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Institute of
Futures
Research

Mission

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.

– Our Work –

Since 2019, our activities involve promoting original research that fall within the scope of IFR’s mission. We strive to bring these works to both professional and popular audiences, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the philosophy of futures studies.

Our community-building initiatives serve to bring together individuals and groups interested in futures studies. Through these initiatives, we aim to create a vibrant and diverse community that can contribute to and shape the discourse around futures studies.

Outreach efforts are geared towards garnering support for the recognition of futures studies as an independent academic discipline. We believe in the value and potential of futures studies and are committed to its advancement.

– Our Roadmap –

As we continue to expand our understanding of the philosophy of futures studies, our roadmap includes the following key initiatives:

1. Establishing Partnerships
Our initial focus is on establishing partnerships with academic institutions, businesses, and governments to foster collaborative efforts. These partnerships will be critical in advancing the philosophy of futures studies, both in academic circles and in real-world applications.

2. Collecting Signatures

We are also in the process of collecting signatures from students, academics, researchers, and policymakers in support of the philosophy of futures studies. This initiative will demonstrate the field’s growing relevance and importance and contribute to its recognition as an independent academic discipline.

3. Creating a Registered Community
Target Benchmark: Upon collecting 1,000 signatures
Once we have collected 1,000 signatures supporting the philosophy of futures studies, we will create a registered community for students, academics, researchers, and policymakers. This community will be accessible to its members for communication and collaboration.

4. Founding a Peer-Reviewed Journal
Target Benchmark: Upon establishing the registered community
Following the establishment of the registered community, we plan to found a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the philosophy of futures studies. This journal will utilize peer-to-peer technology to ensure a rigorous and transparent review process.

5. Launching of Publication, Futures Communications
Target Benchmark: Upon the first successful call for papers and editing round
When a sufficient volume of original philosophy of futures studies research has been reviewed, we will publish the first edition of Futures Communications.

6. Organizing Conferences and Events
Target Benchmark: Upon establishing five key partnerships
Upon successful establishment of our first five partnerships, we plan to organize conferences and events to bring together the global community of futures thinkers. These events will serve as platforms for the exchange of ideas and the fostering of collaborations.

– Organizing Principles and Structure –

IFR operates under the principles of inclusivity, collaboration, innovation, and rigor, guided by the vision of our two founding members. We promote a culture that values the free flow of ideas and respects diverse perspectives.

Looking towards the future, we envisage forming an Outreach Committee, staffed by volunteers who share our mission. This committee will be crucial in spreading awareness of futures studies, forging relationships with potential partners, and attracting new members to our community.

In all our endeavors, we remain committed to a consensus-based decision-making process, ensuring every voice is heard and valued. Irrespective of our growth, we will preserve a flat organizational structure that encourages active participation and nurtures intellectual curiosity.

– Connect with Us –

Your insights, questions, and comments are invaluable to us. If you’re interested in our work, want to learn more about the philosophy of futures studies, or would like to explore collaboration opportunities, we would love to hear from you.

Please feel free to reach out to us at contact@ifrdigital.org or use the contact form on our website. Our team is committed to responding to inquiries promptly and thoroughly. Whether you’re an academic, a student, a policymaker, or simply someone intrigued by the future of futures studies, your perspectives are always welcome at the Institute of Futures Research.