Solving Problems Fast. As the global COVID-19 vaccine development e昀昀ort has showcased, technologies—often integrated in new and imaginative ways—can be quickly reapplied from their original use to solve crisis needs. The research that enabled the unprec- edented and rapid development of e昀昀ective COVID-19 vaccines built on decades of foun- dational investments in the health sciences. Similarly, challenges decades in the making, such as climate change, may be moderated by bringing together suites of technological solutions that each address one element of a much larger issue. Technology as Geopolitical Power. Technol- ogy is a tool of national power that the United States has long led through investments in re- search, innovation, and development. The next decades will see increasing global competition for the core elements of technology suprem- acy, such as talent, knowledge, and markets, potentially resulting in new technological leaders or hegemonies in the 2030s. Complex international supply chains, the global di昀昀u- sion of innovation, and investments by geopo- litical rivals could further impede the unilateral use of technology by nations to achieve their goals. Conditions are ripe for both greater international cooperation as well as new types of multifaceted competition and con昀氀ict that could de昀椀ne the coming era. Aggravating Social Tensions. The pace of technological change could increase societal tensions between those with the access, abili- ty, and will to adapt and those who are unable or unwilling to change. With the rapid spread and adoption of technologies, some individu- als, communities, and countries could make rapid advancements while others may be left behind with little hope of catching up, exacer- bating inequalities within and between states. 64 GLOBAL TRENDS 2040 Images / Bigstock