Abstract
This article examines the significance of future-oriented activities, by way of reviewing discussions on "hope" and "expectation" in the fields of sociology and science and technology studies. First, the article explores relevant Japanese discussions, paying special attention to kibo-gaku "social science of hope". The specific assumptions made in this field are found to carry certain limitations. Moreover, although future-oriented activities such as Technology Assessment and foresight exercises are increasing in Japan, the social sciences have made littile theoretical contribution to them. Second, the article turns to focus on the sociology of expectations, an interdisciplinary field emerging in Europe by combining science and technology studies, innovation studies, and sociology. Referring to concepts and empirical studies in the sociology of expectations, the article highlights the interaction of future-oriented activities with science and technology. In conclusion, the article suggests possibilities for bringing theoretical and practical discussions on future-oriented activities in Japanese social science.
