Thanks guy for keeping up with the review of weird, fun or scary links I found =)
This year, I went through 1100++ articles published in 2025, looking for patterns. Not the obvious headlines everyone’s already talking about, but the weak signals and small shifts happening now that will become the big stories of the next decade.
If you are here, you know my substack but you might not know my pepiniere of changes. There is maybe 3000 of the links I’ve shared parsed through an (automated) futurist lense.
What I found (did not) surprised me. We’re experiencing all of technological, social and environmental change at once, and these changes are feeding into each other in ways that make the future harder to predict but easier to feel coming.
I’ve organized my findings into ten major trends. Some will confirm what you’re already sensing. Others might challenge how you’re thinking about the future. A few might change how you make decisions in the months ahead.
Of course futures isn’t about predicting the future, so let’s have a peek at the forces shaping it so we can make better choices now.
Cheers!
As 2025 ends, one thing is clear: we’re living through big changes. There the analysis of our articles across twelve trend categories. What we found: technology, society, environment, and human values are all changing at the same time. These changes will shape the next decade.
The technology story of 2025 is about AI, but not in the way many people predicted. Across 485 articles on AI and robotics, we found a shift: AI is changing how we think, create, and solve problems.
We’re seeing what we call “Glow AI” versus “Slop AI.” While bad AI content floods the internet, another movement is producing work that helps human creativity instead of replacing it. The lesson? The future belongs to people who can think with AI, not people who let AI do their thinking.
The problem: We depend on AI systems more and more. This creates risks in healthcare, security, and other sectors. The question isn’t whether to use AI, but how to keep human skills alive while using its power.
The 270 articles on consumer behavior show a big shift: consumers want different relationships with brands and products. Simple buying and selling is giving way to connections based on wellness, authenticity, and personal values.
Changes in packaging, wellness expectations, and trust issues (especially around pricing) mean businesses have about ten years to rethink their customer relationships—or die. The rise of experience-focused shopping means that what you sell matters less than how you make people feel.
Watch for: Products are becoming more customized based on different lifestyles. This means one-size-fits-all solutions won’t work much longer.
2025 has seen a return to old gathering spaces and practices. Cultural discussion groups are coming back, archaeologists are finding ancient cities with new tech, and scientists are even learning to decode animal communication. All of this shows people want deeper connections—to the past, to other species, to each other.
This goes against the idea that digital tech destroys culture. Instead, communities use technology to make real cultural experiences better, not replace them. The challenge: keeping cultural heritage alive while adapting to tech changes.
The 136 articles on politics show a volatile mix: the rise of the “credentialed precariat”—educated workers with debt but no job security—is fueling populist movements around the world. Young voters are supporting candidates who promise to fix affordability and opportunity, not traditional party platforms.
Meanwhile, new weapons tech, AI-powered cybercrime, and gig worker movements suggest the next decade will reshape both security and labor markets. As society becomes more militarized and people trust institutions less, we get a feedback loop that needs fixing now.
The environmental trends we tracked across 181 articles show we’ve moved past awareness into crisis mode. The Arctic has switched from storing carbon to releasing it, urban farming is speeding up out of necessity, and water scarcity is affecting billions now, not later.
What’s new in 2025: anger over energy prices is creating political pressure, while funding cuts to agencies like NOAA threaten our ability to even track environmental changes. The gap between what we know we should do and what we’re actually doing keeps growing.
Opportunity: Geothermal energy shows more potential than we thought, suggesting good options exist—if we can find the political will to use them.
Our analysis of 286 articles on data privacy shows a tension: the same AI systems changing research, healthcare, and knowledge are creating new privacy risks. The shift from static databases to AI-powered systems promises breakthroughs—but at what cost to privacy?
Concerns about neurotechnology, where companies could access and profit from your brain patterns, have moved from science fiction to policy priority. Patients are demanding transparency about how their data shapes predictions and treatments.
Key development: Calls for transparency in AI development are getting louder, but can regulation keep up with innovation?
The 301 articles on workforce dynamics show big disruption. Pop-up retail, luxury markets in new places, and kids growing up on screens instead of playing outside all point to a workforce that will work under different rules than previous generations.
