ABSTRACT
This chapter explores underlying explicit and implicit assumptions about the future by analysing future visions developed in future-oriented theorizing in political philosophy and in policy visions developed by various societal actors. It examines different ways of relating to the future from the standpoint of political philosophy. The chapter introduces a thought experiment of a bleak future where the world has been broken as a consequence of climate change, radical resource scarcity and economic meltdown. Economic growth is viewed as the prerequisite for societal development and this is reflected in visions of growing cities, digitization and increased trade with China and India. The vision developed by the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth is for use by the agency itself. The explicit goals for the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth are seen in facilitating the establishment and growth of more businesses and in strengthening regional development.
