Since the storyline was set 20 years into the future, several satirical forecasts were made:
The People's Republic of China embracing capitalism and becoming a global economic superpower.
Cliques of Native Americans becoming wealthy (although in reality much of their wealth would come from the gaming industry, mostly from tribal casinos).
Nike becoming a huge multinational conglomerate (In 1979, their "Tailwind" running shoe was just starting to gain popularity).
Vietnam becoming a major tourist attraction among Asia's wealthy and powerful.
The continued existence and popularity of The Beach Boys in 1998.
The collapse of the USSR.
The depletion of US crude oil production, which, according to Hubbert's Peak theory, was already underway for several years at the time the film was made.[dubious discuss]
Jogging suits becoming fashionable as "casual wear".[dubious discuss]
Reality television reaching absurd limits. (The telethon includes a boxing match between a mother and son. The son is played by Jay Leno.).
An America with a devalued dollar and heavily in debt to foreign lenders.
The United Kingdom relying heavily on tourism for income (In the film, England is the 57th state with London turned into a theme park named "Limeyland" and 10 Downing Street turned into a discothèque).
Network television dealing with previously taboo subjects accepted as normal. (Monty Rushmore stars in the sit-com, "Both Father and Mother", and plays a cross-dressing single father in the titular role. The film's narrative also mentions "The Schlong Show", a game show where contestants are judged by their reproductive organs.)
Smoking being banned.
