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Methodology -

The Pew Research Center noted that the survey results, based on a limited group of experts, cannot be generalized. The experts shared insights into the main changes brought by the global crisis and offered their visions of a post-pandemic world in 2025.

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Methodology -

It's important to note that the survey responses were collected in the summer of 2020, before the US presidential election and the approval of COVID-19 vaccines.

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Sentiment -

As these experts examined the world in mid-2020, they used terms like "inflection point," "punctuated equilibrium," and "exponential process" to describe the dramatic shifts they foresaw. They discussed how these changes could fundamentally alter aspects of human life, such as physical interactions and perceptions of trust and truth.

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Better or worse -

When asked to imagine the "new normal" in 2025, shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, nearly half (47%) of the experts believed life would be worse for most people, while 39% were optimistic about a better future.

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Digital impact -

Of the 86% who anticipated pandemic-induced changes, most believed that the ongoing evolution of digital life would bring both benefits and drawbacks.

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Emerging changes -

As the global pandemic unfolded, experts anticipated that by 2025, people would heavily rely on rapidly evolving digital tools, with both positive and negative consequences. The report delved into the potential impacts of digital life on work, habits, social issues, and even politics.

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Tele-everything - With the widespread adoption of remote processes, such as remote work, telemedicine, and online education, experts predicted that in 2025, more people would work from home, engage in virtual social and entertainment activities, and spend less time in public spaces compared to recent years.

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Tele-everything -

While hybrid work models and remote work options are still relatively common, many global companies surprised experts by mandating full-time office returns in 2024.

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Technology and society -

Surveyed experts predicted a growing divide between the privileged and the underprivileged, driven by technological progress. Concerns centered on the rising power of tech companies and the double-edged nature of their products: while they expand access to information, they also pose risks to civil liberties by collecting vast amounts of personal data.

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Reliance on digital tools -

Experts predicted that the pandemic would accelerate the adoption of smart gadgets, apps, and systems as consumers sought new ways to live and work. This would lead to the rapid adoption of new education and learning platforms, alter work patterns and workplaces, transform family life, and disrupt living arrangements and community structures.

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Reliance on digital tools -

The post-pandemic digitalization did significantly impact living arrangements and community structures, but perhaps not to the extent predicted. This was particularly evident in cities experiencing an influx of digital nomads who, with their remote, high-paying jobs, were able to outbid local residents for housing, leading to housing crises and soaring prices.

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Mental health -

Not surprisingly, experts expressed concern over the potential negative impact on mental health. They expected the widespread shift to remote work, learning, and social interactions would reduce in-person contact and weaken real-world support systems and social connections.

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Mental health -

While many felt overwhelmed by social interactions post-lockdown, the pandemic blurred the lines between home and work, underscoring the importance of 'third places' for social connection. People sought out in-person events and communities to combat loneliness.

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Concerns about life in 2025 -

As the global pandemic unfolded, experts feared that increasing social and racial inequality would exacerbate security and privacy issues. They also expressed concerns about environmental degradation, mental health challenges, and the further spread of misinformation.

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Inequality magnified -

Experts predicted that the pandemic and digital shift would widen inequality, increase unemployment, and marginalize vulnerable groups. The power imbalance between the privileged and disadvantaged would be exacerbated by large tech companies exploiting big data and biased algorithms. This would push more people into a precarious existence.

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Privacy and civil rights -

The pandemic and increased internet reliance raised concerns about heightened cyber threats. Experts worried that enhanced security measures could erode privacy and civil liberties, while authoritarian regimes might exploit the crisis and its aftermath to expand surveillance and suppress dissent.

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Job market -

Experts accurately predicted the rise of automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics. While they acknowledged some potential benefits, their responses highlighted the risks, such as job losses, lower wages, increased surveillance, and a shift toward gig work, as competing with cheap and efficient automation becomes increasingly difficult.

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Misinformation - Experts expressed concern over the potential for digital propaganda to become rampant, leading to increased societal division and the undermining of rational decision-making. Additionally, they worried the spread of misinformation through social media and other digital platforms could further destabilize social, political, and economic systems.

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Environment -

While some experts were optimistic about the reduced emissions and ecosystem regeneration during the pandemic, others predicted accelerated climate change and a surge in climate refugees due to soil degradation, crop failures, and extreme weather events.

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Environment -

With 2024 set to be the first calendar year to breach the critical 1.5°C (2.7°F) global warming threshold, coupled with the increasing frequency of severe natural disasters, it seems this prediction is unfortunately becoming a reality.

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Mental health -

Experts expressed concern that disparities in access to technology could exacerbate existing inequalities. Not only would less privileged populations face challenges in accessing devices and training for new technologies like AI, but there were also worries that people might turn to technology for human connection instead of real-world interactions.

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Mental health -

This prediction seems to be spot on. In recent years, there has been a surge in people forming emotional connections with AI companions, even developing romantic relationships. Additionally, more and more people are turning to chatbots for mental health support, with nearly a third of Americans considering AI-based therapy.

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Hopes about life in 2025 -

Experts believed the pandemic presented an opportunity to rethink fundamental systems like capitalism, education, healthcare, and work. Advancements in AI, data analytics, and virtual reality could make these systems safer, more humane, and more productive. Improved communication could significantly enhance crisis response and foster stronger communities.

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Social justice -

They hoped that the post-pandemic era would witness a renewed surge in social justice and economic equality movements, leading to more responsive governments and sociopolitical systems that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. This would involve addressing the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to technology.

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People over profit -

While perhaps overly optimistic, some experts believed businesses would prioritize social good over traditional market capitalism. This could lead to policies supporting universal healthcare, basic income, and affordable broadband. They also anticipated a reckoning for tech companies and their leaders.

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Quality of life -

As experts expected almost a complete shift to remote work, they also predicted a reduction in urban air pollution, overcrowding, and traffic congestion. Their optimistic outlook envisioned a post-pandemic world in 2025 with improved quality of life, better family life, increased accommodations for people with disabilities, and inspiration for further advancements.

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Tech for good -

While raising concerns about job market disruptions, experts also expressed hope that AI, virtual reality, augmented reality, machine learning, and natural language processing would make virtual spaces feel more real, authentic, and effective.

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Tech for good -

While concerns about the potential misuse of AI—such as creating highly realistic deepfakes or job displacement—are legitimate, the benefits are undeniable. Scientists and doctors are utilizing AI to identify diseases, perform precise surgeries, and even map brain structures to aid in mental health treatment.

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Smarter systems -

Experts predicted that local, state, and independent services, especially in healthcare, would modernize to better handle future crises, including rapid response and effective public information. They also anticipated the development of comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, leading to personalized treatments.

Source: (Pew Research Center) (YouGov Business)

See also: How to adapt to AI advancements in the workplace

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