gathered along the way. I'm passionate about setting ambitious goals, committing fully, and approaching them with courage and audacity.

British Paralympic sprinter and long jumper; multiple Paralympic medals

He describes mental wellness as an unwavering commitment to reality, regardless of the cost. Trauma, in this light, can be a powerful teacher, though its lessons often require revisiting. These moments offer a stark glimpse of reality, a contrast to the daily bombardment of trivial concerns.

British Paralympic sprinter and long jumper; multiple Paralympic medals

My sense of identity definitely evolved, becoming stronger due to the accident. It stripped away aspects I believed defined me, teaching me a profound lesson at 15: what truly defines me is unremovable. In essence, I learned that even if I lost every limb, my core identity – a hardworking, competitive, fun-loving person – would remain intact. Losses like money, job, or reputation can't diminish my inherent qualities – my fight, attitude, grace, and resolve.

British Paralympic sprinter and long jumper; multiple Paralympic medals

Each step I've taken was possible not solely through my own efforts but because of the profound support, trust, and camaraderie extended by many others. We've embarked on this journey together, and it's a path of continuous learning for me. I choose to focus on living my life with the intention of making meaningful contributions.

First Female President of Ireland & UN Human Rights Commissioner

Jade Begay, an indigenous woman with roots in a tribe in Mexico, shares a powerful sentiment from her culture: 'What if our best times are ahead of us?' This question challenges us to adopt a more hopeful and forward-thinking mindset, one that can inspire and motivate us towards positive action.

First Female President of Ireland & UN Human Rights Commissioner

What we urgently need is to cultivate a positive narrative, to energize and unite us in a collective movement. This isn't about asking everyone to do the same thing; rather, it's about fostering a 'movement of movements.' We encourage everyone to persist in their individual efforts, with the understanding that they are part of a larger, progressive force striving for a better world.

First Female President of Ireland & UN Human Rights Commissioner

It's baffling that $1.8 trillion is still being invested in harmful sectors. As a member of the B-Team of business leaders, we've identified that $1.8 trillion a year is spent subsidizing industries that harm us, predominantly fossil fuels. Redirecting a significant portion of these funds could dramatically accelerate our transition.

First Female President of Ireland & UN Human Rights Commissioner

We advocate for a 'feminist moonshot' approach, symbolized by the dandelion. The dandelion, a resilient flower and weed found on all continents, symbolizes our efforts. Despite its reputation as a nuisance, it's a plant I've grown to admire for its beauty, deep-rooting ability that rejuvenates the soil, and its edible qualities. Its seeds, spread by children, represent the spreading of our positive narrative towards a cleaner, healthier, more equitable world.

First Female President of Ireland & UN Human Rights Commissioner