Technology in genereal and, recently, the internet and most recently, artificial intelligence perhaps play a role in the deterioration of the nuclear family. Video games, pornography, social media, cell phones all serve as alternatives to human interaction. Gen Z are socially awkward, would prefer a text message to a phone call, play video games over real life experience and substitute social media to social experience. It is no wonder that marriage and family are not priorities. The interpersonal skills and individual responsibility required of a successful and fruitful bonding are absent.
Jeff, I wonder if Tyler Robinson would have shot Charlie Kirk if not for the internet, social media, gaming, and some kind of indoctrination over the web. Robinson seemed to have a formal conservative religious background.
I truly appreciate the way you tied these three stories together. Each one on its own is troubling, but when viewed side by side, they paint a sobering picture of where our country could be headed if we lose sight of the values that built Western civilization. Your reference to Zimmerman’s study was especially powerful, it reminds us that family, faith, and freedom are not just abstract ideals, but the bedrock that has sustained societies across history.
Thank you for continuing to speak plainly and courageously about these issues. It’s a needed reminder that if we want a future worth passing on, we must be willing to defend the principles and institutions that made America strong in the first place.
Interesting analysis of the social views of generation Z.
I asked my friendly AI "What are the identifying characteristics of generation Z" I received back a long definition, but here is the summary.
" Generation Z, or Gen Z are digital natives known for their pragmatism, diversity and inclusivity, and focus on mental health awareness and work-life balance. They are financially cautious, technologically adept and value authenticity, preferring independence, whilst also seeking supportive communities. Gen Z is also characterized by a strong sense of social consciousness, progressive political views and entrepreneurial spirit focused on career growth and stability."
Later on, in the expansion of this summary, AI supports to some extent Andy's thesis. Under the heading of "Work-life Balance" is the following summary. " They prioritize flexibility, self-care, and personal time, often choosing to delay major life steps to protect their well-being."
Under another heading, "Autonomy and Flexibility": In the workplace, they expect to be heard and to be an equal contributor".
I have my own interpretation of this AI analysis. But I leave it to readers to draw their own conclusions
Sounds a lot like the "BoBo's" who emerged out of the 1960's social revolution.
The Bohemian Bourgeois - who enjoyed a content life in the suburbs, but also included their own brand of secular social consciousness along with it. But few formal religious ties. Were they first round of children from broken homes and the no-fault divorce movement of the 1970's?
I think it is instructive to read what employers have to say about Gen Z. Also, it seems that the Gen Z population has a much higher rate of mental health issues than previous cohorts. There is general agreement on their ability to use computers and digital technology. But they fall short significantly in personal, human to human interactions and teamwork in the workplace. All this is combined with unrealistic assumptions about their importance in the job and expectations of advancement. These issues might, in part, for some of them, be due to isolation during the pandemic shutdown.
You sized up again Derek why parental standards, expectations, and interventions are critical, since our brain’s frontal lobe isn’t fully developed until age 26. Every youth needs at least one involved, trusted adult in their life for feedback if not guidance. I observed local public schools continuously messaged the false narrative that ‘if you go to college, you’ll make lots of money and live well’: not true when some degrees have no monetary value, compared to a skill. Too many colleges have become party- social recreational centers with elaborate facilities requiring class attendance 4-days a week, not 6-days, if class attendance required at all. On-line learning allows others to fulfill course requirements for class credit. CA “Collaborative Math” in K-12, results in shocked SAT test takers left to answer on their own. How do K-12 students experience personal mastery or accountability? Schools indoctrinate “we’re in this together” — collaborate, teamwork.
I agree. State Schools are an utter disgrace. The correction is in the hands of the voting population but they refuse to take the required actions. The huge question is when will the Hispanic population rebel, now that their children are by far the majority of students in K through 12 in California.
20 years ago when business people were asked what majors suited college graduates best for their field, they begged please send us more English majors.
Send us someone who can actually write a complete sentance and use proper punctuation. That was 20 years ago before we got taken over by abbreviated text messages and short-hand code words. And those entering the English language now only through the aural tradition from their native mother tongues, but not through the more formal written tradition. So their spelling is often phonetic and sentence structure more run-on.
I assume these business people have given up wishing for complete sentences in any language today, plus how many colleges stopped teaching the works of old dead white men anyway. Let alone struggling through Yeat's Sailing to Byzantium - catching the ephemeral in mere written words on the page.
