The text discusses the emerging field of Critical Futures Studies (CFS), aimed at deconstructing and evaluating images of the future by posing critical questions. It highlights a foundational set of inquiries that assess both individual visions of the future and the broader political economy influencing these perspectives. Additionally, it recommends the book “Our Shared Storm” by Andrew Dana Hudson, which uses speculative fiction to explore climate-related scenarios. The article showcases the importance of understanding underlying motivations in future narratives and their implications.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergence of Critical Futures Studies | Focus shift from future creation to deconstruction | Enhanced understanding of future narratives | Desire for transparency in future visions |
| Framework for evaluating future visions | Questions to examine power structures | More critical public engagement in futures | Need for informed decision-making |
| Speculative fiction as a learning tool | Fiction intertwines with futures thinking | Greater empathy in climate discussions | Climate change awareness |
| Science fiction’s influence on tech trends | Narrative origins shape technological trends | Critical analysis of tech narratives | Recognition of storytelling’s power |