Political Differences Between Generations
The “lost generation” will soon be ruling the world. It’s a good thing, believe it or not!
What exactly characterizes the newer generations? Entitlement, liberal democratic views, their separation from reality? Or, what about them knowing their worth, their empathy, their enthusiastic views for the future and desire to change the injustices of our world?
“ENTITLEMENT” / KNOW THEIR WORTH
The stereotype of entitlement that is attributed to younger generations stems often from their dislike of their jobs and general desire for more than what the world offers them. Is this such a bad thing?
This confidence found within newer generations might just be a gift. In fact, this entitlement and pushiness have helped raise the minimum wage from nonexistent in 1912, to 40 cents in 1941, to $7.25 an hour in 2018! Millennials continue to push for higher minimum wage, to help give money to those truly in need. They acknowledge things could improve, that much of the pain in the world could be reduced if they only tried! This confidence and entrepreneur mindset can help the sinking economy surface and encourage a new age of rights and economic comfortability for as many people as they possibly can.
“RADICAL LIBERAL” / EMPATHY
It’s no secret most youth prefer Democrats to Republicans. But why? It undoubtedly has something to do with the fact that worldwide news is now accessible instantaneously. All day, every day, this generation is constantly aware of the perils of the world around them… and they want to help.
GoFundMe, a popular crowdfunding site often used to help those in need, had nearly half of its total users be within the age group of 25–44. Moreso, the 18–24 age group made up an additional 11 percent. Keep in mind GoFundMe gets approximately 30 donations per minute.
Because newer generations are more aware (and perhaps, can even relate to) the pain in the world, they are more sympathetic. They are more willing to help. Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean older generations aren’t as feeling, it is likely due to the fact that newer generations have much more connection to and knowledge of this pain. Knowledge is power, a power to make a real difference.
SEPARATION FROM REALITY / DESIRE TO CHANGE THE WORLD
All throughout history, those who challenge the system are shunned. Despite how many times this has occurred, no one seems to have figured out that nothing is set in stone.
The world is not perfect, and it never will be as long as humans stand on it. This doesn’t mean it can’t be better.
Finally, millennials do not have a disillusioned view of the world. They have the amazing ability to see both what is, and what could be. With their age, their resources, their knowledge, and their power at such a pivotal time in human development, perhaps this so-called “unrealistic mindset” could be their greatest asset.
