Institute of Futures Research

– Advancing the Philosophy of Futures Studies –

Welcome to the Institute of Futures Research, an organization dedicated to advancing the philosophy of futures studies and fostering a vibrant community of academics, researchers, and policymakers. Our mission is to explore and develop the rich intersection of futures studies and philosophy, focusing on two distinct but related domains: the examination of futures studies as a subject of philosophical inquiry, and the incorporation of philosophical methods, concepts, and frameworks into topics within futures studies.

Currently, the Institute of Futures Research is actively promoting original research, engaging in community building, and initiating outreach efforts to establish the philosophy of futures studies as an independent academic discipline. Our vision for the future includes hosting a variety of events such as talks, conferences, and workshops, designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among our members. We are also committed to formalizing a community registry for like-minded researchers and launching a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the philosophy of futures studies. We warmly invite individuals and institutions interested in exploring the multidisciplinary nature of our field to join us, contribute their expertise, and collaborate in shaping the future of this exciting and important area of study.

– Blog –

– Support the Philosophy of Futures Studies –

We invite academics, researchers, and students who share a passion for understanding the future and its potential implications for society to join us in publicly voicing support for the recognition of the philosophy of futures studies as an independent, mature, and dynamic academic discipline.

The philosophy of futures studies encompasses two realms:

1. Treating futures studies as a discipline subject to philosophical investigation, examining its ethical, epistemological, and methodological dimensions.
2. Incorporating philosophical concepts and methods into problems endemic to futures studies, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributing to a wide range of social, technological, and environmental issues.

This petition is independent of the Institute of Futures Research (IFR) and signing it confers absolutely no obligations. By adding your name to this petition, you are expressing your belief that the philosophy of futures studies, as an independent academic discipline, can enrich academic discourse and provide valuable insights for policymakers.

By supporting this petition, you are helping to:

1. Encourage universities, research institutions, and funding agencies to recognize and support the philosophy of futures studies as a distinct academic discipline.
2. Promote interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars and researchers in various fields, facilitating the exchange of ideas and approaches to better understand the complexities of the future.
3. Advance the development of innovative solutions to address emerging challenges and opportunities by incorporating a robust philosophical foundation in futures research.

To add your name in support of the recognition of the philosophy of futures studies as an independent academic discipline, please complete the form below. Your support is invaluable in our quest to foster a thriving intellectual community dedicated to exploring the intricacies of the future.

You may also consent to receive future emails from IFR, for instance, in the event a threshold level of support is reached for a philosophy of futures studies community facilitated by IFR. These emails would be sparse, and consent is not obligatory. We will validate your email address before confirming your signature.