James Canton, Ph.D., stands at the forefront of futurism, renowned for his profound insights into the evolving landscape of technology and society. As a prolific writer, he has authored seminal works such as “Technofutures,” “The Extreme Future,” and “Future Smart: The Game Changing Trends that Will Transform Your World.” His vision extends beyond the written word, as he serves as the director of the Institute for Global Futures (IGF) in San Francisco.
Established in 1990, IGF is a powerhouse think tank that specializes in forecasting innovation and trends. Under Canton’s guidance, the institute offers a spectrum of services, from keynote presentations to strategy consulting and futures research. IGF’s mission is to empower clients by enhancing their ability to predict trends in business, the marketplace, and society, enabling them to formulate and execute effective strategies. The institute’s advisory role spans diverse global trends, including climate, technology, retail, energy, economics, security, and cyber issues.
Canton’s influence extends to the national stage, as he became an advisor to the National Science and Technology Council on nanotechnology in 2003. Throughout his illustrious career, he has been a guiding force on advisory boards, including MIT’s Media Lab Europe and as the founding Co-Chairman of the Futures and Forecasting Track for Singularity University. Currently, Canton continues to share his wealth of expertise as a member of the Corporate Eco-Forum Advisory Board, solidifying his status as a luminary in the field of futurism and innovation.