Public forecasting and futures studies in Germany

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to present the key actors in Germany in the field of public forecasting and futures studies.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking into account the highly decentralized nature of German institutions, and the reforms carried out since the reunification, it analyses the contributions of the main economic institutes and foundations of the country. It gives a detailed account of their methods, means, topics of research, and impact on public debate, together with up‐to‐date links to the main web sites.

Findings

The dominant approach tends to be economic forecasting, carried out by major institutes that rely on academic logic. Societal futures studies are not so well served and are less recognized.

Originality/value

Provides an insight into the state of futures research in Germany and its characteristics.

Citation

Hérault, B. (2006), "Public forecasting and futures studies in Germany", Foresight, Vol. 8 No. 6, pp. 71-77. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636680610712540