How they choose:
Every year since 1927, TIME has selected a Person of the Year, an editor’s choice of the person who, for better or worse, most influenced the news over the 12 months prior to the award. Person of the Year is an annual event that originates from the Great Man Theory of history, which holds that people have the ability to change society. Over time, there have been several trends that the choices have tended to follow. Traditionally, the selected individual has ruled over established spheres of influence. He—yes, it has typically been a “he”—is frequently a giant of business or a politician. Three Popes, five Russian or Soviet Union leaders, and fourteen US presidents have all received recognition.
Person of the Year 2023:
However, none of these roles—or even remotely similar ones—have been held by the individual whose singular influence was made clear throughout 2023. American Singer-Songwriter, Taylor Swift, has been chosen to be this year’s TIME Person of the Year.
“I can’t find anyone, really, who’s had the same career trajectory as mine,” Swift told Time Magazine in 2014 when she first appeared on the cover of TIME upon releasing her fifth studio album, 1989. “So when I’m in an optimistic place I hope that my life won’t match anyone else’s life trajectory, either.”
A great deal of what Swift achieved in 2023 is immeasurable. She charted her path and revealed the outcomes to the public. She made a commitment to affirming the hopes, emotions, and experiences of those who frequently felt disregarded and undervalued—especially women. They are aware that she values and has faith in her audience. She served as a mirror for her own life, enabling others to see themselves more clearly. She inspired others to do the same by embracing her past with all of its flaws. Although Swift’s success often seems to be at opposition with more established systems of power, the foundation of her expertise is far older. Drawing from her personal experience, she is crafting her own story. It has been just as epic. So many people turn to her music as an escape from their reality.
