2009?

So 2009 looks like the most uncertain many of us can remember - but  anyone old enough to recall the UK recession of the 80's or the three day week would probably ask you to get some sort of grip.

There's a lot of predictions at this time of year, I bet there will be an even more febrile statings of the obvious than usual this year.

Already, lots of trend predictions point to a return to simple, the rediscovery of simple pleasures, slowing things down and relying on buying things to amuse ourselves a little less.

Don't be so sure though, the relentless infantilising of western culture - instant gratification, celebrity worship and generally having whatever you want may well mean that people don't adjust and enjoy a 'Dunkirk Spirit'-  they'll stamp their feet and complain how unfair it all is. What do you think?

Iceland knows what it's doing with these Christmas ads. Such a reflection of where we've been and maybe where we'll be going - more is better, no need to deny yourself, don't worry about where it's come from or what's in it, just have more. They totally understand their time pressed, budget stressed customer, for whom feeding the family is top priority, and full plates mean you're doing right by your kids, but when the UK is struck with generation of fat kids who will die before their parents, for whom exercise is playing on the Wii, is this really moral? Who will be brave enough to influence culture rather than follow?

Comments

[Rob Mortimer]

Interesting. As much as I can't stand that ad I do admire the fact that Iceland feels like it knows it audience and how to reach them perfectly.

[din]

i have 900 votes so far, and need just 100 more for my design
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[The Grocer]

Morals in our business culture? Few and far between in my opinion.
There is a whole section of society that is going to find it hard to give up what they have always had and will selfishly stop at nothing to get it back. More debt, more crime.

[Rob @ Cynic]

Seems you're right as usual Mr NP ... though that also means I'm right as a byproduct, ha!

http://robcampbell.wordpress.com/2008/12/30/q-was-mick-hucknell-right-when-he-sang-moneys-too-tight-to-mention-a-no/