AI and dictation apps can now replace pretty much everything requiring literary skills, including hiring any underlings to do the writing for the boss in the first place. ...This is no place for old men ......
I like to seek analogies in the world I see around me. As parents know, we raise our children and do our best to prepare our children to move out and live on their own independent from their parents. If we are successful parents, that goal is achieved.
Unfortunately, our state and federal governments have slowly become the quasi parents of our society, and parents who have not prepared their children to live on their own and refuse to force their children to move out.
I'm lucky that both my kids have moved out and on their own and supporting themselves. I believe that it's the Grace Of God that their goals were achieved mostly and partly by continual support,guidance and encouragement by their family.
I did not entrust the government or schools to raise my children.
"We're told by our culture,” he writes, “that a woman who is unmarried and has no children is empowered and in charge of her own life. She has escaped the unnecessary burden of raising a family and being a slave to her husband."
Why does this matter in any capacity? I don't care if secular women remain single and childless - besides, what about marriage [a sacramental union and vocation] and children would appeal to such women? What's in it for them?
Now allegedly [I can't say I fully believe, but neither can I dismiss it], feminists claim that many women among their ranks desire marriage, yet object to the quality of men [Gen X men, apparently you all are trash in particular], and then speak of the "household labor inequalities", with men doing little inside the home.
"Morgan Stanley estimates that 45% of women in their "prime working years" (ages 25 to 44) will be single and childless by the time 2030 arrives. That begs the question, where are the men who aspire to be husbands and fathers?"
Don't know, don't care. Again, of what concern is it to me that secular men marry and have children? It isn't. I see couples at Mass and see hear babies babbling and crying, that's good enough for me, the Barque of Peter will always have a new generation to save.
"Gen Z, among others, by rejecting the values, including family values, along with the principles and precepts of our constitutional government, and the faith that made our country what it was, indicates they are inclined to throw out the family construct and the civilization it built, along with the baby and the bath water."
"Family values" are a nebulous term that just as easily apply to leftists, and well - the number of people on this page who support pornography or are otherwise ambivalent prove that family values aren't popular among older generations either.
"Precepts of our constitutional government-" which has failed to preserve a moral society... and has led to the decline in "traditionalism" thanks to liberalism, the radical negation of God in the public sphere [which this nation was founded on].
"Faith-" protestantism is an error, one of the early modern errors that would destroy Christendom, and allow for secular and liberal ideologies to take hold thanks to the reduced temporal power of the Pope, and the Protestant embrace of secular ideals...
Erika Frantzve Kirk (Charlie Kirk's widow) told Sage Steele on the latter's podcast 3 months ago that "Happy Wife equals Happy Life". She was 5 years Charlie's senior and couldn't have been happier than being married, and being married to Charlie. The synergy of marriage is more than the sum of what the 2 partners bring into it.
I'm not denying the experience of a married woman like Mrs. Kirk, but I fail to see the relevance to my comment.
Concerning women and marriage, I simply said I am not concerned with secular women avoiding marriage and that, at least from what I've seen from feminist perspectives, there is little reason [even if there is desire] to marry.
Truly, why would women care about marriage? What's the quality of the average man, is he going to be a good husband and father?
What does married life look like - and if it doesn't appeal to these women, well what are you going to do if you don't address their concerns?
To be fair to the grievances brought up by feminists, not to validate their movement - but to show their avoidance of "family/marriage"
1. Men who are neither supportive or kind.
2. Men who work, but cannot even do basic things around the house while women both work and do household labor.
3. Bad sex... [sex is reduced to male entitlement and has little concern for the desires of the woman... - yes this is an issue they note. Sex is more akin to male masturbation inside a female body. Instead of the "Song of Songs", we have "Pornhub"
4. Straight up abusive men.
5. Immature men - aloof, insensitive, and lacking in love.
6. Fear of dependence [with dependence their is vulnerability, what happens when you have a bad husband as a woman? A neglectful or unloving one? That's a lifetime of sorrow and no support - yeah, not exactly appealing...
This is a very basic list of the things I vaguely remember, I'm sure feminists/progressives have more, but I feel these reasons generally align with the spirit of feminist greivances.
