We identify high-impact hypothetical scenarios based on active policy debates, emerging research, and global trends. Each scenario is framed as a clear, testable proposition.

Data Aggregation

Key statistics are sourced exclusively from peer-reviewed research, government data, and reputable institutions. Every data point is cited and traceable.

Balanced Analysis

Pros and cons are presented with equal rigor. We do not advocate for outcomes -- we present the strongest evidence on each side and let the data speak.

Read Full Methodology

About the Author

Daniel Miranda

Daniel Miranda is the creator and curator of The What If Index. With a passion for rigorous data analysis and evidence-based reasoning, Daniel builds this platform to explore the world's most consequential hypothetical scenarios.

The What If Index represents a commitment to intellectual honesty, balanced analysis, and the belief that good reasoning about the future requires engaging seriously with complexity and uncertainty.

Platform

The What If Index

Focus

Data-Driven Analysis

Mission

Rigorous Reasoning

Connect

Explore the FutureThrough Data.

This Week's Scenarios

What if the 4-day workweek became standard?

All Scenarios

What if college tuition were fully subsidized?

What if student loans were forgiven entirely?

What if standardized testing were eliminated?

What if K-12 adopted year-round schooling?

What if AI replaced 50% of classroom instruction?

What if trade schools replaced traditional universities?

What if teachers were paid like engineers?

What if homeschooling doubled nationwide?

What if schools banned smartphones?

What if education funding were tied to outcomes?

What if online degrees became dominant?

What if public universities became income-share based?

What if student performance data were fully transparent?

What if private schools were publicly funded?

What if college admissions were lottery-based?

What if financial literacy were mandatory?

What if STEM funding doubled?

What if grading systems were abolished?

What if remote learning became permanent?

What if higher education enrollment declined 30%?

What if college athletes were salaried employees?

What if the NBA removed the salary cap?

What if NIL rules were fully deregulated?

What if youth tackle football were banned?

What if women's sports received equal funding?

What if sports betting were federally restricted?

What if the Olympics eliminated amateur status?

What if performance-enhancing drugs were regulated, not banned?

What if high school sports became club-only?

What if concussion protocols became stricter?

What if major leagues shortened seasons?

What if athletes were taxed differently?

What if salary caps were tied to revenue growth?

What if international leagues merged?

What if AI optimized player recruitment?

What if eSports surpassed traditional sports revenue?

What if private equity owned most franchises?

What if refereeing became fully automated?

What if athlete contracts were performance-indexed?

What if streaming replaced all broadcast deals?

What if the 4-day workweek became standard?

What if minimum wage doubled?

What if corporate tax were reduced to zero?

What if unions expanded significantly?

What if remote work became mandatory?

What if AI automated 30% of jobs?

What if antitrust laws were strengthened?

What if stock buybacks were banned?

What if profit-sharing became required?

What if small businesses received universal subsidies?

What if supply chains localized?

What if ESG reporting became mandatory?

What if venture capital funding declined 50%?

What if gig workers were classified as employees?

What if global tariffs increased significantly?

What if manufacturing reshored to the U.S.?

What if corporate board quotas were mandated?

What if inflation remained above 5% for 10 years?

What if automation taxes were introduced?

What if CEO pay were capped?

What if the Electoral College were abolished?

What if term limits were imposed on Congress?

What if campaign donations were capped?

What if voter ID laws were nationwide?

What if gun ownership were heavily restricted?

What if marijuana were federally legalized?

What if alcohol age were reduced to 18?

What if federal taxes were flat?

What if states controlled more federal programs?

What if universal healthcare were adopted?

What if border policy tightened significantly?

What if social media regulation expanded?

What if Supreme Court term limits existed?

What if lobbying were banned?

What if ranked-choice voting were nationwide?

What if income tax were eliminated?

Explore the Future
Through Data.