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Why We Need Fiction by Joan Westenberg at Web Directions Next 2024

Web Directions Next may be a brand-new event from us, but its DNA goes back to our earliest days.

Imagine a super concentrated day of our most engaging keynotes and talks. Opportunities to connect meaningfully with others who get excited about this stuff as much as you do.

That’s Next which will help you chart what’s next in product, design and strategy and it features amazing talks like this.

Banner for the conference session. Repeats the name and role of the speaker plus the session on a mesh gradient background

Why We Need Fiction

Stories Still Fucking Matter in a Data-Driven World.

We’re living in the age of information overload. Time is precious. Why not cut to the chase and absorb knowledge in its purest form?

Because that’s not the way knowledge works.

Sometimes, the only way to really get at the truth is through a lie. And that’s not just a metaphor — it’s a fundamental aspect of how our brains work, how we learn, and how we grow.

About Joan Westenberg

Joan is a writer, investor, philosopher and founder, who’s been published by Wired, the AFR, The Next Web, TIME, etc.

Through @Westenberg, she covers tech, economics and humans. As a creator, she helps technology companies market their platforms and tell better stories.

Joan founded Idle Ventures, a portfolio company, studio and fund.

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