Fewer foreign doctors want to work in the U.S., parents are using AI for help, and kids’ screen-heavy childhoods suggest we’re raising a generation with different skills, expectations, and problems than their parents.
The challenge: Job loss from automation isn’t in the future—it’s happening now. Can we create good work and economic security in an AI-powered economy?
The 131 articles on health trends show a shift from treating sickness to preventing it, driven by personalized risk tech and health-conscious consumers. The food industry is moving toward resilience and sustainability, while regenerative farming goes mainstream.
But there’s a dark side: kids and teens making friends mainly with AI chatbots raises questions about social development and mental health. The healthcare system faces problems even as technology promises solutions.
Pattern: Health-conscious buying is becoming normal, driving transparency and creating opportunities for brands that deliver real wellness.
The 92 articles on community engagement show a paradox: while digital tech threatens real connection, it’s also enabling new forms of community strength. Brand events that honor local culture, mental health zines, and DIY publishing to fight censorship all show human adaptability.
Growing support for human rights and the rise of art as activism suggest that community bonds are changing rather than disappearing—but they need work in ways previous generations didn’t have to think about.
Our analysis of 139 articles on digital culture shows information decentralization cutting both ways: people can publish and share like never before, but this also enables misinformation at scale. The crisis in journalism as resources dry up threatens our ability to verify information just when we need it most.
Fashion activism, social media’s influence on trends, and growing competition in AI markets all suggest digital culture is breaking into countless micro-communities—each with its own truth, values, and reality.
Watch for: Trust in digital content will likely keep falling, creating opportunities for verified, trustworthy information sources.
Across 217 articles on ethics and technology, one theme dominates: we’re using game-changing technologies faster than we can develop rules to govern them. From young creators using AI to make content, to politicians using AI-written speeches, to lawmakers trying to protect brain data privacy—we’re in new territory.
Consumer brain tech, AI-written political speeches, and technology’s integration into government all demand ethical frameworks we haven’t built yet.
The must-do: Developing AI literacy, creating clear ethical rules, and keeping public trust in technology aren’t optional—they’re survival requirements for the next decade.
Finally, our review of 140 articles on education shows a system in transition. AI research assistants are evolving from simple tools to personalized learning partners, but this raises questions about preserving human skills, critical thinking, and creativity.
Recognition of unconventional thinkers, demand for interdisciplinary education, and the need to separate AI-suited tasks from human-skill tasks all point to an education system that needs complete reimagining for an AI world.
The weak signals we found in 2025 won’t stay weak for long. The next decade will see these trends speed up, crash into each other, and combine in ways we can only partly predict. But certain choices are becoming clear:
We must balance AI capability with human agency. The goal isn’t to replace human thinking but to enhance it—keeping the thinking skills and creativity that make us irreplaceable.
We must rebuild trust through transparency. Whether in shopping, politics, or technology, trust is the currency of the next decade.
We must act on environmental problems. The window for small changes is closing; big action is now the only option.
We must preserve what makes us human. Community, culture, creativity, critical thinking—these aren’t luxuries but necessities in an AI world.
We must democratize opportunity. The growing gaps—in access to technology, economic security, healthcare, and education—threaten social stability and need fixing now.
The trends of 2025 show a world at a crossroads. The technologies, behaviors, and systems emerging today will shape the next decade. The question isn’t whether change is coming—it’s already here. The question is whether we’ll shape it on purpose or just react to it.
The next ten years will show our answer.
