Eleonora Barbieri Masini

A vision of futures studies

Abstract The article looks at futures studies from the point of view of the author who has spent over 30 years in the field, with special reference to the World Futures Studies Federation. It suggests that visions are essential for conducting futures studies and education in futures studies is vital for preparing future oriented new generations. The author points out that around the world women are developing silent alternatives to the present societies geared to conflict and violence; this may lead to non-violent changes of which many are not aware. Futures studies will also benefit from examining futures of cultures as we seem to be developing a new culture of peace.

The future of futures studies: A European view☆

Abstract In Europe futures studies had an important initial impetus, from an epistemological and philosophical point of view, in the work of Bertrand de Jouvenel, F. Polak, O. Flechteim and others. This has had an influence both on the field of futures studies and on its major perspectives. This has been challenged by history but, at the same time, emphasis has been placed on the normative approach. In viewing the future of futures studies, a specific European perspective emerges, even within the similar areas of interest shared with US work but also because of the distinctive historical process of Europe. Futures studies will continue to challenge a linear perspective of the future and to be more an instrument for clarification of goals and objectives.

Women as builders of the future

Abstract This article suggests that as the industrial society is in a transition crisis, women have a major role to play in building a peaceful, post-industrial society. It outlines how women have been marginalized by industrial society, and how this has allowed them to develop and work with their own sets of values and priorities. These values, which are in conflict with those of the industrial society, make women more adaptable to change and more able to facilitate change.

Futures studies in Italy and The limits to growth

Abstract This article describes the introduction of futures studies to Italy and especially the contribution of Aurelio Peccei, the founder of the Club of Rome and an inspiration behind The limits to growth. To set the scene, the author shows how Italian futures studies absorbed technocratic and visionary ideas from prospective studies in France, particularly those of Bertrand de Jouvenel and Gaston Berger. The author explains Aurelio Pecceis role in promoting Limits and the Club of Rome. She reflects also on her own personal involvement with Peccei, as a friend, as member of the Club of Rome, and as a long-standing participant in the Italian and worldwide futures movement.

Women and the young in perspective

Abstract The ways in which women will influence the future are examined through descriptions of their influence with children and the young, particularly with regard to womens participation in the construction of alternatives more suited to future society. Data and experiences are drawn from both North and South, and the foundations of womens influence are seen as deriving both from inter-generational relationships and the historical process.

Futures research and global change

Abstract Futures research must be carried out on the basis of people having the right to choose their own future. There is thus a need, particularly in the developing countries, for the spread of training in futures to those who will themselves be shaping their own future, and this places responsibilities on futures specialists in the developed North. The global value changes underway must also be confronted if futures research is to retain its relevance. A ‘project approach’ is preferred, which embraces both extrapolative and normative futures methodologies.

The long term impact of Betrand de Jouvenel

Abstract Second Thoughts is an attempt to stimulate the collective memory of futures studies (FS) and to enable us to reflect on the meaning of quality in relation to earlier work. Have standards improved? If so, in what ways? What earlier ideas succeeded or failed? Which writings have stood the test of time? What important areas remain to be tackled? This feature appears several times a year, depending on the number and quality of contributions received. The editors welcome short, constructively critical articles between 800 and 1500 words on any topic, idea, book or person which has contributed to the development of FS as we understand it today. Articles about little-known pioneers are as welcome as those about well-known names. The series continues with three views of the impact of Bertrand de Jouvenels thinking on the study of the future.

Women as capturers of social change

Synopsis The need for a great change in the logic of human actions and events is needed. Women with their capacities, different from those of men who have built the present world, may be able to bring about such a change with men, by bringing to light and action such capacities.

Human resources in developing countries

Abstract A key futures issue is the ability of developing countries to meet the increasing demand for qualified people with the skills necessary to use the emerging and increasingly sophisticated new technologies. Following a review of IT in higher education, data are presented on human resources in the developing countries, and the role of international programmes in reinforcing such resources is examined.

The future of futures conferences: responses

Abstract In a letter to the editor in Futures 20, (6), December 1988, Igor Bestuzhev-Lada proposed alternative approaches to the organization of futures conferences, and suggested some high-priority problems for discussion. The two letters below were written in response to his proposals.