Josephine Green works in industry. She is Senior Director of Trends and Strategy at Philips Design and she is making a great case for how the day of the hierarchy is over.
According to Green, we need to find new ways to be and act in the world if we are to prosper and flourish in the future. Because of the diffusion of new technologies, ordinary people can now not only consume but also create.
In the past, the structure of the world was hierarchical – basically shaped like a Pyramid – where power, ideas, innovations etc were at the top and the inventions and ‘products’ of one kind or another, emerged at the end.
Now, though it’s messier it is also more democratic, as people are increasingly creating their own music, film, books, social networks etc. She says that this change is mirrored in the world as people begin to see that they have the power to decide how they want to live their lives. Which Josephine Green describes as a Pancake model of life.
As we all thinking and talk about the effects of phenomena like social media on modern life, Josephine Green’s ideas offer an interesting perspective on how we might not only adapt to the change all around us but also actually channel this change – as we cease to be merely passive consumers – to create healthier, happier and more just societies.
Have a look –
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Kudos to Josephine. The pancake model is certainly worthy of serious consideration and certain applications. However, the hydrangea bloom model seems to provide more promise, wherein many layers, many shapes and sizes, of good results(the beautiful petals and the perfume and the bee-pollen) result from all being centered in, and tethered, to the life-giving stems, of which there are many. “Fairness” is never simple but is always desirable and beautiful, as it refreshes our very souls! But, by all means, let us go forward with pancake stacks, instead of a pyramid! Pass the maple syrup!
Such a beautiful addition – I think Josephine might like your attractive and completely accurate addition of petals! Thanks so much.
Interesting talk. I’ll give http://www.pyramidstopancakes a peak!
I had a quick look myself and it seems interesting – especially with the addition of layers/petals as per granbee’s comment below.