There were 485 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reconfiguration of Cognitive Architecture | AI’s role in reshaping our cognitive processes and societal functions | Shifting from traditional cognition patterns to new modes influenced by AI technologies | Cognitive processes may evolve, potentially enhancing creativity and problem-solving capabilities | The need for efficiency and innovation in various fields leads to reliance on AI |
| The Need for Continued Thinking | Emphasis on combining human thought with AI to explore and innovate | From reliance on AI alone to an integrated approach of thinking with and against AI | In ten years, critical thinking with AI may lead to groundbreaking innovations across fields | The realization of human creativity as a complement to AI efficacy |
| Glow AI vs. Slop AI | The emergence of quality content (‘glow AI’) amidst a landscape of low-quality outputs | Moving from a predominance of low-quality mechanical content to more thoughtful expressions | Quality content facilitated by AI may redefine creative standards and audience expectations | An increasing demand for originality and depth in content generation |
| AI-Generated Content | The rise of AI-generated content surpasses human production, challenging existing perceptions | Transition from human-produced content to AI-generated content, altering representation | AI-generated content may redefine our understanding of truth, leading to new forms of storytelling | The efficiency and creativity provided by AI in content generation |
| Underestimated potential of blind geothermal | Research suggests much higher potential for blind geothermal resources than previously thought | Changing from a 30 GW potential estimate to a potential of 100s of GW based on new findings | Policies and investments may shift drastically to tap into the much larger unutilized potential | The growing demand for renewable energy sources drives new geothermal research |
There were 270 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redefining Consumer Lives | Consumers are reshaping their identities and connections with brands | From traditional consumer-brand relationships to deeper, more personal connections | In 10 years, brands may prioritize emotional connections over product functionality | Shifts in consumer behavior driven by changing values and expectations |
| Wellness-driven Consumer Expectations | Shift towards wellness and authenticity among consumers | From superficial consumerism to seeking authentic, wellness-oriented experiences | The market may see a significant rise in products prioritizing mental and physical well-being | Growing consumer awareness of health impacts from products and lifestyles |
| Long-term Packaging Innovations | Focus on sustainable and innovative packaging solutions for the future | From short-term fixes to long-term sustainable packaging strategies | Packaging may evolve significantly towards 100% recyclable and biodegradability solutions | Environmental awareness and regulatory pressures for sustainable practices |
| Customer Trust Erosion | Widespread overcharging leads to a decline in customer trust in dollar stores | Customers may lose faith in dollar stores’ claims of low prices due to frequent overcharges | Alternative retailers may gain popularity as consumers seek stores they can trust | Distrust in pricing accuracy and transparency among consumers |
| Impact of Changing Lifestyles on Household | Shifts in consumer lifestyles impact household care relationships | From generic household products to tailored solutions for diverse lifestyles | Household care products may become more customized to fit individual consumer lifestyles | Consumer preferences for personalized solutions in home care |
There were 82 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural Resurgence of Tertulia | A revival of tertulias as social and cultural gatherings is emerging | Shift from formal literary gatherings to informal, community-focused cultural events | In ten years, tertulias may evolve into more diverse formats combining art, politics, and technology | The growing need for community engagement and representation in cultural discourse |
| Rediscovery of Ancient Urban Centers | Archaeologists uncovering large ancient cities previously hidden beneath grasslands | Shift from viewing the steppe as empty to recognizing it as home to significant settlements | In 10 years, more ancient cities may be identified, reshaping historical understanding of Eurasia | Technological advancements in archaeology lead to new discoveries |
| Use of Technology in Archaeology | Drones and ground-penetrating radar are increasingly used in archaeological research | Transition from traditional excavation methods to high-tech, non-invasive surveying | In a decade, technology will enable even deeper exploration and broader mapping of archaeological sites | The demand for efficient, non-invasive exploration techniques |
| Decoding Animal Communication | Using machine learning to translate sperm whale communication into human language | Shifting from misunderstanding to understanding animal communication on a deeper level | Cross-species communication could lead to better conservation strategies and policies | Advancements in technology facilitate new ways to understand animal communications |
