Table 2 Producing futures: mechanical versus aesthetical modes of engaging
From: The future as aesthetic experience: imagination and engagement in future studies
Production type | Produced by following | Mechanical mode of engaging | Aesthetical mode of engaging |
|---|---|---|---|
Extrapolations | Trends | A mechanical continuation brings a message of massive inevitability. | The suggestion of a clear path invites to speculate about detours and alternatives. |
Delphi | Experts | The future comes from one corner only: experts. We are not expected to deviate. | The views of experts may be unexpected and surprising. It may prompt a counter-narrative. |
Surveys | Responses | It presents how ‘everybody’ responds, in various categories. This can be alienating: looking at others, not me. | The responses may contrast with our views and reshuffle the futures that accompanied us thus far. |
Simulations | Models | The models present outcomes as matters of fact, presenting an external world. | Models may express a variety of futures. So many possibilities! |
Scenarios | Extremes | As scenarios are based on extremes, they appear as foreign worlds. | Scenarios provide a set of widely different directions, inviting novel narratives. |