ABSTRACT
Predictions Some studies select certain variables which they believe will play an important role in shaping the future circumstances of a particular society. They then monitor the course of these variables to demonstrate their influence on the destiny of that society. Under this method, the future is regarded as predetermined and preordained; it merely needs to be unveiled through a prediction that people must accept. Naturally, this prediction directly reflects the variables chosen by the researcher, as well as the phenomena on which he focuses. Consequently, there are a large number of mutually conflicting predictions and counter-predictions. For example, some focus on demographic variables and the manner in which the continuation of contemporary civilization on its present course will deplete the resources of the world; they therefore predict imminent perdition as a result of this increasingly rapid depletion which will deprive mankind of the material requirements needed for survival. This has prompted others to make counter-predictions in which they refute that prospect and deny that resources will be insufficient to meet human needs, thereby absolving contemporary civilization from the accusation that it is leading the world into destruction.