| Cultural Rebirth through Historical | Documentaries exploring historical narratives increase public interest in local hist | Shift from marginalization to spotlighting local stories and significance through media | A potentially growing genre of documentaries focused on local histories and folklore | A resurgence of interest in authentic storytelling platforms |
There were 136 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emergence of Directed Energy | The UK is developing advanced Directed Energy Weapons, starting with the DragonFire laser | Transition from traditional weapons systems to advanced directed energy systems | Directed energy weapons may become the primary defense technology in military operations | Military advancement in technology influencing modern warfare strategies |
| Rise of Credentialed Precariat | An increasing number of degree holders facing economic instability and debt | Shift from a stable career promise post-graduation to significant economic precarity | The credentialed precariat may influence new political movements aiming for economic reform | Economic conditions undermining traditional promises of career stability |
| Youth Political Shift | Younger voters increasingly supporting populist candidates over traditional party candidates | Transition from voting for mainstream candidates to supporting outsiders who represent their interests | Future elections may be dominated by candidates prioritizing youth and affordability issues | Discontent with existing political options leading youth towards populism |
| AI-Driven Cybercrime | Adversaries using AI to automate cyberattacks and enhance threat capabilities | From traditional cybercrime methods to AI-automated strategies for efficiency | Cybercrime evolves into highly automated operations, challenging security measures globally | Advancements in AI technologies facilitating new forms of crime |
| Rise of Gig Worker Solidarity | Workers from different sectors are uniting for common goals and better conditions | Move from isolated gig workers to a more organized and collective workforce fighting for rights | In the next decade, worker solidarity could reshape labor laws and gig economy practices | Shared challenges facing gig workers fostering a sense of community |
There were 181 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Climate Impact on Arctic Ecosystems | Arctic ecosystems, previously carbon sinks, are now releasing CO2 instead | Transition from carbon storage in the Arctic to significant CO2 emissions | In 10 years, the Arctic may significantly contribute to global CO2 levels | Climate change is altering the functionality of Arctic ecosystems |
| Urban Agriculture Experimentation | Oosterwold serves as a living experiment in urban agriculture, promoting self-sufficiency | Shift from conventional city planning to an innovative model prioritizing urban ag | In a decade, urban areas may integrate agriculture into planning, enhancing food production | Increasing urbanization coupled with food insecurity drives innovative practices |
| Water Scarcity Awareness | Growing awareness and concern over global water scarcity affecting billions by 2025 | Shifting focus from abundance of water resources to critical shortages in urban settings | In ten years, water management strategies will emphasize efficiency and alternative sources | Climate change and over-extraction forcing a reassessment of water management |
| Consumer Frustration with Energy Prices | Growing public anger in Sweden over soaring energy prices and disparities | Shift from passive acceptance of energy policies to active public discontent | In 10 years, public pressure may lead to proactive energy policies and consumer protections | Escalating energy prices fueled by geopolitical tensions raising concerns |
| Federal Funding Cuts to NOAA | Layoffs at NOAA indicate a shrinking workforce in vital weather prediction roles | Transition from a fully staffed NOAA to a leaner agency with fewer hurricane experts | Potentially diminished accuracy of weather forecasts affecting public safety | Budget cuts and political ideologies influencing environmental agencies |
There were 286 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shift in Knowledge Units | Need for a new atomic unit of knowledge in the AI age | From traditional peer-reviewed articles to AI-generated knowledge systems | Dynamic, interactive knowledge frameworks may replace static peer-reviewed formats | The ongoing integration of AI in knowledge creation drives the need for systems |
| Dynamic Knowledge Bases | Interactive collections of knowledge in tech, such as Google’s research notebooks | From static articles to dynamic, evolving knowledge repositories | Knowledge bases may update continuously with research and data automatically | The rapid advancement of AI drives the need for real-time knowledge management |
| Ethical Concerns in Neurotechnology | Growing ethical issues concerning neural data privacy due to BCIs | Increasing concern over neural data access and usage by corporations | Stricter regulations will protect users’ neural data privacy and prevent misuse | Public advocacy for privacy and ethical standards in tech drives changes |
| Consumer Accountability in Healthcare | Patients becoming more critical regarding health predictions and treatment | From passive acceptance to actively questioning healthcare transparency | Informed patients could lead to better treatment negotiations and expectations | Rising awareness about patient rights inspires demand for transparency |
