New Year's Forecast

So along with Pat Robertson, we’re going to try to make some predictions for the year. I don’t think I’ll make any tsunami predictions caused by homosexuality, but let’s see what I can come up with now. I think the political world will be much more interesting than what we’re used to seeing. With politicians getting more publicity due to the news, news spoofs (a la John Stewart and Steven Colbert), the internet, and general interest, politics will move a little more to the forefront. I think that’s good, the public was meant to be involved in the political system (despite what some politicians may believe). Debate over beliefs, ideals and who is to represent us will become more heated, interesting and prevalent.

I think consumerism and commerce will be interesting to watch. People are voting with their dollars and that’s causing some disruption in our society. Things that are innately democratic are becoming very popular. Things such as Google, YouTube, MySpace, Flickr, and blogs in general are allowing people to view, read, buy and discuss things that they are interested in as opposed to watching what marketers are putting in front of the collective public eye. I think people as groups will grow more into niches and pockets based on specific interests and beliefs as opposed to everything becoming more homogenized. Technology is actually allowing people to get into groups more specific as opposed to getting everyone together into larger, more general groups. Social disruption based on technology and innovation is becoming almost commonplace. The trend will continue as people flock to things, areas, products that more completely align with their interests, hobbies, and beliefs. What do you think will happen in the new year? Are you willing to put it out there for debate? C’mon, don’t be a chicken, chickens can’t swim in tsunamis anyways.