Labels are important. Few major decisions are made solely in the public or private sector. Beyond analysis and forecasting, good futures thinking requires synthesis, alternatives, and choice. Parties in power should never announce national goals, because those not in power demand instant fulfillment. Technology assessment is not a discipline or profession.
Labels are veryimportant.
Doomsday scenarios and outrageous statements attract the media and conference goers. The pursuit and success of futures activities are highly dependent on what individuals do with those activities. Futures, foresight, and issues management are not disciplines or professions, but they can be pursued in a professional manner by members of many professions. Good labels are essential. Futurists work at seeing things in new ways.