Simply saying "marriage is good, I've never been happier" is tonedeaf to those who don't see it as good.
And don't accuse me of being a liberal if you're thinking about doing so, just look at my bio.
If Andy's evaluation is correct, then our nation is facing an existential threat. The evil of a secular governmental dictatorship is looming on close approach. No nation, founded on faith, will ultimately accept as their ruling government, secular tyranny. Push back, resistance and perhaps national division is likely.
"The evil of a secular governmental dictatorship is looming on close approach" - sir, we've had this since 1776.
America has never embraced the Christian faith exclusively, let alone the Catholic faith which it has a less than good history with, it has never and will never enthrone Christ as King, as that would violate it's own founding principles.
Some of the founders were deists, freemasons, and "theistic rationalists", and some like John Adam's questioned orthodoxy.
"Their Enlightenment worldview, which emphasized reason, skepticism of dogma, and the importance of individual liberty, guided their approach to religion and governance."
"The Constitution, a central founding document, makes no mention of God or Christianity, reflecting a deliberate effort to create a secular government."
First GenZ response to me after forwarding Andy’s article to over a dozen: “ Thanks for sharing. It makes sense that the economic realities are the reasons why younger generations are questioning traditional paths.”
Is it though? I am a poor young man, yet I desire marriage. I know I am not fit for it now, but I have not "questioned marriage [traditional paths]".
I question why secular individuals, especially the "non normie" [young people, specifically] types would have children all together, regardless of financial stability - heck the wealthiest people often have the fewest children.
Not that it matters. Secular fertility isn't something to worry over.
Our government is little more than a business operator exercising express and limited obligations that have been set out in the US Constitution. This business operation has no business being the arbiter or caretaker of our souls. Protection for our autonomous souls is exactly why we needed to amend the Bill of Rights to this document
However incumbent in the protection of our rights, are duties also required from each individual in order to protect those rights. At one time, that was provided by the common "God-fearing culture" shared by the early Founders of this nation. They knew this experiment in self-governance could not exist outside a mutual interplay of rights and duties.
Over time, this shared culture as a "God-fearing nation" has eroded. In its place today is this new cultural proclamation "diversity is our strength". However, that is proving to be a false god. Our current lack of social cohesion is fast becoming our weakest link; not our strength.
Perhaps it is time we amend a Bill of Duties onto our US Constitution. It is at least worthy of discussion - what ten duties are also incumbent upon each of us, so that we may continue to enjoy the blessings of freedom in this country enshrined in our Bill of Rights - which have been endowed by our Creator.
Touche' once again Andy! A nuclear family does not need to be "dominated" by the father; if is a joint venture with the mother and father displaying equal responsibility and lessons, all important to the success of the family, our culture, society and nation.
I really hope the gathering for Charlie Kirk today was focused on a vow of finding truth and justice for Charlie and his family and not yet another excuse to attack the left for an hour.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable Rights..."
The problem that is that many people take the language referring to the "Creator" as meaning the God they understand through their particular religion, and insist that the rules and moral laws of their particular religion must apply to all. That's the theory in Iranian, as well as among certain (but not all) Christian (and other) religious groups.
In the context of the declaration of independence the meaning is clear. You make a great point in opposition to immigration. Especially intellectual rot from Canada.
Burton, what you wrote is only true to a point. Our concept of government was the child of our Judeo-Christian heritage and Western Civilization. NO OTHER CIVILIZATION/RELIGION could have formed our government establishing the DIVINE rights of mankind. You can't compare our culture, laws, and freedom with Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, or worse, the atheism of communism and socialism. As the founding fathers noted, our form of government was formed for, and only works with, a God-fearing people who are moral and upright, because you CAN'T trust liberty and freedom to people who are not bound by their faith to follow the laws of God and nature.
You equate moral uprightness with Christianity? Our concept of government also has roots in ancient Greece (pagan), Rome (pagan), and was also influenced by the Iroquois confederation. Which is to say, Buddhists, atheists, Hindus, Muslims, and so on can all exist within the secular system of American government.
