Changes and Paradigm

Mehdi Motaharnia, a futurist and theorist, explores the role of social, political, and technological transformations in shaping the future of management and governance in the book “Changes and Paradigm: In the Realm of Future Management.” The work focuses on the concepts of “paradigm” and “bari-khshnasi (the science of analyzing historical trends)” to provide a theoretical and practical framework for understanding future developments. Notably, the book is part of a four-volume series, with this volume being the second. Five paradigms are discussed: 1. Positivism paradigm (reliance on objective and quantitative data), 2. Interpretivism paradigm (emphasis on subjectivity and human experience), 3. Critical realism paradigm (focus on power analysis and critiquing structures), 4. Critical rationality paradigm (focus on power analysis and critiquing structures), and 5. Transrealism paradigm, which addresses concepts beyond current reality. By examining these paradigms, the author demonstrates how each can serve as a lens to analyze future trends, from climate change to digital technology advancements. He stresses that understanding these frameworks is essential for designing management strategies in today’s era of uncertainty. The book’s central concept, “applied bari-chronology,” is defined by Motaharnia as a method for simultaneous analysis of the past, present, and future. This approach, by identifying driving forces (such as nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, or environmental crises) and key events (like the COVID-19 pandemic or new wars), helps managers anticipate future opportunities and threats. Although the book addresses complex philosophical and sociological ideas, it is written in clear language with tangible examples. Motaharnia uses specialized terms only when necessary, illustrating concepts with references to contemporary events (such as international sanctions or social protests). This makes the book appealing not only to political science and management students but also to social and economic activists.