Definition The Anthropocene is a (contested) term used to describe a new era in Earth’s history that started when humans began having a major impact on the planet. This includes things like climate change caused by human activity, the extinction of many plants and animals, and big changes to the land, oceans, and atmosphere. Example … Read more
Definition The field of robotics and automation involves the design, development, and use of machines (robots) and computer systems to perform tasks traditionally done by humans, often with increased efficiency, precision, and speed. Example The automotive industry has widely adopted robotics and automation, particularly in assembly lines. For instance, Tesla’s Fremont factory uses hundreds of … Read more
Definition Anticipation in the context of futures thinking or strategic foresight refers to the ability to foresee and prepare for future developments, challenges, or opportunities. It involves analysing trends, identifying potential scenarios, and taking proactive steps to adapt or capitalise on them. Example Disney’s Theme Park Expansion: Disney strategically anticipates future trends in entertainment and … Read more
Definition The Delphi Method is a structured communication technique used to gather expert opinions through a series of questionnaires and controlled feedback rounds. It aims to achieve a convergence of opinion on a specific real-world issue or forecast. Example The RAND Corporation used the Delphi Method in the 1950s and 1960s to forecast the impact … Read more
Definition The branch of applied ethics that deals with moral principles and values related to long-term planning, decision-making, and the potential consequences of current actions on future generations and scenarios. Example Long Now The development of the Long Now Foundation’s 10,000 Year Clock project, initiated by Danny Hillis in 1986, embodies futures ethics. This massive … Read more
Definition Innovation refers to the process of creating new ideas, products, services, or methods that bring about significant change or improvement. It involves introducing novel solutions to existing problems or enhancing current practices in meaningful ways. Tools Design Thinking: A problem-solving approach that encourages user-centred innovation by understanding customer needs, brainstorming solutions, and prototyping. Blue … Read more
Definition Creativity is the ability to generate novel and valuable ideas, solutions, or products. In the context of foresight and futures thinking, creativity involves imagining and conceptualising possible future scenarios, innovative solutions to anticipated challenges, and new opportunities that may arise from emerging trends. Example World Wide Web A real-world example of creativity in futures … Read more
Definition There are two terms that make me itch a little when I hear them: futurology and future-proof. There are much better terms to use. ‘Futurology’ is an outdated term and sometimes creates the impression of either of fortune telling and other non-scientific approaches, or conversely it implies that the future can be predicted accurately … Read more
Definition Deep learning is a subset of machine learning in artificial intelligence that uses neural networks with multiple layers (hence “deep”) to analyse various factors of data. It imitates the way humans gain certain types of knowledge, with artificial neural networks that simulate the structure and function of the human brain. Example AlphaGo A real-world … Read more
Definition Drivers of change are forces, trends, or factors that have the potential to significantly shape the future. These can be social, technological, economic, environmental, political, or values-based influences that act as catalysts for transformation in society, industries, or organisations. Example Digital Transformation A real-world example of a driver of change is the ongoing digital … Read more