The world is in the midst of a transition to a form of global society. Factors such as economic globalization, communications technology, human mobility, cultural influence and environmental change pull towards a unitary system, even as forces act against this connectivity. We live in a unique historical moment at which human activity can irreversibly alter the planet and its capacity to support life. Unprecedented levels of wealth, technology and institutional capacity can forge a just, peaceful and ecologically resilient future. However, the authors argue, social polarization, geo-political conflict and environmental degradation are threatening the long-term well-being of humanity and the planet. This text explores the alternative futures that could emerge from the resolution of these antagonisms. Based on extensive international and interdisciplinary research, it identifies the perils of market-driven scenarios and considers the possibility of the failure of conventional approaches. It also, however, presents a vision of the possibility of a Great Transition in which revised human values and development goals bring a new stage of civilization.