I present a view on designing the future based on the concepts of self-organization theory or synergetics. I show that large social systems – states, blocks, civilizations, ethnic groups, humanity as a whole – are at a bifurcation point. The choice that will be made consciously or unconsciously will determine subsequent development. An important role in this choice can be played by the strategy of mastering the “third nature” – the information and telecommunications space, which is playing an increasingly important role in the life of humanity. I demonstrate the systemic nature of the barrier facing us, the overcoming of which requires coordinated actions in the social, technological, cultural, and information spaces. A huge role on this path is played by responsibility and awareness of the choice that is now being made and, consequently, a scientific worldview. The formation of the latter requires new approaches in science and education, fundamental changes in which are also considered in this context.

designing the future, systems approach, self-organization theory, synergetics, order parameters, post-industrial barrier, non-uniqueness of the future, bifurcation point, information and telecommunications space, artificial intelligence, phases of ethnogenesis, futurophobia