1925 Predictions of the Future: Accurate and Outlandish Forecasts

1925 Predictions of the Future: Accurate and Outlandish Forecasts

theguardian.com

1925 Predictions of the Future: Accurate and Outlandish Forecasts

Archibald Montgomery Low, in 1925, accurately predicted the widespread use of radio alarm clocks, personal radios, television, and moving pavements, showcasing remarkable foresight in his book "The Future", while some other predictions, such as clothing styles, proved less accurate.

English
United Kingdom
TechnologyScienceInnovation2025PredictionsFutureArchibald Montgomery Low
FindmypastLondon Daily NewsDaily Express
Archibald Montgomery LowJen Baldwin
How do Archibald Montgomery Low's less successful predictions, such as those regarding fashion, inform our understanding of the interplay between technological innovation and societal adoption?
Low's predictions, unearthed from the Findmypast archive, reveal a blend of accurate and outlandish forecasts. While his predictions about radio, television, and automated transportation proved remarkably accurate, others, such as synthetic felt one-piece suits, were less so. This highlights the complexity of predicting future societal and technological shifts.
What broader implications can be derived from comparing Low's accurate and inaccurate predictions for assessing current technological projections and their potential for influencing future societal development?
Low's accurate predictions of communication and transportation technologies demonstrate the potential for technological forecasting, while his less accurate predictions, like the widespread adoption of specific clothing styles, reveal limitations. The contrast underscores the difficulty in predicting societal acceptance and adoption of new technologies. His work encourages a critical assessment of modern technological predictions.
What specific technological predictions made by Archibald Montgomery Low in 1925 proved remarkably accurate in 2025, and what are the direct implications of this accuracy for understanding technological forecasting?
In 1925, Archibald Montgomery Low accurately predicted several aspects of modern life, including radio alarm clocks, personal radio communication, and the use of loudspeakers and television for news and entertainment. His foresight extended to technologies like moving pavements and automatic telephones, showcasing remarkable accuracy in anticipating technological advancements.

Cognitive Concepts

3/5

Framing Bias

The article is framed positively towards Low's predictions. The headline and opening sentences highlight his accuracy, creating a narrative that emphasizes his visionary genius. While acknowledging some inaccuracies, the overall focus remains on his successes, potentially leading readers to view his work more favorably than a fully balanced account might.

2/5

Language Bias

The language used is mostly neutral and objective. Terms like "ruthlessly imaginative" are presented as quotes from other sources rather than the author's opinion. However, phrases like "spot on" and "outlandish imaginings" could be considered slightly loaded, although the overall tone maintains a balance.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses heavily on Archibald Montgomery Low's accurate predictions, giving less attention to those that were inaccurate or controversial. While it mentions some inaccurate predictions, a more balanced account would delve deeper into the failures, providing a fuller picture of Low's prophetic abilities and limitations. Omitting detailed analysis of his less successful predictions might lead readers to overestimate the accuracy of his overall foresight.

1/5

Gender Bias

The article includes a quote from Low expressing a sexist view on women's intelligence. However, this quote is presented critically, not as an endorsement. The article does not perpetuate gender stereotypes in its general portrayal of Low or his predictions. The inclusion of the critical quote actually serves to provide a more complete, if slightly negative, picture of the subject.

Sustainable Development Goals

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure Very Positive
Direct Relevance

Archibald Montgomery Low's predictions, many of which have come true, showcase significant advancements in technology and infrastructure. His accurate forecasts regarding radio, television, automated systems (like alarm clocks and telephones), and transportation systems (moving pavements/escalators) directly demonstrate progress in infrastructure and innovation. The article highlights the fulfillment of his prediction about harnessing wind and tide for energy, pointing to advancements in renewable energy infrastructure.