Future Convergences: Time Matters

Abstract

material is concerned, specifically the rights of translation, reprinting, reuse of illustrations, recitation, broadcasting, reproduction on microfilms or in any other physical way, and transmission or information storage and retrieval, electronic adaptation, computer software, or by similar or dissimilar methodology now known or hereafter developed. The use of general descriptive names, registered names, trademarks, service marks, etc. in this publication does not imply, even in the absence of a specific statement, that such names are exempt from the relevant protective laws and regulations and therefore free for general use. The publisher, the authors and the editors are safe to assume that the advice and information in this book are believed to be true and accurate at the date of publication. Neither the publisher nor the authors or the editors give a warranty, expressed or implied, with respect to the material contained herein or for any errors or omissions that may have been made. The publisher remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Futures Studies for Design Systems and Social Transformation from Time/Space-Based Perspectives

“…A time-based approach to futures studies is a momentous paradigm shift that aligns with the idea of the founding of a new civilization as advocated by futurists at the beginning of the millennium [16]. The predictions of the altered relationship between research and development, that were introduced by the Club of Rome, and the reality that shows that technological development, at least so far, have not made up for the scarcity of resources [17] making it necessary to rethink lines of development and growth that follow different time frames and speeds, which, at times, may even produce retroversions [18]. The end of the glorification of the single future has led to an awareness of the need for plural futures [19][20][21] and even the idea of time must be allowed for in its multiple forms; this allows for greater openness [22] to the creation of alternative futures or futures that can inexorably take us backward and futures that also belong to other countries and parts of the world unheard of so far.…”