TEDGlobal: 'ideas worth spreading'

TED is a small non-profit New York and Vancouver-based organisation that seeks to foster ideas and provide a platform for the world’s greatest thinkers.

TED, whose motto is “ideas worth spreading”, was founded by Richard Saul Wurman and Harry Marks in 1984. It has held conferences annually since 1990, including the one being held in Oxford.

Lectures, known as TED Talks, focused originally on technology, entertainment and design, but have expanded in scope to a broad set of topics including science, arts, politics, education, culture, business, global issues, technology and development. TED is owned by The Sapling Foundation, a private, non-profit foundation whose goal is to foster the spread of great ideas. It aims to provide a platform for the world’s deepest thinkers, visionaries and most inspiring teachers.

TED does this so that millions can gain a better understanding of the biggest issues facing the world and a desire to help create a better future. Core to this goal is a belief that there is no greater force for changing the world than a powerful idea.

Further information from www.ted.com