It’s the New Black
So you think that you can spot an upcoming trend, eh? Guess again.
CSULB Anthropology Associate Professor Carl Lipo, in addition to faculty from Durham University, England, Western Carolina University, and Indiana University, have concluded that popular trends such as music, fashion, and even names are nothing more than random acts of copying.
Thatís right; all of you trend-sters are just big copycats.
Well, it was actually noted in the study that there are a few trends that are created from true visionaries, but the majority of trends are pure imitation. This study contradicts the classic economic models which say people make rational and conscious choices about what they wear, the music they listen to, even what they name their child. No offense to owners of Chihuahuas, but I did notice a lot more people showing off their pocket sized pooches after that silly series of Taco Bell commercials. I’ll say to that, ìYo no quiero mas Taco Bell.î
Now that the classic model has been thrown out the window, we need to be more aware of the aspects of our life that others may copy from each of us. This brings a new meaning to positive role models and our civilizationís need for them. If more people strive to be positive role models, then there will be more positive traits for others to copy, and in turn, there will be more positive trends. Along that same idea, designers must consider the consequences when presenting new products, fashions, and designs. That graphic billboard you just designed with the intention of shock and awe might have a more profound effect than you expected. So be careful the next time you flip the on news and see a segment on Paris Hilton because you might be supporting a trend that none of us wants to see.
Listen to Gandhi, ìBe the change that you want to see in the world.î -DH