Monthly Archives: April 2010

Looking into Other Worlds

By Simone | Published: April 13, 2010

Sometimes it is refreshing to step into a world completely different from one’s own. I did so yesterday, and the world pertained to the Japanese sex trade! I know it might be an off-color subject, but it is also rather fascinating. Should you also like to step into another world for a bit, I’ll share some of my findings and reference links below.

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Trend Spotting Company Profile: CScout

By Simone | Published: April 12, 2010

CScout is a global consumer trends consulting firm based in New York and Tokyo. CScout utilizes an extensive network of trend scouts in innovative cities all around the world to keep updated on marketing, lifestyle, and consumer technology trends, and offers a mixture of online content and customized service. In addition, CScout collaborates with trend consulting partners Cherryflava and Mandalah. CScout’s previous clients include Vodafone, BMW, Lufthansa, Audi, Gizmodo, Wrigley, and Siemens.

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Object Lesson: Induction Cooktops

By Simone | Published: April 11, 2010

Induction cooktops are curious creatures- they are hardly common in the States, but these slick little devices may someday be in kitchens everywhere. What differentiates this cooking surface from its traditional counterparts is its smooth surface and ability to heat a pan directly, which offers greater energy efficiency and temperature control (as well as no-fuss cleanup).

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Modern Metaphors – offering a limited but GOOD view

By Simone | Published: April 8, 2010

We take our current viewpoints and paradigms for granted. As I am learning Jeremy Rifkin’s Empathic Civilization, our language, society, and even sense of self is by no means given- nor is the way we look at the world. In fact, the means by which we reconcile with and explain the world evolves along with our society and technology.

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Trend Spotting Book Review: Generations

By Simone | Published: April 7, 2010

There are only so many books in the world capable of revolutionizing the way one views people and trends. Generations is one of these rare treasures. This 538-page tome co-authored by William Strauss and Neil Howe, lays the foundation of a fascinating theory about generational, social, and political patterns and trends in the United States.

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Short Films and Modern Life: Part II

By Simone | Published: April 5, 2010

I love apocalyptic themes- they can reveal so much about contemporary values. Forever’s Not So Long, a short film written and directed by Shawn Morrison, explores the concept with delightful eloquence.

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Wine Goes Green: Kegging, Pouches, and Packs!

By Simone | Published: April 3, 2010

While in the Bay Area this week, I came across an interesting article in the San Francisco Chronicle about a new bar and restaurant trend: serving wine on tap.

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The Consequences of Modernity: A Conversation With Sean Miller

By Simone | Published: April 1, 2010

Sean Miller is the Director of Education at Earth Day Network. With a BA in Psychology and Philosophy, Master’s Degrees in International Peace and Conflict Resolution and Education, and experience with not only environmental activism, but also teaching and curriculum development, Sean has a lot of interesting things to say about modern life.

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