Aware of hidden agendas, people no longer believe in the possibility of absolute truth or complete transparency from institutions, public figures, and individuals. Yet they are still drawn to honesty, integrity, and – at times – even vulnerability, which they expect from peers and brands alike.

In the wake of Elon Musk's Twitter takeover, hundreds of thousands of people are signing up for Mastadon, an alternative that's billionaire-free. As people become tired of legacy social media platforms, they're prioritising community-operated spaces that allow for co-creation and moderation.

What will be the impact of lateral communication? Is influencer culture dead as we know it? What does brand empathy mean to people? In this part of the 2023 Expert Outlook, we speak to three experts about how the search for control and connection is shaping the Communications sector.

As the pressure to self-improve mounts, so too does the need to let off steam. From impulse shopping to anger management – the data, debate and commentary point to an increasing need for emotional and physical release in modern society.

The New York Times' promotion of a beloved African dish has come under fire by Black Twitter’s dedicated foodies, with people stepping in to decry the meal. Despite showcasing diversity, the incident highlights the patronizing lens of recency through which global cultures are still often viewed.