ABSTRACT
Futures studies can be characterized by the general ambition to support decision-making by supplying information of relevance in a long-range perspective. Generally speaking the function of futures studies, namely to provide information relevant in a very long-range perspective, accentuates many problems already familiar from various forms of policy analysis and planning. In some Swedish futures studies a time horizon defined by "the relative lack of major commitments so that consideration can be given to qualitative changes" has been suggested, thus implying an obvious orientation towards policy-making and action. Futures studies thus involve an effort not only to use but also to reconstruct theories and theoretical assumptions. In this way futures studies may have an effect on the development of theories within various disciplines. Various general approaches, such as systems analysis and policy analysis, which are often associated with futures studies, incorporate the use of analytical techniques of both the intuitive and the more rigorous kind.
