27 Mar 2020
5m

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Life and Art from FT Weekend

The sudden shift in cultural consumption and social behavior during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a rapid democratization of exclusive content and a surge in virtual socialization. Digital platforms now host everything from free live fitness classes to informal celebrity interactions, such as J Balvin and Cardi B sharing meals on Instagram Live, as traditional venues like comedy clubs remain closed. Beyond the digital sphere, a renewed appreciation for nature and tactile hobbies has emerged, evidenced by a significant business boom for garden centers and online plant stores as people seek therapeutic outlets away from screens. These shifts raise pressing questions about the long-term impact on human relationships, including potential surges in both divorces and birth rates once lockdowns lift. While physical distancing remains a priority, the increased reliance on tools like Zoom has paradoxically fostered a more active, albeit virtual, social life.

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