ABSTRACT
In The Image of the Future (1961) F. L. Polak has traced the human preoccupation with the future to its ancient roots in Delphic oracles and astrological priesthoods. However, the modern history of the future originates with the rise of science and onset of the age of exploration. Armed with the techniques of modern science, especially the new measuring devices of precise clocks and telescopes, a secular priesthood seized hold of the idea of a perfect future, a zone of experience beyond ordinary history and geography, a new region of time blessed with a perfect landscape and a perfection of man and society. Nevertheless, there exists a continuity from the ancient astrologers of the temple, tribe, and city to modern scientists, for both are elevated castes who profess special knowledge of the future-indeed, establish a claim of eminent domain over the next stages of human history.
