One of the many eye opening aspects of the isolation economy caused by COVID is watching so many "leaders" who have failed to adapt desperately try to get everyone back into the office as they watch their social power tumble in a virtual world ...
... they do not know how to act in this new world. Their physical prescence, their polish, their air of authority means nothing in the face of a generation who can create massive followings online. They are stripped bare to positional power and often found wanting.
It's amusing to watch the focus on symbols of status - a professionally designed background, a purpose built studio, an amazing microphone ... as if those acquired things will suddenly recreate that social power and enable massive followings ...
... without those symbols of power, the imposing building, the majestic office, the layers of gatekeepers, the segregation of floors ... a lot of "leaders" are being well and truly exposed. It's no wonder some are desperate to get everyone back into their offices.
I suppose this was also behind the entire push to get Parliament back into the building - the need for those symbols to cover up the failings in leadership. Many of the MPs were starting to look rather unremarkable and gosh ... what next ... citizens questioning and challenging?
... but challenge is a good thing. Brave souls would be taking the opportunity of moving Government and Parliament fully onlne. Flog off the Houses of Parliament, let some developer turn it into luxury flats. Our democracy should be allowed to flourish online ...
... but people would need to adapt, leaders would have to engage and I suspect that is what creates the most fear. With the comfort blanket of symbols removed, those Emperors can look very naked.
