Image of the Future: Methodological Foundations

Abstract

   Relevance. This article analyzes the categories "image" and "image of the future" as a fundamental for various concepts of the image of the future. The relevance of this article is dictated by the radical changes taking place in Russia and in the world, which have called into question the existence of previous socio-economic and political systems.   The purpose of the study is to analyze the methodological foundations of the image of the future.   Objectives: to consider the concepts of "image" and "image of the future", based on the etymology of the words themselves and their relationship with other words and phrases: "model" (of the future), "picture" (of the future), "concept" (of the future); show the differences and similarities of the concept of "image" in psychology, philosophy and fiction; reveal the connection between the image of the future and the memory of the past.   Methodology. The methodological basis of the article is the historical-critical method developed in the German (R. Koselleck) and English (K. Skinner, J. A. Pocock) schools of the history of concepts.   Results. The relationship between the concept of "image" and the concepts of "model", "picture", and "concept" has been studied. It has been proven that it is the concept of "image" that is most suitable for connection with the concept of "future", because in the phrase "image of the future" two sides are inextricably linked: subjective and objective, which makes it possible to take into account both fantasies and real projects about the future. It is shown that the subject of the image of the future is not so much an individual as a certain community of people and that the image itself is between them, in the interaction that exists between people in society.   Conclusions. The conducted methodological analysis creates a philosophical basis for further research, both for subsequent methodological research and for various analyzes of specific aspects of the image of the future of Russia and the world as a whole.