In modern Russian science fiction, the name of author Wind Taro occupies a prominent place. Wind Taro is a pseudonym, since the author works in an organization deeply rooted in reality: employees interested in the distant future are extremely rare there. Wind Taro is known for his books, which are published in print and electronic form: these include adventure sci-fi, time travel narratives, and shared-universe series, such as «S.T.A.L.K.E.R.» Among his books, notable titles include «I Have a Name» and «The Incredible Diplomatic Adventures of Dick Pelagin, Consul of the Russian Interstellar Federation.» The mission of the «Futurating» portal resonated strongly with the author’s thoughts — and he gave us an exclusive interview.
How do you envision the bright future of the world 50 years from now?
The Russian Interplanetary Federation — that is how I see the world, much like in my book about Dick Pelagin. Humanity will come to a unified vector of development: through voluntary, conscious, and fair unification. The world will become unipolar, with culture, intellect, and morality serving as its solid foundation. Mars will be colonized, with missions driven by a thirst for knowledge.
A new branch of power will emerge — spiritual-intellectual, overseeing the level of moral and cultural growth in society. People will realize the value of education and inner light — as long as the bulbs don’t burn out. Fierce technologies will become a natural part of everyday life: electric cars, unrestricted internet, smart cities.
What global changes, in your opinion, will lead to the creation of this future?
The main turning point will be the liberation of the world from foreign ideological pressure from conservative forces that fear change. Humanity needs to learn to respect differing viewpoints without imposing its own vision on others. The next important step will be improving the quality of education: not just the transfer of knowledge, but the cultivation of a thinking, responsible individual.
And, of course, attention to the spiritual upbringing of future generations. For it is in children and adolescents, in their perception of the world, that the code of tomorrow is embedded.
What major challenges must humanity overcome to achieve a bright future?
We face enormous trials — climatic and demographic. Climate change could devastate entire regions, forcing millions of people to leave their homes. Demographic imbalances are another facet of the crisis: some countries are aging, while others are growing uncontrollably. Both processes require wise, collective regulation.
But perhaps the most dangerous challenge today is neural networks. They are already capable of altering the very fabric of your «firmware»: making life easier or distorting the familiar world. Everything depends on who wields the tool and with what intentions. Artificial intelligence can become humanity’s best friend — or its most cunning ordeal.
What technologies or social innovations do you consider key for positive transformations?
The development of personal gadgets — not for consumption, but for convenience, communication, and enlightenment. Ease of work, the ability to work anywhere and grow regardless of financial status. Social mechanisms are important: cashback, affordable loans, raising the minimum wage — things that add confidence in tomorrow.
But the cultural sphere is no less important. When theaters are full again, when lectures and exhibitions become a source of pride rather than snobbery — then the general level of thinking will change. I believe that culture can become the fuel of progress. Soap operas to soap.
What role do you personally see for yourself as a science fiction writer in creating this future?
A writer, especially a sci-fi writer, always works with the future — not just as an idea, but as a moral testing ground. My books are an attempt to remind people of goodness, even through frustrating plots and difficult scenes. For if evil temporarily triumphs, the reader should feel why it is doomed. And if good emerges victorious, they should understand that victory requires will, compassion, and intelligence.
If even one person, after reading, ponders where the line between honor and advantage lies, then the meaning of what I have written is justified.
What do you think needs to be done today to accelerate the arrival of the desired future?
If every person honestly tries to live by these principles — respecting one’s neighbor and not harming the world — then change will accelerate without any reforms. A bright future is built not from above, but from below — from conscience. A conscience full of prickly hedgehogs.
How can a writer’s creativity and imagination influence real changes in society and culture?
The influence of art is colossal. People often underestimate how deeply their worldview is shaped by books, films, or songs. Mass culture can disappoint and enchant, while elite art can inspire or repel.
That is why a writer bears responsibility not only for the plot, but also for its consequences.
A writer must understand what feeling they awaken in a person — despair, hope, anger, or compassion. Because ultimately, it is culture that shapes the society in which we live.
Photos from open sources
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