This thesis will aim to retrace the birth and developments of the French method of future thinking: Prospective. Alternately a philosophy, a discipline and a state tool, it underwent numerous changes, reflecting a shifting sensibility toward the notions of progress, modernity, and who should shape the future. Often understood through an occidental lens, this thesis will follow another path by investigating postcolonial networks of expertise and the uses of the method in the Third World.., a discipline and a state tool., it underwent numerous changes., reflecting a shifting sensibility toward the notions of progress., modernity., and who should shape the future. Often understood through an occidental lens., this thesis will follow another path by investigating postcolonial networks of expertise and the uses of the method in the Third World.