In this 10Things issue, we consider the intersection of technology, culture, and societal shifts, showcasing how advancements like AI are transforming industries and human roles, while also raising challenges like ethical concerns and skill dependency. Cultural trends, from wellness extremism to niche aesthetics, reflect shifting values and collective identities. Meanwhile, art, mindfulness, and storytelling remain central in navigating these changes, fostering creativity and self-awareness amidst rapid transformation.
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Your Majesty
1. Wellness Culture Is Now Peddling Extremism
From trad wives to raw milk, social media’s wellness trends have been radicalized—and could cost us a more equitable future.
Over the upcoming decade, AI-provisioned intelligence will become almost free, and instantly available. AI won’t just assist professionals — it will take over much of the work as a packed instant service provider. Welcome to the age of boundless skill scalability, where services transform into software and economies grow beyond human imagination.
A lot has happened in the world of Large Language Models over the course of 2024. Here’s a review of things Simon figured out about the field in the past twelve months, plus his attempt at identifying key themes and pivotal moments.
The Pinterest trend report is always a fun read. Apparently up and coming trends for 2025 include fisherman aesthetic, castle-core, and (our personal fave) sea witchery plus many more.
8. Microsoft advances materials discovery with MatterGen
Microsoft has introduced MatterGen, an AI-driven platform designed to accelerate the discovery of new materials, potentially revolutionizing industries such as manufacturing and energy.
Showcasing how elements of mainstream media are influencing societal behavior and consumer goods, Trend Hunter’s pop culture category features everything from viral videos to film merchandise and political satire.
This year’s Best Actress Oscar race is particularly crowded. With only five slots open, many fine performances may be edged out. Among the other front-runners are stars playing women struggling with sexuality, aging, life and death itself.
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