If there’s one thing this year has demonstrated, it’s that we possess a basic, undeniable need to connect to one another and to gather. With all the options technology has provided for us to meet that need, many of us are feeling more isolated and alone than ever. How can we design activities and establish new rituals that reaffirm our humanity at a time when gathering puts us at risk? I’ve taken inspiration from thinkers young and old to ignite my imagination.
Is Cancel Culture Canceling Opportunities?
Technology has facilitated a problematic new reality, where artificial intelligence creates bubbles in which we receive algorithmically curated content. We think we’re in charge, choosing to “like” or follow people and companies, but there is so much more that doesn’t meet the eye! One painful result is that when that bubble is burst by opposing opinions we reflexively dismiss them. If we hope to regain a real sense of connection as a society, we must step on the breaks and assess challenging ideas and voices before “swiping left.”