Human Awkwardness is Exposed in This Walking Contest Video
Megan Facciuolo — March 17, 2014 — Pop Culture
The Walking Contest video sheds light on a situation that we have all experienced: walking directly beside a stranger at the same pace. Video creator and star Daniel Koren relates the situation to a walking contest.
Why does such a natural thing, like walking next to someone, implode feelings of awkwardness? In this video, Koren voices his thoughts and actions when walking next to a stranger symmetrically. His thoughts are similar to those in a competition or race; "Should I walk faster?" "Should I look busier?" and "Who should pull back?"
This video supports the notion that we all want some personal space, even in areas that lack it, such as a busy city street. But really, what makes us so uncomfortable about it? With millions of people populating a city, there is bound to be one person walking in the same direction as you are. Embrace the human connection -- or just give yourself a workout by challenging them to a race.
Why does such a natural thing, like walking next to someone, implode feelings of awkwardness? In this video, Koren voices his thoughts and actions when walking next to a stranger symmetrically. His thoughts are similar to those in a competition or race; "Should I walk faster?" "Should I look busier?" and "Who should pull back?"
This video supports the notion that we all want some personal space, even in areas that lack it, such as a busy city street. But really, what makes us so uncomfortable about it? With millions of people populating a city, there is bound to be one person walking in the same direction as you are. Embrace the human connection -- or just give yourself a workout by challenging them to a race.
Trend Themes
1. Awkwardness in Daily Encounters - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop technologies or strategies to alleviate feelings of awkwardness in everyday interactions.
2. Importance of Personal Space - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore solutions to create personal space in crowded environments, improving comfort and reducing stress.
3. Reimagining Urban Mobility - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Rethink transportation systems and infrastructure to enhance mobility while considering individual preferences for personal space.
Industry Implications
1. Social Interaction Technologies - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop platforms or applications that facilitate smoother and less awkward social interactions, especially in crowded urban settings.
2. Architecture and Urban Planning - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design cities and urban spaces with a focus on providing adequate personal space and minimizing uncomfortable encounters.
3. Transportation and Mobility Solutions - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create innovative transportation options that prioritize individual comfort and personal space, reimagining urban mobility experiences.
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