Patterns of the Future

Understanding the Next Wave of Global Change

Patterns of the Future explains the current world using the theory of long-term development waves (Kondratiev waves). Markku Wilenius, Professor of Futures Studies, argues that we are now entering the sixth wave: the age of intelligent, integrated technologies, helping to restore the balance between humans, technology and nature by radically improved material and energy efficiency and a wiser use of human potential.

The unfolding sixth wave will challenge our current values, institutions and business models. Using a systems-based approach, Patterns of the Future analyses how corporations and the public sector can navigate in the sixth wave. Case studies look at specific examples of this, using high-profile companies to demonstrate both the best- (and worst-) case scenarios of innovation for change.

This book spans concepts from multiple disciplines in the social sciences, making it relevant not only to undergraduate and graduate students in futures studies, environmental studies, economics, and business, but also national policymakers, think tanks, corporate operators and indeed for any one seriously interested in the future.

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Contents:

• Introduction
• What is Really Going On?
• The Pain and the Thrill of Uncertainty
• Wave of Advancement
• The Pulse of Planet Earth
• The Roar of the People
• The Meaning of Economy
• Singing the Praises of Entrepreneurship
• The Freedom of Leadership
• The Power of Education and Culture
• A Revolution of Awareness
• The Opportunity of Finland
• What Needs to be Done?
• Epilogue: Towards a Cooperative Society

Readership: National policymakers, think tanks and corporate operators; undergraduate and graduate students in futures studies, economics, ecology, business and social sciences.

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