Stefan Kelly is a Senior Behavioural Analyst at Canvas8. Stefan has a background in behavioural science and psychology, and has spent most of his career researching how people form beliefs and make decisions. Now he spends most of his time trying to understand the interactions between identity, uncertainty and culture. After work, he's likely reading old psychiatry blogs, scouring 2nd hand clothing apps, or failing to get Arsenal tickets.

The past decade has seen political polarisation – accelerated by social media’s filter bubbles and echo chambers – deepen and mutate. An ominous era of a polycrisis has shattered any remaining societal consensus. Meanwhile, powerful anti-establishment voices have stepped into the void.

Polarised Populations

As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

Shared Values

United States

Citizenship

Toys and hobbies

Cards Against Humanity has launched a provocative campaign that offers to pay non-voters to cast their ballot in 2024 and mock Trump. This reflects brands' increasing involvement in social issues, responding to younger voters' desire for authenticity while potentially deepening political divides.