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What should exist?
To me, that's the most exciting question imaginable. What do we need that we don't have? How can we realize our potential? What will it take to solve important problems and improve people's lives? What should exist, and how might we create it—right now?
I have always been captivated by new ideas that answer these questions. From technology to science to music to art, I'm inspired by those who've blurred the boundaries, who've looked at the possibilities, and said, "What if...?"
In my own work, I've tried to anticipate what's coming over the horizon, to hasten its arrival, and to apply it to people's lives in a meaningful way. Challenges inspire me, whether it's pushing further into space than any private citizen ever has, as with SpaceShipOne or into the inner reaches of the human mind, as with the Allen Brain Atlas initiative. The varied possibilities of the universe have dazzled me since I was a child, and they continue to drive my work, my investments, and my philanthropy.
I hope you believe, as I do, in the inexhaustible ability of human beings to find answers to problems, to create works of beauty and originality, and to craft vital new ideas inspired by those who've gone before. The possible is constantly being redefined, and I care deeply about helping humanity move forward.
To me, there's nothing more gratifying than that.
Paul G. Allen.
 The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation celebrated its 20th Anniversary with an announcement July 15 about special grants to honor founders of successful Northwest non-profits. "Today I also want to announce that my philanthropic efforts will continue after my lifetime." |
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