This GitHub project explores how to:
✅ Build modular narrative systems that expand over seasons and quests. ✅ Design story-powered payment systems that turn transactions into experiences. ✅ Grow sustainable gaming enterprises around live storytelling, community co-creation, and ethical monetization. ✅ Create ecosystems where players return not out of compulsion, but love for the story.
An Intergenerational Future Study model contextualized within Indian mythology, folklore, and generational value systems. This fusion explores ancient cultural wisdom and modern anticipatory governance to imagine just, inclusive, and regenerative futures across generations.
At Smart Story Labs, we are excited to announce a new GitHub project that dives into the transmedia narrative of Yakshi – reimagining this South Asian folklore spirit as a lens to explore cross-cultural storytelling, feminist hauntings, and ecological narratives.
This paper examines the power of the UAE abaya. Moreover, it is concerned with the exploitation of luxury in the pursuit of social status and the attainment of greater freedom within an authoritarian context. As will be argued, the abaya has transitioned from serving the state in the process of identity formation to becoming a non-state actor capable of challenging dominant strictures and providing for policy alternatives. However, while the new or revamped abaya has contributed to self-actualization and made taboo topics more visible, it is also important to note that some Emiratis or minority groups may end up being excluded from this largely luxury-driven process. For the leadership, this could create an unenviable situation, particularly when considering the potential rift between the promises outlined in the state vision and the prerequisites needed for its implementation. With this in mind, the present analysis is also intended to assist policymakers working on tolerance and social cohesion, as well as those striving to position the UAE as a major point of reference in global affairs.
As the first universal museum in the Arab world, Louvre Abu Dhabi (LAD) aims to cover all aspects of human history, promoting inclusivity and openness. Despite being hailed as a symbol of tolerance and intercultural dialogue, some shortcomings and valid criticisms are evident. This study explores LAD’s artistic and political roles, as well as its contribution to social cohesion and the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE’s) readiness to address broader issues in line with the UAE Centennial Plan 2071. The analysis also delves into the responsibilities of cultural initiatives, the challenges of operating within an authoritarian context, and the necessity for policy reconsideration to achieve the UAE’s ambitious visions. The fact that LAD has undoubtedly served state interests highlights its limitation in engaging with the broader mission of museums—to address often-unpleasant political and socioeconomic matters. Moreover, the article asserts that constructive exchanges about critical issues should be embraced as opportunities rather than threats; suppressing these discussions through censorship and fear undermines the potential for growth and understanding. Thus, the study calls for a balanced approach where cultural institutions like LAD can foster dialogue and contribute meaningfully to the social and political landscape of the UAE.
This paper explores the parallels between Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and religious systems in three domains: creation, agency, and meaning-making. Both offer frameworks for human engagement but differ in intent, autonomy, and moral accountability. Despite these differences, GenAI and religion share roles as creators, influencers, and meaning facilitators. We address and counter rebuttals to these parallels, highlighting GenAI’s co-constructed outputs and its impact on modern meaning-making. The paper concludes with the societal implications of these parallels in shaping future thought and action.
This paper investigates Isaac Asimov’s impact on modern artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, focusing on how his visionary narratives and Three Laws of Robotics resonate with current technological practices and ethical debates. Analyzing specific predictions from Asimov’s works that have materialized in today’s AI applications, we draw parallels between his fictional insights and real-world technologies from leading tech firms. The study further considers the social implications of AI, including issues of human displacement and trust. We also discuss the progress and challenges in formulating global ethical standards for AI, reflecting on national and international efforts. The analysis highlights Asimov’s lasting influence and the ongoing importance of ethical deliberation in the AI field.
This white paper is a response to Industry Canada’s public call for expert consultation on AI and Copyright. The consultation had specific questions, which are reproduced with our
answers, below.