For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by futurism – examining the state of the world and the trajectory of today’s emerging trends and technologies in an effort to map out a range of possible futures. So I have been particularly enjoying two books I recently picked up, The Next Fifty Years and What’s Next?

The first is a collection of essays from 25 of the world’s leading scientists, with each of whom looking ahead at the progress and impact of their respective field in the next fifty years. (I am particularly proud to say that two of my favorite Yale professors, Paul Bloom and David Gelernter, are included in the book; more importantly, they live up in their writing to the exceedingly high standard they set in their classroom lectures and discussions.)

The second is a slightly shorter-gazing attempt, looking ahead just ten years, but compiling the thoughts of 50 more broad-ranging thought leaders (economists, historians, inventors, scientists, artists) on a truly comprehensive array of topics (economics, geopolitics, culture and societies, belief systems, technology, science, environment and civilization).

While there’s plenty to disagree with in both books, either one certainly provides quite a bit of bang for the buck in terms of thought-provoking mental stimulation. If you feel as though it’s been a while since you thought as hard as you could, pick up both, and give your brain a jog. I’m certainly enjoying it myself.