Protentions: Aram's 2025 world horoscope

Back in December, I sent a 2025 horoscope to a few friends—some predictions about where the world might be headed. Now, as some of these shifts begin to unfold, I wanted to share them more broadly. Many people still find these ideas unlikely, but change has a way of catching us off guard. What do you think? Which of these forecasts seem likely, and which do you think I got completely wrong?

?? American Dynamism: The U.S. will lean into its role as a super-charged, noisy democracy. Expect economic growth alongside rapid change and dislocation.

?? A Lull in the Storm: The rest of the world may start to stabilize—especially in late 2025. The political dislocations of late 2024 (Germany, France, Syria, South Korea) will taper off—temporarily—as the initial ripples of the Trump shock settle.

?? Re-enchantment: Expect a resurgence of interest in traditional religions. Prominent figures will convert to Orthodoxy, Catholicism, and other faiths. Intellectuals and atheists will engage more with mysticism, symbolism, and spirituality. Philosophy and ancient (rather than modern) ways of knowing will gain traction. Even serious LARPing as adherents of Norse and other ancient religions will rise.

?? Economic “Stuckness”: Much of the world will experience economic hardship as tariffs, a strong dollar, and America’s retreat from enforcing the U.S.-led world order accelerate. Look for petty warfare, stagnant growth, rising costs of living, and broad economic frustration.

?? Russia Rebound: Russia’s influence in Europe will continue to grow. The key question: Will its role be manageable, or will it turn ugly (nuclear ugly)? Expect more serious discussions—outside the fringe—about Russia’s role and legacy, even as Europe begins to push back.

?? Europe’s Reawakening (Very Early Signs): 2025 will be tough for Europe—threats from Russia, economic stagnation, and cultural disillusionment will loom large. But by year-end, look for early signs of change: renewed national identities, increased military spending, and a shift toward embracing economic hardship instead of coasting into decline.

Predictions are always a gamble, but the patterns of history and current trends suggest that 2025 will be a year of both upheaval and unexpected stability. Some of these ideas may play out exactly as expected, while others could be wildly off the mark. Either way, I’d love to hear your thoughts—what would you add or challenge? Let’s compare notes at the end of the year.