Anticipation and future vision in Nicolai Hartmann's ontology

Purpose – This article aims to explore anticipation from an ontological point of view and to analyze in particular some of Nicolai Hartmann's ideas. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents a conceptual analysis of an ontological theory of anticipation. Findings – Analyzing philosophical problems related to “futures” and “anticipation”, to the framework of modal categories, and connecting Hartmann with Ludwig von Bertalanffy and comparing the outcome with some Artistotelian theses, offers a philosophical perspective on futures studies. Research limitations/implications – The “human” phenomenon of anticipation will be defined as possibly the only form of authentic anticipation, interpreted as a teleological act. Originality/value – The result is obtained through the distinction, articulated for each level of reality, among different kinds of determination.