GSA Showcase 2021

Part 1 of this project speculates a future whereby surveillance and technology have been pushed to the extreme due to the spread of an incurable pandemic, critiquing the underlying repercussions of surveillance and technology in our society through the ways we live.

In the year 2053, an unknown virus has spread throughout the world. In a desperate attempt to stop the spread and death toll in Singapore, complete lockdowns in homes are implemented to stop the spread of the virus. Along with the huge technological advancements in recent years, the rising demand for energy has exponentially increased. The impact of the pandemic has caused a surge in the energy demand from an increased reliance on technology to cope with the pandemic.

With the revolution of the food industry, food can be easily and quickly grown in labs. Food shortage is no longer an issue. Basic necessities would be delivered through drones that ensure contactless delivery, which brings about instant gratification through quick delivery. Individuals in lockdown will have to stay home and work for food and electricity. Their homes will be powered by the energy they generate from daily scheduled cycling that replaces work. This ensures individuals remain physically fit and healthy as well. Individuals are only allowed to leave their homes under very specific circumstances.

Individuals will be incentivized to monitor one another to deter crime and ensure nobody flouts the rules. The time spent surveying others would be rewarded with the time that one can spend online to interact with others. This system ensures the safety of the residents in their homes through the constant monitoring of their activity and health. Anyone caught attempting to break the rules will be swiftly apprehended and sent to reformation camps. Newly infected individuals are immediately sent to isolated facilities for research and testing for a cure.

This newly established world in 2053 has completely dehumanized individuals.

With increasing surveillance and technology in our modern society, are we already losing our individual identities?