Who doesn’t share internet intoxication, or the anxiety of GenZ, 13-28 year olds (born 1997 to 2012)? Doing everything right, contributing over and beyond, nowadays does not necessarily result in access to or attainment of the American dream. Young adults seek a fair chance for life satisfaction: to own a home, marry, have a family, participate in community. Is anyone listening to help them create a path around public policy roadblocks? I know many 22-35 year old stellar, responsible, disciplined, hard working, highly educated young women who are totally unlike those described by Evie author Gino Florio: they don’t sleep around, or expect to be taken care of by easy to access CA entitlements. They’re financially literate, know civics, the American way and they seek it!
Where are the like-minded males? Did we distract too many with gaming, or did we diminiship their importance? (I cringed when the Boys Club began allowing girl members, with Girls Inc across the street, not allowing boys. There’s a reason for gender only youth clubs and sports.)
We elders must actively help our youth access to perserve America and Western Civilization. Our roles are important. Public policies and elections require activists, our full participation.
I attended the memorial today for Charlie Kirk held at the SB Courthouse. It was a solemn event, surrounded by peace, love and understanding. Very soul refreshing, reflective and respectful.
So glad to have attended, many thanks to the organizers, SB Republican Committee and of course, the great patriots that showed up and stood up for Charlie!
Good Article…unfortunately, Gen Z was a segment of society hardest hit by the Color Revolution that has rocked Our Nation…young minds with little to no life experiences ripe for indoctrination…Methinks that these young folks will soon be smackeroled, as with others still asleep under the mind spell of our false sense of reality…
Best to Strive to Survive 2025…we’re in for some highly turbulent times, the predictive models are showing highly emotional events beginning the first week of October…be strong, love thy neighbor…
PS. Gen Alpha, along with a large portion of Gen Z, will be our greatest generations as we transition into our brave new world with new realizations (secrets revealed) & ever increasing new inventions to build The Golden Age…we have been lied to about EVERYTHING, including who we are as humans.
Thanks Andy. Both my kids Gen Zers are very different. My daughter for sure fits some of these points in this article and many of her friends and many young Gen Z women that I know.
On the other hand my son also a Gen Zer has gone back to Church,is more conservative politically and hold traditional values.
Both children raised in the Church,went to private school and raised in a traditional family with traditional values.Stay at home Mom,kids played sports and other activities.
In another article I read it seems Gen Z males are more Conservative and are the group embracing the Church.
I believe that there is definitely an alarming ttend with Gen Z women going away from God and their political ideals becoming more socialist.
I don’t share your experience or observation of local GenZ women, most who wisely leave South County Santa Barbara for life and career opportunities. That’s not to deny young female social media validation addiction. As the mom of a GenZ 26-year old all-American daughter, she and her many friends are far from socialists. Rather they’re remarkable, determined women. I’d have thrown in the towel by now, given up, if in their shoes. Imagine their numerous obstacles including employer or school forced COVID vaccinations. Despite countless obstacles these young disciplined women carry on seeking to attain the American dream which includes a husband, family, home in a safe traditional American community.
That's amazing. My daughter a college grad and hard working employed and living on her own does have some of the qualities that your daughter shares but living in another town and graduating from a liberal college has changed her views politically and also turned her away from the Church.
She is though a thoughtful and caring person,a friend to many and has probably lived through some of the most difficult times in the US.
Thanks for reminding me of the special qualities that the Gen Z women have.
The values instilled by parents are within our children surfacing at different times. Nothing is lost. I look at myself at age 16- to gzee, was it 45, after my parents died, that parental teachings and values remembered and put into practice? As a Gerontologist, sociologists/ psychologists seem to be taking this generational stuff to extremes. The younger generations are assets!
Thanks Andy for a very thoughtful article and Zimmerman and Kurth for the same. My understanding of Gen Zers is that they are currently ages 13-28. Why does this group feel this way? Was it the required isolation during COVID? The incredible inflation during the Biden years? Colleges and employers favoring characteristics other than ability or performance? Some combination of these and other factors? Scholars may wish to investigate why the Roaring Twenties followed a pandemic.
Our children are influenced by countless outside sources. I kept reminding mine: “You are an ambassador of our family, wherever you go. You take who you are wherever you go the rest of your life. Think before you act.” (Selfishly, I don’t know how I’d cope if ever my child did something horrific. The tolerance thresholds, the coping mechanisms of some parents far exceed mine.)
