A Conceptual Framework for the Applicability of Futures Studies: Implications of Fuzzy Set Theory for Futures Studies

Articles in Press

Document Type : علمی - پژوهشی

Authors

Futures Studies Group, Social Sciences Faculty, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.

10.30471/mssh.2025.10740.2615

Abstract

Futures studies, as an interdisciplinary field within the social sciences, require implication research to sustain and enrich their depth by leveraging the philosophical, ideological, or theoretical insights of emerging paradigms. The aim of this study is to present a conceptual framework for the applicability of futures studies and to provide a foundation for similar research endeavors. By doing so, scholars and researchers in this field can save time while demonstrating greater interest in conducting such studies, thereby enhancing the dynamism and flexibility of futures studies. Additionally, to facilitate its application and highlight the prominent role of fuzzy set theory, the implications of this theory for futures studies have been examined.

This research is applied and qualitative in nature. Data were collected through a documentary method, drawing from articles and books available in reputable scientific databases using digital files. The data are qualitative, and the primary analytical method employed is thematic analysis, conducted within the framework of implication research methodology. The conceptual framework for the applicability of futures studies comprises four dimensions: ontology, epistemology, assumptions, and methods, encompassing a total of twenty-eight components. The implications of fuzzy set theory for futures studies were found to be limited solely to the methodological dimension. Within this dimension, linguistic term processing had the most significant implication and was applicable to all methods. Fuzzy classification ranked second, being relevant to six methods. The third and final contribution was the fuzzy inference system, which was applicable only to robust decision-making and scenario planning.

Keywords

Methodology of Social Sciences and Humanities

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 17 August 2025

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