Public futures studies: themes and variations

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to present an analysis of today's key themes in the field of public futures studies.

Design/methodology/approach

Compares publicly available research results on futures activities in countries including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, The Netherlands, Quebec, Sweden, the UK.

Findings

The paper shows that there are striking similarities between countries in terms of themes and topics for public futures study and also that the themes are relatively stable over time. However, specific topics are determined by the challenges of the day: the themes are abiding, the subjects are changing.

Originality/value

The paper offers an interesting approach of the state's changing roles and priorities across the world. To help readers go further, links to web sites of the most relevant futures studies institutions are provided.

Citation

Hérault, B. (2006), "Public futures studies: themes and variations", Foresight, Vol. 8 No. 2, pp. 57-69. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636680610656183