Technology in genereal and, recently, the internet and most recently, artificial intelligence perhaps play a role in the deterioration of the nuclear family. Video games, pornography, social media, cell phones all serve as alternatives to human interaction. Gen Z are socially awkward, would prefer a text message to a phone call, play video games over real life experience and substitute social media to social experience. It is no wonder that marriage and family are not priorities. The interpersonal skills and individual responsibility required of a successful and fruitful bonding are absent.
Jeff, I wonder if Tyler Robinson would have shot Charlie Kirk if not for the internet, social media, gaming, and some kind of indoctrination over the web. Robinson seemed to have a formal conservative religious background.
Excellent.
Andy,
I truly appreciate the way you tied these three stories together. Each one on its own is troubling, but when viewed side by side, they paint a sobering picture of where our country could be headed if we lose sight of the values that built Western civilization. Your reference to Zimmerman’s study was especially powerful, it reminds us that family, faith, and freedom are not just abstract ideals, but the bedrock that has sustained societies across history.
Thank you for continuing to speak plainly and courageously about these issues. It’s a needed reminder that if we want a future worth passing on, we must be willing to defend the principles and institutions that made America strong in the first place.
Enough Is Enough 805
Interesting analysis of the social views of generation Z.
I asked my friendly AI "What are the identifying characteristics of generation Z" I received back a long definition, but here is the summary.
" Generation Z, or Gen Z are digital natives known for their pragmatism, diversity and inclusivity, and focus on mental health awareness and work-life balance. They are financially cautious, technologically adept and value authenticity, preferring independence, whilst also seeking supportive communities. Gen Z is also characterized by a strong sense of social consciousness, progressive political views and entrepreneurial spirit focused on career growth and stability."
Later on, in the expansion of this summary, AI supports to some extent Andy's thesis. Under the heading of "Work-life Balance" is the following summary. " They prioritize flexibility, self-care, and personal time, often choosing to delay major life steps to protect their well-being."
Under another heading, "Autonomy and Flexibility": In the workplace, they expect to be heard and to be an equal contributor".
I have my own interpretation of this AI analysis. But I leave it to readers to draw their own conclusions
Sounds a lot like the "BoBo's" who emerged out of the 1960's social revolution.
The Bohemian Bourgeois - who enjoyed a content life in the suburbs, but also included their own brand of secular social consciousness along with it. But few formal religious ties. Were they first round of children from broken homes and the no-fault divorce movement of the 1970's?
I think it is instructive to read what employers have to say about Gen Z. Also, it seems that the Gen Z population has a much higher rate of mental health issues than previous cohorts. There is general agreement on their ability to use computers and digital technology. But they fall short significantly in personal, human to human interactions and teamwork in the workplace. All this is combined with unrealistic assumptions about their importance in the job and expectations of advancement. These issues might, in part, for some of them, be due to isolation during the pandemic shutdown.
You sized up again Derek why parental standards, expectations, and interventions are critical, since our brain’s frontal lobe isn’t fully developed until age 26. Every youth needs at least one involved, trusted adult in their life for feedback if not guidance. I observed local public schools continuously messaged the false narrative that ‘if you go to college, you’ll make lots of money and live well’: not true when some degrees have no monetary value, compared to a skill. Too many colleges have become party- social recreational centers with elaborate facilities requiring class attendance 4-days a week, not 6-days, if class attendance required at all. On-line learning allows others to fulfill course requirements for class credit. CA “Collaborative Math” in K-12, results in shocked SAT test takers left to answer on their own. How do K-12 students experience personal mastery or accountability? Schools indoctrinate “we’re in this together” — collaborate, teamwork.
I agree. State Schools are an utter disgrace. The correction is in the hands of the voting population but they refuse to take the required actions. The huge question is when will the Hispanic population rebel, now that their children are by far the majority of students in K through 12 in California.
20 years ago when business people were asked what majors suited college graduates best for their field, they begged please send us more English majors.
Send us someone who can actually write a complete sentance and use proper punctuation. That was 20 years ago before we got taken over by abbreviated text messages and short-hand code words. And those entering the English language now only through the aural tradition from their native mother tongues, but not through the more formal written tradition. So their spelling is often phonetic and sentence structure more run-on.
I assume these business people have given up wishing for complete sentences in any language today, plus how many colleges stopped teaching the works of old dead white men anyway. Let alone struggling through Yeat's Sailing to Byzantium - catching the ephemeral in mere written words on the page.
