Futures

Exploring Future Concepts: Julio Cortázar’s Influence and Alternative Models, (from page 20240505.)

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Summary

The text explores concepts of the future through the lens of Julio Cortázar’s work, particularly in ‘Around the Day in Eighty Worlds’. It critiques traditional linear narratives of the future, proposing alternative ways to conceptualize time and futures, like the ‘Futures Cone’ by Joseph Voros, which categorizes futures into projected, plausible, possible, and preposterous. The author discusses the limitations of this model, suggesting that it overlooks the interplay of past, present, and future. Various alternative models are proposed, such as the ‘Entangled Time Tree’, which emphasizes a plurality of perspectives and the importance of memory in shaping our understanding of the future. The piece ultimately calls for a more nuanced approach to envisioning futures, recognizing them as diverse and interconnected rather than linear and predetermined.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Plurality of Futures Emphasis on multiple possible futures rather than a singular trajectory. Shifting from a linear, singular view of the future to a multi-faceted perspective. A greater acceptance and exploration of diverse futures in planning and decision-making processes. Growing recognition of the complexity of societal issues and the need for inclusive approaches. 4
Integration of Past and Future New models for visualizing futures that incorporate past experiences and histories. Transitioning from futures that focus solely on projection to those that interweave past narratives. Enriched understanding of how past events shape future possibilities in various fields. Desire for a holistic approach in understanding history’s impact on future outcomes. 5
Decolonial Futuring Emergence of frameworks that challenge Western-centric views in futures thinking. Moving from a Eurocentric model of futures to a more inclusive decolonial perspective. Increased diversity in futurist practices, acknowledging indigenous and marginalized voices. The global movement towards social justice and equity in various sectors. 5
Critical Memory Engagement Highlighting the role of memory in shaping perceptions of the future. From viewing memory as static to recognizing its dynamic role in future envisioning. More emphasis on personal and collective memories in shaping future narratives. Increasing awareness of how historical context influences contemporary challenges. 4
Alternative Visualization Methods Development of new metaphors and tools for understanding futures beyond linear models. Shifting from traditional visualization methods to innovative, non-linear representations. Broader adoption of varied visualization techniques that reflect complexity in futures studies. Desire for creativity and innovation in thought processes regarding future planning. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Colonization of Future Narratives Linear future models may limit alternative perspectives and reinforce dominant narratives, undermining diverse understandings of potential futures. 4
Erasure of Historical Contexts Emphasizing linear futures risks overlooking the complexities of past influences on present and future scenarios. 5
Exclusion of Diverse Epistemologies Adopting a singular approach to futurism risks marginalizing multiple ways of knowing and understanding the world. 4
Stagnation of Imagination Relying on conventional future visualization methods may stifle collective imagination and innovative thinking. 3
Reduction of Plurality in Futures A focus on mainstream futures concepts can erase the nuances of diverse cultural and historical perspectives. 4
Overshadowing Social Inequities Dominant narratives of progress may ignore or exacerbate existing social inequities as seen in historical critiques of developments like the Apollo program. 5
Risk of Fatalistic Views on Future An overly deterministic view of future trajectories can lead to disengagement and a feeling of helplessness regarding change. 4

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Plurality of Futures Embracing multiple perspectives on futures rather than a single linear narrative, acknowledging diverse interpretations of pasts and futures. 5
Non-linear Futuring Engaging with the future in non-linear ways, recognizing the entanglement of past, present, and future rather than adhering to linear trajectories. 5
Collective Imagination Cultivating collective imagination to envision alternative futures, encouraging collaboration and shared visions among diverse groups. 4
Decolonial Futuring Challenging traditional Western frameworks of futurism by integrating indigenous and alternative epistemologies into future imaginaries. 5
Memory as Future Understanding memory as a dynamic process that shapes our future visions, recognizing its influence on how we envision possibilities. 4
Critical Engagement with History Exploring how historical narratives influence present and future imaginings, emphasizing the need for critical reflection on dominant narratives. 5
Experiential Learning in Futuring Using experiential and creative methods to explore futures, allowing individuals to connect personal histories with collective futures. 4
Visualization of Futures Developing diverse visualizations to represent multiple futures and pasts, moving beyond simplistic or linear representations. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Futures Cone A visualization tool depicting the range of possible futures, from projected to preposterous, to aid in strategic planning and foresight. 4
Scenario Development A futuring approach that involves creating detailed narratives about how the future could unfold based on current trends and uncertainties. 4
Backcasting A method for developing steps towards a preferred future by envisioning the desired outcome and working backwards to identify necessary actions. 4
Entangled Time Tree A visualization that represents time as a baobab tree, linking multiple pasts to present experiences and future possibilities in a non-linear manner. 5
Afrofuturism-inspired ART(ifacts) A design practice that connects past personal histories with present inequities to inspire future creativity within marginalized communities. 4
Uncertainties Cone Exercise An exercise that encourages participants to look at future possibilities from multiple perspectives, challenging linear thinking about futures. 3
The Cones of Everything An alternative futures visualization that incorporates subjective perspectives and connects past and future in a more inclusive manner. 4
Double Cone A conceptual tool that combines speculative futures with speculative pasts to enrich narrative approaches to history and future narratives. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Plurality of Futures The concept of envisioning multiple alternative futures instead of a singular trajectory, promoting diverse perspectives in future studies. 5
Colonization of Future Narratives The critique of dominant future narratives that may suppress alternative perspectives and histories, potentially leading to a homogenized vision of the future. 4
Impact of Memory on Future Imagining Exploration of how collective and personal memories shape our expectations and visions of the future, influencing social narratives. 4
Decolonial Approaches to Futuring Emerging frameworks that challenge conventional, linear future narratives and incorporate indigenous and diverse epistemologies. 5
Interconnectedness of Past, Present, and Future Recognition of the non-linear relationships between past experiences, present realities, and future possibilities, advocating for a holistic view. 5
Speculative Design and Futuring The use of design practices that draw from cultural histories and personal narratives to create visions of the future, particularly in marginalized communities. 4
Role of Collective Imagination Emphasis on the importance of collective imagination in envisioning and navigating possible futures, encouraging community engagement. 4
Alternative Visualization Techniques Development of new visual paradigms for representing futures, aimed at escaping traditional linear models and fostering creativity. 4