Weighing foresight with due diligence and the precautionary principle

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate with examples the prudence of using or not using ample precautions before launching a strategy or plan of foresight.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of practical episodes illustrate the effects of predetermined care and precaution, or their absence, in different fields of human endeavour.

Findings

With foresight and determination, pondered safeguards may spell out beforehand the success or failure of an undertaking.

Research limitations/implications

According to the span and scope of available historical experience, getting the future right often seems more difficult than getting it wrong,

Originality/value

Planners, strategists and designers should profit from the types of cases reviewed to ensure the solidity of their procedural foresight today for its implementation tomorrow.

Citation

Richardson, J. (2009), "Weighing foresight with due diligence and the precautionary principle", Foresight, Vol. 11 No. 1, pp. 9-20. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636680910936413