People create value
Resources matter because people recognise, develop and put them to use. We see human potential as central to the strength of every organisation and nation.
About the Institute
We start with people.And stay curious.
IHNR explores how people, information and the resources around us shape development. We champion research, learning and environments that help individuals and institutions realise their potential.
People, shared learning and the questions that shape development.
Institute for Human and Natural ResourcesA changing idea of resources
People give resources their value. Knowledge expands what is possible.
For much of the modern era, development was explained through labour, enterprise, capital and land. By the mid twentieth century, many experts had come to emphasise the human factor: it is people who recognise value in resources and decide how to use them.
As the twenty-first century unfolds, IHNR also draws attention to information as a resource that is not consumed by use. We remain open to examining spiritual forces and resources too, an area long neglected by orthodox science. Our interest is in careful inquiry into what may help people, and discernment about what does not concern or serve them.
How the idea has evolved
Our understanding of resources has never stood still.
What societies value changes as knowledge changes. IHNR is interested in that movement and in what it means for people, institutions and nations.
Earlier thinking
Land, labour, capital and enterprise
These became familiar ways of explaining production, wealth and development.
A wider view
People as the active resource
Human knowledge, judgement and ability determine how other resources are discovered, organised and put to use.
Today
Information enters the picture
Information can multiply through use, making the relationship between people, knowledge and technology an increasingly important subject of study.
The human-information interface
Artificial intelligence brings an old question into sharper focus.
How nations manage the relationship between people, information and spiritual life will shape their ability to meet the future.
Information can improve lives, strengthen institutions and widen access to knowledge. But capability alone does not guarantee that an outcome serves human wellbeing.
IHNR believes thoughtful research, sound judgement and human-centred institutions will become increasingly important as artificial intelligence develops and the effects of information systems become more visible.
What guides our work
Curiosity matters. So does discipline.
IHNR values open inquiry, but openness does not mean accepting every claim. Ideas should be researched, discussed and tested.
Knowledge stays open
Research should cross borders and disciplines. Each useful discovery can add to what is already known and help shape better decisions and relationships.
Ideas invite challenge
Careful research can offer facts and perspectives without treating them as doctrine. Questions and challenges help knowledge grow and serve humanity.
Your role
Bring curiosity. Add to the conversation.
Information shared on our pages is intended to be factual, unorthodox and thought-provoking, grounded in deep research and the work of respected authorities.
We offer ideas to be examined, not treated as sacramental or doctrinal. You are welcome to use what you find here for your good, and equally welcome to challenge our thinking. In doing so, you can add to the body of knowledge and facts that may help humanity in the future.
Welcome to our Institute.