The problem of how best to plan for Arizona's future is approached from two different angles. First, an outline is presented of 10 key assumptions regarding the most likely scenario for the United States in the 1980's. Assumptions are that there will be an unstable international environment but no nuclear war; fiscal conservatism in all areas of government spending except defense; a 100% increase in oil prices; almost double digit inflation; a revival of capital investment; major technological advances in electronics, energy, and biotechnology; low growth in the labor force; continuation of fertility rates at or below replacement levels; continued basic value shifts; and significant increase in citizen participation in decision making. The second approach is to discuss three dimensions which are perceived to be of critical importance to Arizona's future--rapid movement toward a postindustrial society (i.e. from a predominantly goods-producing society to a services-producing one), increase in the participatory nature of society, and recognition that planning for Arizona must be tailored to specific needs and must consider possibilities, probabilities, and preferences. The conclusion is that Arizona policy planners will help shape the best future for Arizona if they take into consideration the emerging four Ps--postindustrialization, participation, planning, and people-oriented society. (DB)