Futures studies

From ArticleWorld

Futures studies, sometimes called Futurism, attempts to predict and analyze what might occur in the future of human history. A broad field, futures studies explores, extrapolates, and portrays what the present could become from multiple, interdisciplinary perspectives. Futures studies uses a wide range of theoretical models, and practical methods from other disciplines including economice, sociology, history, mathmatics, and more. What set futures studies apart from these other disciplines is that futures studies examines not only the probably, but also the possible and preferable outcomes. Futures studies also attempts to gain a more holistic view than any single discipline.

Trends

Potential new trends, or trend babies grow from innovations, beliefs, or actions that have the potential to grow enough to go mainstream in the future. Branching trends are trends that relate to one another, much the same way in which a tree-trunk relates to its branches and twigs. Mega-trends extends over many generations, or even periods prior to human existence. There are a few different ways to determine when something becomes a trend. One way to determine a trend is when other trends start to branch off of it. Also, some say that when fifteen to twenty-five percent of the given population integrates it into daily life, it can then be considered mainstream.

Predictions

Futurists have a mixed reputation and a patchy track record at successful prediction. 1950s futurists predicted commonplace space tourism by the year 2000, but ignored the possibilities of cheap computers. Marxist predictions of utopia have also failed to materialise. On the other hand, many forecasts have portrayed the future with some accuracy. Currently, futurists usually offer multiple scenarios that help their audience envision what may occur instead of attempting to predict the future. They claim that understanding potential scenarios helps individuals, and organizations, prepare for the future with flexibility.