Global Business Perspectives

Back in March, Time Magazine  discussed 10 ideas that are changing the world.  I wanted to take the opportunity to talk about these ideas here on my blog because I think they all can impact global business.

1.  Common Wealth - the 21st century will see the end of European and American dominance of global politics and economics.  Countries like China, Brazil and India are experiencing growth that is mind boggling and changing the face of their middle class.  The spread of economic wealth brings about an equalizing of the global playing field.  However, this also brings about concerns for global resources and the effects on the earth.

2.  The End of Customer Service - The trend to move towards the self serve call lines and kiosks makes us wonder if you will ever see a clerk again.  This shift of work to the consumer is being adopted by many industries like food, travel and hospitality.  Is this going to add more stress to our lives?

3.  The Post-Movie-Star Era - The past which was peppered with big name movie stars is switching over to a who is that actor trend.  Big names are just not bringing in the audiences they used to. 

4. Reverse Radicalism - Instead of hunting terrorists to punish them for their crimes - find the ones who have left these groups and ask them why they did.  This conversation could help reveal how to deal with the people who have joined these organizations.

5.  Kitchen Chemistry - Cooking is converting from an art to a science.  With technology advancements and fancy new gadgetry the science of cooking will be revolutionized. 

6. Geoengineering - We have changed the weather and now we may have the knowledge to fix it or at least make a difference.  Who knew that spreading sulfur particles in the air could reduce carbon emissions.

7. Synthetic Authenticity - With reality TV, Facebook, and Second Life - what is real now-a-days is questionable.  Is authentic only when you admit to how fake you are?

8.  The New Austerity - I know that the only thing my parents wanted for me was to have a better life then them and my generation tends to overspend on houses, cars and on credit cards to meet the expectations set by society.  Is it possible to live within our means?  With the downturn of the economy - dare I say, recession, people are cutting back and living on less. 

9.  Mandatory Health - Employers are having a serious voice in how healthy we are with challenging our habits of smoking, drinking, eating and exercising.  The costs of health care are astronomical and bosses are now legally able to mandate certain behaviors and how that effects our pocketbooks.

10. Re-Judaizing Jesus - By having Christians understanding Jesus as a Jew in a more encompassing perspective - his story is being revealed to both Christians and Jews.

What do you think of these ideas?  Are there any that you think were missed?