This is a nicely done exercise in wishful thinking. A Google News parody was created by a site called fugue.com showing what Boing Boing calls “A brilliantly done spoof of Google News from a parallel universe where all the world's problems have been solved."
In this "parallel world" there is a cure for AIDS in the works; peace in Darfur and between the Palestinians and Israelis in the near future. In the USA meanwhile, president Obama signs the Universal Health Care Act into law and purported home run king Barry Bonds did not cheat with steroids but owes his record-breaking prowess to yoga.
The site is fun to read as it is a very good clone of the real Google News. Just about the only thing that gives it away is the fugue.com address in the browser. Good times.
Google News Spoofs
Fugue.com's Good News
Trend Themes
1. Parody News Sites - Creating satirical content that presents humorous alternative realities based on current affairs creates an opportunity to engage audiences through humorous social commentary.
2. Wishful Thinking Marketing - Developing campaigns that tap into audience desires for a better future can provide an emotional connection between consumers and brands.
3. Humorous Infotainment - Increasingly, audiences are consuming content that entertains as it informs, and creating content that delivers both can drive engagement and shares.
Industry Implications
1. Media and Entertainment - Satirical content can drive traffic and build a devoted following, providing an opportunity for innovative media companies to explore new niche markets.
2. Advertising and Marketing - Using humor to tap into audience desires for change can differentiate brands and foster emotional connections with target audiences.
3. Non-profit - Creating idealistic content that highlights the progress being made towards certain causes can help non-profits to capture the attention and engagement of potential supporters.