Since the early 1990s interest in foresight has increased which has, in turn, led to a rapid growth in formal foresight studies backed by governments and transnational institutions (including many from the United Nations). From relatively small beginnings in Japan in the 1970s, these formal studies have spread around the world. Dispelling the belief that anticipations are ?mere guesswork?, this original work conveys the depth of thought needed to understand human foresight. Much of the material underpins PREST?s internationally known foresight course, which the author developed and directed for five years between 1999 and 2003. It examines: the role of foresight and its institutional counterpart in the modern world the epistemology underlying foresight the need to extend foresight activity into spheres wider than those of the recent past, including sustainable development, and ways of doing so the role that foresight plays inplanning processes (including scenario planning). Practical experience of how to conduct foresight studies continues to be spread through courses and international collaborations, and texts that counterbalance in-depth practical experience with integration of theory are rarities. This unique book fills that gap succinctly; its content is readily available and relevant to entrepreneurs, business people, investors, inventors, scientists, politicians, and many others.