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Suspicious Optimism?
Suspicious Optimism?
What's that? In its "Future Consumer 2027: Emotions" report, WGSN identifies six key emotions that it says will shape consumer behaviour in 2027, including:
"Suspicious Optimism: As people grow apprehensive about the role of technology and AI, they will be tempering optimism with suspicion."
"Amid seismic technological change, Suspicious Optimism will be a default emotional state for many in 2027."
What do you think of that?
In the report, WGSN says, "WGSN has been tracking optimism for years, including Tragic Optimism for 2024 (the search for meaning amid complex challenges) and Rational Optimism for 2026 (the idea that it makes more sense to be optimistic than pessimistic in a world that’s constantly changing). In 2027 many people will be tempering their optimism for the future with scepticism and suspicion, particularly regarding the role of technology, as we grapple with both the positive and negative impacts of AI, as well as continuing threats of divisions and distortions online."
"The state of Suspicious Optimism will be driven by three key emotions: awe at the potential of new innovations; fear of unintended consequences; and disillusionment from past disappointments and expectations. As 2027 approaches, consumers will navigate complex relationships with technology, oscillating between fascination and apprehension. These drivers will propel us toward aspirational states of wisdom, balance and trust in our technological interactions."
The authors ask a good question: "Technology is transforming our world at warp speed. How can you build trust and inspire optimism in its potential to create a better future for all?"
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