Finding time for the future and overcoming future avoidance

Abstract

Purpose

To present the degree to which futurists (inadvertently perhaps) encourage future avoidance or deflection.

Design/methodology/approach

Identifies instances and examples of future deflection and avoidance attributable to the misplaced zeal of forecasters.

Findings

Proposes five strategies futurists can use to turn avoidance into acceptance.

Originality/value

To call attention to the negative impacts of forecasters and forecasts on audiences and to suggest ways to eliminate or limit such audience alienation.

Citation

Buchen, I.H. (2005), "Finding time for the future and overcoming future avoidance", Foresight, Vol. 7 No. 6, pp. 3-7. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636680510630902