Independent fact tank Gapminder Foundation and Expo 2020 set to challenge Expo visitors’ world view.
Forget the well-worn claim that “ignorance is bliss”: understanding based on accurate data is the real key to progress and happiness.
To that end, Expo 2020 has teamed up with the statistics resource Gapminder Foundation to challenge Expo visitors’ comprehension of what is really happening in the world, with the aim of transforming our visitors into global champions for change based on accurate knowledge.
Expo’s visitors will be asked a series of questions about a variety of topics that impact them by the Sweden-based Foundation – and the correct answers could well challenge their preconceived notions.
For those who fret that the world is getting worse or are wondering how we can combat exaggeration, spin and untruths in a “fake news” era, then this project may hold the answer to creating a fairer world, with reliable, easy-to-understand data.
With millions of visitors expected to take part, many are likely to be surprised and galvanised to make better decisions, as their common misconceptions and biases about society and global development are dismantled.
This partnership follows the results of Expo 2020’s Global Optimism Outlook Survey, which highlighted people’s desire for increased communication, knowledge-sharing and cross-border collaboration.
“The world is far more optimistic than is often felt,” said Ola Rosling, chairman and co-founder, Gapminder Foundation. “The Gapminder Foundation was born to allow people to be able to learn more about the world for themselves in a clear, unbiased manner.
“We see challenges in the world every day but this, in turn, creates opportunities. The magic happens when the world comes together to inspire change on a global scale, and that’s exactly the intent of Expo 2020 Dubai. Therefore, we’re truly excited to be part of this project, to help people make better informed choices that lead to positive change for the future.”