The Context of soft

Abstract

This chapter describes the macro context for the soft aesthetic experience through an exploratory overview of emerging and current shifts within three macro areas: Society and Culture, Science and Technology and Design and Aesthetics. The aim of this section is to set a foundation for the book through graspable explanations of pivotal moments influencing soft, not only as a design aesthetic but also as a movement, a quality of life and a platform for the future. The first section “soft in Society and Culture” brings to the forefront important and current influential topics such as the emergence and prevalence of soft power, soft skills and a non-compartmentalized way of thinking and taking action in order to solve pressing problems. The second section “soft in Science and Tech”, examines recent developments propelled by the emergence of movements such as The Fourth Industrial Revolution and technologies including Web3, 5G and 6G, articulated in the context of the book, together with important neuroscientific models including the Aesthetic Triad and scientific tools for mapping and visualizing emotions. The third section “soft in Design and Aesthetics”, explores practices such as sensory design through a new light to include a broader spectrum of senses and their interactions through sensory experiences. Emerging design areas such as The Aesthetics of Wellbeing, Sensory Restoration and Soft Rooms are also explored.