Social trends after WW2 and what we can potentially expect after months of self-isolation
> “U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the world faces the most challenging crisis since World War II, confronting a pandemic threatening people in every country, one that will bring a recession that probably has no parallel in the recent past.”
As we enter day 47 of self-isolation, many of us are beginning to wonder when these restrictions will be loosened and what life will look like exactly after COVID – 19. Since WW2 nothing has rocked our daily lives globally as much as this pandemic. For most of us, we weren’t alive at that time so we can’t even rely on history to provide us with insight and perspective. But if history can teach us anything it is that “this too shall pass” and that we can look to the future with hope. The end of the war brought upon drastic changes but most of the new lifestyles and social trends from that time were overwhelmingly positive. More jobs and better wages meant a more stable economy and since the population left on the Homefront during the war had very little to spend their money on, there was an upswell in spending and a new middle class emerged after the war ended.
But what exactly will this mean for us, what will our local pub look like in this new norm? Or a romantic dinner for two? Certainly, we will see changes, greater vigilance in cleaning and hygiene, maybe larger spaces in between tables and chairs, or even limited bar seating. However, the common theme throughout isolation has been that of feeling deprived of human connection. Our most basic need, even ahead of food and water is that of human touch and human connection. Everyone is missing each other, missing their families, friends, and loved ones. And with all of that collective energy being suppressed right now, despite the restrictions and modifications restaurants and bars will have to make, the end of isolation will likely result in an outpouring of desire to share moments and memories again with each other.
After WW2 socializing, dinner parties, and after-work drinks became very popular. Restaurants and bars popped up on every corner and even old antiquated social norms that may have relegated women to stay home pre-war time were somewhat dismissed. Socializing was done in droves, regardless of gender. Enjoying each other’s company and time spent together is extremely important. After all, that is what the war had been fought for.
Human beings are drawn to one another and will always be drawn to gather, share, talk, and connect. These are the simple joys that unify us all and certainly, after this difficult and unprecedented time, we will desire this even more. Of course, there will be changes in the protocols of gathering, but regardless, it will be a welcomed improvement and opportunity to gather over a glass of wine, a cup of coffee or a delicious meal. As history shows us, we will surely see a return of unbridled socializing – perhaps to the likes we have not seen in our lifetimes. I for one look forward to it with hope and desire.