Foundations of Futures Studies

About

Foundations of Futures Studies is a comprehensive resource on futures studies, written by Wendell Bell. The book is part of a two-volume effort that aims to establish futures studies as a distinct field of intellectual inquiry, similar to other disciplines like anthropology or zoology. It serves as a foundational text for courses in futures studies, providing intellectual tools and methods to explore alternative futures. The work is designed to empower both ordinary people and leaders to create better futures by demystifying the future and increasing human control over it. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the history, purposes, and knowledge base of futures studies. It explores methods and exemplars in futures research, offering insights into how to think systematically about the future. By addressing both the scientific and ethical aspects of futures studies, Bell's work contributes to the development of the field while providing tools for specialists across various disciplines to incorporate futures thinking into their work. The book appeals to sociologists, economists, political scientists, and historians interested in understanding and shaping the future.