| Calls for Transparency in AI Development | Advocacy for clear disclosure about AI data sourcing and ethical practices | Transition from opaque to transparent development processes in AI | Increased demands for transparency may lead to more ethical AI practices | Awareness about AI’s data and ethical impacts fuels transparency demands |
There were 301 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pop-up Retail Experiences | Jacquemus launches a giant bag-shaped pop-up store in South Korea | Transitioning from traditional retail to immersive, themed pop-up experiences | Pop-up retail could dominate the market, offering unique experiences over conventional stores | The need for unique shopping experiences drives brands to create immersive |
| Luxury Market Growth in South Korea | Increased spending on luxury goods by South Korean consumers noted by Morgan Stanley | Shift towards a flourishing luxury market in South Korea | South Korea may become a leading market for luxury brands globally | Rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences drive spending |
| Integration of Art and Commerce | Jacquemus incorporates art concepts into retail spaces, like the Café Fleurs | From straightforward retail to culturally and artistically enriched environments | Retail spaces might transform into hubs for culture, art, and community engagement | Consumer desire for experiential and artistic shopping experiences |
| Shift in Childhood Experiences | Western children experience reduced physical mobility and increased digital engagement | From outdoor, independent play to screen-dominated, sheltered experiences | In 10 years, children may develop primarily in digital spaces, losing touch with nature | Digital technology’s growing prevalence in daily life impacts childhood |
| Growing Numbers of Immigration Phys | Foreign-born physicians show decreased interest in working in the U.S. due to policy | Shift from attracting international talent to a lack of appeal for foreign physicians | The U.S. healthcare system may face severe staffing shortages among immigrant physicians | Policy changes affecting immigration reduce attractiveness of practicing |
There were 131 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resilience in Food & Drink Industry | The food industry is focusing on resilience to weather future challenges | From reactive strategies to proactive, resilient approaches in operations | Food brands may prioritize sustainable sourcing and innovative solutions to enhance resilience | Consumer demand for sustainability and reliability in food sources |
| Personalized Risk Assessment Technology | Technological advancements allow for personalized risk assessments of treatments | Transition from generalized risk assessments to personalized and data-driven predictions | Increased integration of wearables and personal data could revolutionize proactive healthcare | Consumer demand for tailored healthcare solutions motivates change |
| AI As Simulated Friendships | Children and teens are increasingly forming friendships with AI chatbots | Changing from real-life friendships to reliance on AI for companionship | Children may prefer AI friendships over human interactions, impacting future social skills | Technological integration in daily lives influences social |
| Rise of health-conscious consumers | Consumers are increasingly aware of health impacts from food and products | Shift from ignorance about food safety to informed choices and health monitoring | Health-conscious purchasing will become the norm, driving product transparency | Awareness of health impacts on life quality is a key motivator |
| Regenerative farming becoming mainstream | Growing consumer interest in sustainably sourced and regenerative food products | Shift from industrial farming practices to emphasis on regenerative, local sourcing | A significant majority of food will be sourced from regenerative practices | Consumer demand for sustainable food options drives agriculture |
There were 92 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Culinary Marketing | Nike uses traditional Cantonese soup recipes to connect with local runners | From global marketing to hyper-local cultural integration in brand experiences | In ten years, brands may focus more on localized cultural practices rather than global trends | Increasing consumer preference for authentic and locally inspired brands |
| Engagement Through Authenticity | Nike’s intimate dining experience builds connections with the youth | From impersonal advertising to personal, experience-driven marketing strategies | In ten years, authentic and intimate brand experiences will dominate consumer interactions | The need for brands to foster genuine connections with their audiences |
| Increased Focus on Mental Health | Zines dedicated to mental health are proliferating | From stigmatized discussions of mental health to open dialogues | Widespread acceptance and integration of mental health discussions in various media forms | Rising awareness and de-stigmatization of mental health issues |
| Growing International Support for | International reactions show an increase in support for the Palestinian people’s rights | Shifts from limited recognition to broader support among global powers for sovereignty | Palestine may achieve wider recognition and stronger positions in international forums | Global advocacy efforts for human rights and sovereignty |
| Censorship and DIY Resource Sharing | Zines as a response to censorship and restricted access to information | Growing need for alternative information sources amidst digital censorship | Zines could play a vital role in disseminating crucial information in repressive environments | The increasing limitations on free expression and access to information |
