The Palgrave Encyclopedia of the Possible

The Palgrave Encyclopedia of the Possible is a comprehensive resource for researchers and practitioners exploring the study of how we engage with and cultivate the possible within self, society, and culture. It examines the notion of the possible from psychology, philosophy, sociology, neuroscience, and logic, as well as multidisciplinary fields.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1786 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The Palgrave Encyclopedia of the Possible is a comprehensive and groundbreaking resource for researchers and practitioners exploring the emerging field of the possible within psychology and the social sciences. This multidisciplinary area delves into the intricate relationship between individuals, societies, and cultures, examining how we engage with and cultivate the potential within ourselves, our communities, and our broader cultural context.

Rather than being an opposition to the actual or the real, the possible operates in conjunction with concrete facts and experiences, leading to transformative outcomes. This encyclopedia explores the concept of the possible from various perspectives within psychology, philosophy, sociology, neuroscience, and logic, as well as interdisciplinary fields such as anticipation studies, future studies, complexity theory, and creativity research. By presenting diverse viewpoints on the possible, the authors examine the distinct social, cultural, and psychological processes that shape our engagement with new possibilities across diverse domains, including the arts, design, and business.

Within the pages of this encyclopedia, readers will find a wealth of information and insights into the many dimensions of the possible. The authors examine the role of imagination, counterfactual thinking, wonder, play, inspiration, and other cognitive and emotional processes in fostering our ability to perceive and explore new possibilities. They explore how these processes shape our creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities, and how they contribute to personal and societal growth and transformation.

The Palgrave Encyclopedia of the Possible also sheds light on the social and cultural factors that shape our perception of the possible. It examines how societal norms, institutions, and power structures influence our beliefs about what is possible and what is not. It explores how cultural differences, historical contexts, and individual experiences shape our attitudes toward risk-taking, creativity, and innovation. By examining these factors, the encyclopedia provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between the individual and the social, and how we can create more inclusive and equitable societies that embrace the full range of human potential.

In conclusion, The Palgrave Encyclopedia of the Possible is a indispensable resource for anyone interested in the study of the possible within psychology and the social sciences. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on this emerging field, providing a rich tapestry of information and insights that will be valuable to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers alike. By exploring the relationship between the individual and the social, the possible, and the transformative power of imagination and creativity, this encyclopedia contributes to our understanding of the complex and dynamic world we live in and the potential for positive change that lies within us all.

Weight: 3855g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030909123
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022