AI and dictation apps can now replace pretty much everything requiring literary skills, including hiring any underlings to do the writing for the boss in the first place. ...This is no place for old men ......
Andy, thank you for your good analysis.
I like to seek analogies in the world I see around me. As parents know, we raise our children and do our best to prepare our children to move out and live on their own independent from their parents. If we are successful parents, that goal is achieved.
Unfortunately, our state and federal governments have slowly become the quasi parents of our society, and parents who have not prepared their children to live on their own and refuse to force their children to move out.
Berney
I'm lucky that both my kids have moved out and on their own and supporting themselves. I believe that it's the Grace Of God that their goals were achieved mostly and partly by continual support,guidance and encouragement by their family.
I did not entrust the government or schools to raise my children.
"We're told by our culture,” he writes, “that a woman who is unmarried and has no children is empowered and in charge of her own life. She has escaped the unnecessary burden of raising a family and being a slave to her husband."
Why does this matter in any capacity? I don't care if secular women remain single and childless - besides, what about marriage [a sacramental union and vocation] and children would appeal to such women? What's in it for them?
Now allegedly [I can't say I fully believe, but neither can I dismiss it], feminists claim that many women among their ranks desire marriage, yet object to the quality of men [Gen X men, apparently you all are trash in particular], and then speak of the "household labor inequalities", with men doing little inside the home.
"Morgan Stanley estimates that 45% of women in their "prime working years" (ages 25 to 44) will be single and childless by the time 2030 arrives. That begs the question, where are the men who aspire to be husbands and fathers?"
Don't know, don't care. Again, of what concern is it to me that secular men marry and have children? It isn't. I see couples at Mass and see hear babies babbling and crying, that's good enough for me, the Barque of Peter will always have a new generation to save.
"Gen Z, among others, by rejecting the values, including family values, along with the principles and precepts of our constitutional government, and the faith that made our country what it was, indicates they are inclined to throw out the family construct and the civilization it built, along with the baby and the bath water."
"Family values" are a nebulous term that just as easily apply to leftists, and well - the number of people on this page who support pornography or are otherwise ambivalent prove that family values aren't popular among older generations either.
"Precepts of our constitutional government-" which has failed to preserve a moral society... and has led to the decline in "traditionalism" thanks to liberalism, the radical negation of God in the public sphere [which this nation was founded on].
"Faith-" protestantism is an error, one of the early modern errors that would destroy Christendom, and allow for secular and liberal ideologies to take hold thanks to the reduced temporal power of the Pope, and the Protestant embrace of secular ideals...
Erika Frantzve Kirk (Charlie Kirk's widow) told Sage Steele on the latter's podcast 3 months ago that "Happy Wife equals Happy Life". She was 5 years Charlie's senior and couldn't have been happier than being married, and being married to Charlie. The synergy of marriage is more than the sum of what the 2 partners bring into it.
I'm not denying the experience of a married woman like Mrs. Kirk, but I fail to see the relevance to my comment.
Concerning women and marriage, I simply said I am not concerned with secular women avoiding marriage and that, at least from what I've seen from feminist perspectives, there is little reason [even if there is desire] to marry.
Truly, why would women care about marriage? What's the quality of the average man, is he going to be a good husband and father?
What does married life look like - and if it doesn't appeal to these women, well what are you going to do if you don't address their concerns?
To be fair to the grievances brought up by feminists, not to validate their movement - but to show their avoidance of "family/marriage"
1. Men who are neither supportive or kind.
2. Men who work, but cannot even do basic things around the house while women both work and do household labor.
3. Bad sex... [sex is reduced to male entitlement and has little concern for the desires of the woman... - yes this is an issue they note. Sex is more akin to male masturbation inside a female body. Instead of the "Song of Songs", we have "Pornhub"
4. Straight up abusive men.
5. Immature men - aloof, insensitive, and lacking in love.
6. Fear of dependence [with dependence their is vulnerability, what happens when you have a bad husband as a woman? A neglectful or unloving one? That's a lifetime of sorrow and no support - yeah, not exactly appealing...
This is a very basic list of the things I vaguely remember, I'm sure feminists/progressives have more, but I feel these reasons generally align with the spirit of feminist greivances.
Simply saying "marriage is good, I've never been happier" is tonedeaf to those who don't see it as good.