There were 139 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Decentralization of Information | Individuals have more power to publish and share information online | Shift from traditional media gatekeepers to individual content creators | A landscape where personal voices and opinions significantly influence public discourse | Rising consciousness of misinformation spread through digital platforms |
| Growing Competition in AI Market | OpenAI faces increasing competition from major tech companies in AI | Evolution of a more competitive landscape in the generative AI sector | Diverse applications and innovations driven by competition will emerge | Demand for more sophisticated AI capabilities across various industries |
| Crisis of Journalism | Declining resources for investigative journalism undermining contextualization | Transitioning from funded investigative journalism to under-resourced media | Independent and investigative journalism may be severely diminished | Economic pressures and shifts in media consumption habits |
| Fashion activism | Use of fashion as a medium for environmental and cultural storytelling | Traditional fashion evolving into a tool for activism and cultural preservation | Fashion will increasingly reflect social movements and cultural identities | Heightened awareness of environmental and social issues among consumers |
| Social Media Influence on Trends | Platforms like TikTok are driving the resurgence of retro trends among Gen Z | Shift in how cultural trends are shaped from traditional media to social media dynamics | Social media will redefine cultural narratives and influence consumer behaviors | The engagement power of social media reshaping marketing and trend-setting |
There were 217 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerging Voices of Young Creators | Young authors use generative AI to create mature content | Shift from traditional experienced voices to youthful creators | In a decade, diverse genres shaped by young creators may dominate the market | The democratization of content creation tools for younger gen |
| Consumer Neurotech Market Growth | Consumer EEG devices tracking mental states becoming prevalent | Shift from medical-focused BCIs to mainstream consumer neurotech | Consumer neurotech will become mainstream, blending AI with wellness apps | The growing interest in personal wellness and mental health |
| Political adoption of AI linguistics | Politicians use AI-generated content in speeches and communication | Increasing reliance on AI tools for crafting political speeches | Political discourse may become homogenized through AI-generated language | The efficiency and persuasive power of AI-generated communication |
| Legislative Action on Neural Data | Emerging laws to protect neural data from misuse by companies | Movement from unregulated practices to comprehensive frameworks | Global standards may protect citizens’ mental data and rights | Concerns over privacy and ethical usage of personal data |
| Unprecedented Technological Integration | The intertwining of governmental functions with advanced technology | Transition from human oversight to AI-managed systems in governance | Government operations may heavily depend on AI for efficiency and decisions | The increasing complexity and necessity of technology in governance |
There were 140 articles reviewed.
| name | description | change | 10-year | driving-force |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI Research Assistant Evolution | AI tools like NotebookLM enhancing research and personal knowledge acquisition | From static resources to interactive and personalized AI-driven frameworks | AI will likely lead to highly personalized, efficient knowledge management systems | The increasing complexity and volume of accessible information drives AI assistance |
| Differentiation between Job and Gym Tasks | The need to clearly define and separate AI roles in work and personal growth tasks | Moving from dependence on AI for all outputs to a selective approach based on task nature | Professionals will regularly evaluate and categorize tasks as either AI-assisted or skill-building | The evolving nature of work and personal development highlights task clarity |
| Advocacy for Human Skills Preservation | A cultural shift toward valuing personal skill development alongside technological help | From a focus solely on efficiency to a balanced approach that values human effort | Society will prioritize balanced skill development that includes both technology use and personal effort | The realization that human skills are essential for job satisfaction and effectiveness |
| Recognition of Outliers in Academia | Increasing validation and support for unconventional thinkers and ideas | Transition from dismissing outliers to celebrating and leveraging their unique perspectives | Outlier academics will more frequently lead groundbreaking research and paradigm shifts | The need for diverse perspectives to enhance innovation and academic rigor |
| Growing Demand for Interdisciplinary Ed | Increased interest in blending diverse fields of study among academic outliers | Shift from traditional, siloed education to more holistic, interdisciplinary approaches | More academic programs will prioritize interdisciplinary studies, creating innovators | The complexity of modern challenges requires diverse skill sets for solutions |