How to have a POV
We resort to dramatic binaries, either painting the future through the lens of stressful dystopias and exclusionary utopias.
Sublime • How to have a POV
Yet, despite this abundance of enthusiasm for cultural research, it often feels like it’s easier than ever to slip into the gravity well of banality. Cookie-cutter essays optimized for algorithmic engagement. Hot takes stripped of depth. Fleeting fads interpreted as extreme, paradigm-shifting hyperbole. We resort to dramatic binaries, either... See more
Sublime • How to have a POV
There are more trend forecasters, futurists and TikTok oracles than ever. So why does our idea of the future still feel so devoid of nuance, inspiration and possibility?
Sublime • How to have a POV
They tell us about a future most of us aren’t prepared to face. What good is it if (random trend) is something to watch for in 2030, if we can’t visualize ourselves with enough natural resources to make it that far?
There is a denial that the future will arrive.
In the world of trend research, we are traditionally taught to be on the lookout for ‘weak signals’ - small, low-frequency indicators that hint at a potential shift in culture. And while scanning for these weak signals is a fundamental part of the process, it’s easy to get stuck in a pattern of only noticing evidence that confirms our preconceived... See more