And don't accuse me of being a liberal if you're thinking about doing so, just look at my bio.
If Andy's evaluation is correct, then our nation is facing an existential threat. The evil of a secular governmental dictatorship is looming on close approach. No nation, founded on faith, will ultimately accept as their ruling government, secular tyranny. Push back, resistance and perhaps national division is likely.
"The evil of a secular governmental dictatorship is looming on close approach" - sir, we've had this since 1776.
America has never embraced the Christian faith exclusively, let alone the Catholic faith which it has a less than good history with, it has never and will never enthrone Christ as King, as that would violate it's own founding principles.
Some of the founders were deists, freemasons, and "theistic rationalists", and some like John Adam's questioned orthodoxy.
"Their Enlightenment worldview, which emphasized reason, skepticism of dogma, and the importance of individual liberty, guided their approach to religion and governance."
"The Constitution, a central founding document, makes no mention of God or Christianity, reflecting a deliberate effort to create a secular government."
Yeah... not exactly the "Reign of Christ".
First GenZ response to me after forwarding Andy’s article to over a dozen: “ Thanks for sharing. It makes sense that the economic realities are the reasons why younger generations are questioning traditional paths.”
Is it though? I am a poor young man, yet I desire marriage. I know I am not fit for it now, but I have not "questioned marriage [traditional paths]".
I question why secular individuals, especially the "non normie" [young people, specifically] types would have children all together, regardless of financial stability - heck the wealthiest people often have the fewest children.
Not that it matters. Secular fertility isn't something to worry over.
Our government is little more than a business operator exercising express and limited obligations that have been set out in the US Constitution. This business operation has no business being the arbiter or caretaker of our souls. Protection for our autonomous souls is exactly why we needed to amend the Bill of Rights to this document
However incumbent in the protection of our rights, are duties also required from each individual in order to protect those rights. At one time, that was provided by the common "God-fearing culture" shared by the early Founders of this nation. They knew this experiment in self-governance could not exist outside a mutual interplay of rights and duties.
Over time, this shared culture as a "God-fearing nation" has eroded. In its place today is this new cultural proclamation "diversity is our strength". However, that is proving to be a false god. Our current lack of social cohesion is fast becoming our weakest link; not our strength.
Perhaps it is time we amend a Bill of Duties onto our US Constitution. It is at least worthy of discussion - what ten duties are also incumbent upon each of us, so that we may continue to enjoy the blessings of freedom in this country enshrined in our Bill of Rights - which have been endowed by our Creator.
Touche' once again Andy! A nuclear family does not need to be "dominated" by the father; if is a joint venture with the mother and father displaying equal responsibility and lessons, all important to the success of the family, our culture, society and nation.
I really hope the gathering for Charlie Kirk today was focused on a vow of finding truth and justice for Charlie and his family and not yet another excuse to attack the left for an hour.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable Rights..."
The problem that is that many people take the language referring to the "Creator" as meaning the God they understand through their particular religion, and insist that the rules and moral laws of their particular religion must apply to all. That's the theory in Iranian, as well as among certain (but not all) Christian (and other) religious groups.
In the context of the declaration of independence the meaning is clear. You make a great point in opposition to immigration. Especially intellectual rot from Canada.
I take it that in your worldview anybody who doesn't follow your particular system of beliefs is "rot."
No, just not beneficial to the success of the American ecperiment.
I strongly disagree.
Burton, what you wrote is only true to a point. Our concept of government was the child of our Judeo-Christian heritage and Western Civilization. NO OTHER CIVILIZATION/RELIGION could have formed our government establishing the DIVINE rights of mankind. You can't compare our culture, laws, and freedom with Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, or worse, the atheism of communism and socialism. As the founding fathers noted, our form of government was formed for, and only works with, a God-fearing people who are moral and upright, because you CAN'T trust liberty and freedom to people who are not bound by their faith to follow the laws of God and nature.
You equate moral uprightness with Christianity? Our concept of government also has roots in ancient Greece (pagan), Rome (pagan), and was also influenced by the Iroquois confederation. Which is to say, Buddhists, atheists, Hindus, Muslims, and so on can all exist within the secular system of American government.
