Futures research at the frontiers of mind

Abstract

PurposeThe main purpose of this paper is to introduce futures researchers to simple and practical ways they can employ intuitive intelligence to enhance their research.Design/methodology/approachThe author outlines five specific intuitive tools which have been developed and are used regularly. The incorporation of these tools into the research process potentially makes research more efficient, meaningful and exciting. This paper contains a strong anecdotal component, to exemplify the processes. There is also a theoretical aspect. The author expands the mundane definition of intuition, and use it in the classical sense, where it incorporates the idea of the extended mind. This is referred to as “integrated intelligence”. While this definition places it beyond generally accepted definitions of intuition found in modern psychology, it has a long tradition in the history of art, literature and science right through to the modern era. It is also consistent with recent experimental scientific evidence. Further, it fits well into recent developments in critical and post‐conventional futures studies, where “other ways of knowing” are being increasingly legitimatised.FindingsIntuitive intelligence can be used by futurists to make research more fluid, efficient and excitingResearch limitations/ implicationsThe theory of integrated intelligence is a new theory and has not been tested. It lies beyond conventional approaches to research in the WestOriginality/valueThis is a highly original and innovative approach which enhances research.