Imagining curiosity-driven science and ethics from the perspective of future generations: A Future Design case study

Abstract Future Design (FD) is a participatory approach that invites people to adopt the perspective of imaginary future generations in order to reconsider present choices and long-term societal challenges. This study examines how such perspective-taking shapes interdisciplinary researchers’ reflections on the future relationship between curiosity-driven science, technological change, and ethical responsibility. As part of the Tsukuba Conference 2023, eight early- and middle-career researchers from diverse disciplinary and geographical backgrounds participated in two three-hour online workshops and a subsequent in-person plenary discussion. Participants acted as “time travelers” from 2053 and collaboratively wrote letters to people living in 2023. The resulting narratives revealed both convergent and contrasting future imaginaries. Both groups anticipated the pervasive integration of artificial intelligence into everyday life and science, while differing in their expectations regarding individualism, community, and empathy. Discussions further highlighted the changing meanings of human identity, the role of historical consciousness in future imagination, persistent concerns about inequality and marginalization, and the evolving nature of ethical norms. The findings suggest that the value of FD lies less in producing consensus or prediction than in enabling pluralistic reflection on uncertainty, intergenerational responsibility, and contested futures. The study contributes to participatory futures research by demonstrating how future-generation role-playing can support interdisciplinary ethical reflection on science and technology while also revealing limitations concerning representation, inclusiveness, and methodological interpretation.