Future Design: Incorporating Preferences of Future Generations for Sustainability

This book explores how current decision-making affects imaginary future generations, highlighting the need to consider the interests of future generations beyond the present. It draws from the Native American Iroquois' perspective of incorporating the interests of people seven generations ahead.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 227 pages
Publication date: 27 July 2021
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the realm of speculative future generations, exploring the profound impact of present-day decision-making on those yet to come. While markets and democracies primarily orient themselves towards the present, they often overshadow the fact that we are currently living in the present, with a lineage of ancestors preceding us and a future generation awaiting our presence. Markets excel at temporarily balancing supply and demand, but they fall short when it comes to allocating resources between current and future generations, as these future generations have yet to materialize. Similarly, democracy, which is designed to serve the interests of the current generation, becomes irrelevant for future generations. Recognizing these limitations, the authors embark on a thought-provoking journey, examining imaginary future generations and envisioning future ministries within various domains, including the environment, urban management, forestry, water management, and finance. The concept of imaginary future generations originates from the Native American Iroquois, who possessed deep-rooted norms that mandated them to consider the interests of people seven generations ahead when making decisions. This visionary approach underscores the importance of considering the long-term consequences of our actions and making choices that will pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come. By exploring these hypothetical scenarios, the book offers valuable insights and practical strategies for policymakers, business leaders, and individuals alike, empowering them to make informed decisions that will shape a better world for future generations.

Weight: 373g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811554094
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020