Post-election predictions

Adrian Ghenie, Untitled (2019) at Palazzo Cini, 2020

Given the results of the US election, the World prepares for a change of guards and a new paradigm. Here are my top areas where change could have accentuated impact:

1. Tech-Nationalism Surge

• Dystopic Angle: Increased national control over tech could drive surveillance, censorship, and data control, potentially impacting online privacy and international collaboration.

• Utopic Angle: Tech nationalism could encourage domestic innovation and create self-sufficient tech ecosystems, reducing dependency on foreign tech giants.

2. Renewed Focus on Energy Independence

• Dystopic Angle: A shift toward fossil fuels and deregulation might sideline renewable energy efforts, potentially accelerating climate change and creating more severe environmental impacts.

• Utopic Angle: Investments in local energy sources and possibly even new types of cleaner fossil fuel tech could boost energy security and reduce reliance on foreign resources.

3. Increased Border and Immigration Control Technologies

• Dystopic Angle: Technologies like facial recognition and biometric tracking at borders could lead to a surveillance state, eroding personal freedoms and creating isolated economies.

• Utopic Angle: Stricter, technologically enhanced borders could lead to safer and more controlled immigration processes, allowing for better management of resources and labor.

4. Cultural Renaissance of "American-Made"

• Dystopic Angle: Nationalism-driven production could widen global tensions, create tariffs, and limit consumer choices as countries prioritize local goods over international trade.

• Utopic Angle: A cultural movement toward "American-made" could spur local craftsmanship and community pride, leading to sustainable and high-quality local industries.

5. Potential Tech Backlash and Regulation

• Dystopic Angle: Tight regulations on digital speech and content might result in censorship, stifling free speech and innovation in tech.

• Utopic Angle: Thoughtful regulations could curb tech monopolies, foster healthier digital communities, and protect consumer rights and privacy.