SINCE its inception, York Festival of Ideas has attracted world class thinkers.

Every year it gets bigger and 2014 promises to be the most impressive so far, with its ambitious theme of Order and Chaos.

Many of the world’s leading authorities will be on hand and we think one of the most thought provoking events will feature James Rubin, former Assistant Secretary of State in the Clinton administration, and Sir Richard Dalton, ex UK Ambassador to Iran and Libya who will address whether the international response to global crises is working.

But geo-politics is only one aspect. Speakers will also discuss how to make economic growth happen for the many not the few, how people return to order after the chaos of war and just how we feed a rapidly growing and increasingly hungry world population.

Few would argue that it is wrong we still can’t do this, especially because it’s often inextricably linked to conflict and corruption. But if York’s Festival of Ideas shows that scientists may have some of the answers at least it might give rise to hope.

This festival has always developed this city’s reputation for innovation and creativity . The 2014 theme promises to elevate it to an even higher level.