Liberty can only exist among a virtuous people. https://www.hoover.org/sites/default/files/uploads/documents/0817939628_3.pdf
Who doesn’t share internet intoxication, or the anxiety of GenZ, 13-28 year olds (born 1997 to 2012)? Doing everything right, contributing over and beyond, nowadays does not necessarily result in access to or attainment of the American dream. Young adults seek a fair chance for life satisfaction: to own a home, marry, have a family, participate in community. Is anyone listening to help them create a path around public policy roadblocks? I know many 22-35 year old stellar, responsible, disciplined, hard working, highly educated young women who are totally unlike those described by Evie author Gino Florio: they don’t sleep around, or expect to be taken care of by easy to access CA entitlements. They’re financially literate, know civics, the American way and they seek it!
Where are the like-minded males? Did we distract too many with gaming, or did we diminiship their importance? (I cringed when the Boys Club began allowing girl members, with Girls Inc across the street, not allowing boys. There’s a reason for gender only youth clubs and sports.)
We elders must actively help our youth access to perserve America and Western Civilization. Our roles are important. Public policies and elections require activists, our full participation.
I attended the memorial today for Charlie Kirk held at the SB Courthouse. It was a solemn event, surrounded by peace, love and understanding. Very soul refreshing, reflective and respectful.
So glad to have attended, many thanks to the organizers, SB Republican Committee and of course, the great patriots that showed up and stood up for Charlie!
Good Article…unfortunately, Gen Z was a segment of society hardest hit by the Color Revolution that has rocked Our Nation…young minds with little to no life experiences ripe for indoctrination…Methinks that these young folks will soon be smackeroled, as with others still asleep under the mind spell of our false sense of reality…
https://x.com/charliekirk11/status/1909391943802703899?s=61
Best to Strive to Survive 2025…we’re in for some highly turbulent times, the predictive models are showing highly emotional events beginning the first week of October…be strong, love thy neighbor…
https://x.com/greasethewheelz/status/1955144550676394228?s=61
PS. Gen Alpha, along with a large portion of Gen Z, will be our greatest generations as we transition into our brave new world with new realizations (secrets revealed) & ever increasing new inventions to build The Golden Age…we have been lied to about EVERYTHING, including who we are as humans.
Thanks Andy. Both my kids Gen Zers are very different. My daughter for sure fits some of these points in this article and many of her friends and many young Gen Z women that I know.
On the other hand my son also a Gen Zer has gone back to Church,is more conservative politically and hold traditional values.
Both children raised in the Church,went to private school and raised in a traditional family with traditional values.Stay at home Mom,kids played sports and other activities.
In another article I read it seems Gen Z males are more Conservative and are the group embracing the Church.
I believe that there is definitely an alarming ttend with Gen Z women going away from God and their political ideals becoming more socialist.
I also wonder if it has to do with Vaxed vs Unvaxed.
I don’t share your experience or observation of local GenZ women, most who wisely leave South County Santa Barbara for life and career opportunities. That’s not to deny young female social media validation addiction. As the mom of a GenZ 26-year old all-American daughter, she and her many friends are far from socialists. Rather they’re remarkable, determined women. I’d have thrown in the towel by now, given up, if in their shoes. Imagine their numerous obstacles including employer or school forced COVID vaccinations. Despite countless obstacles these young disciplined women carry on seeking to attain the American dream which includes a husband, family, home in a safe traditional American community.
That's amazing. My daughter a college grad and hard working employed and living on her own does have some of the qualities that your daughter shares but living in another town and graduating from a liberal college has changed her views politically and also turned her away from the Church.
She is though a thoughtful and caring person,a friend to many and has probably lived through some of the most difficult times in the US.
Thanks for reminding me of the special qualities that the Gen Z women have.
The values instilled by parents are within our children surfacing at different times. Nothing is lost. I look at myself at age 16- to gzee, was it 45, after my parents died, that parental teachings and values remembered and put into practice? As a Gerontologist, sociologists/ psychologists seem to be taking this generational stuff to extremes. The younger generations are assets!
That's is so true. I have to also reflect on myself in my 20's vs now and I am a completely different person than I was back then..
Thanks Andy for a very thoughtful article and Zimmerman and Kurth for the same. My understanding of Gen Zers is that they are currently ages 13-28. Why does this group feel this way? Was it the required isolation during COVID? The incredible inflation during the Biden years? Colleges and employers favoring characteristics other than ability or performance? Some combination of these and other factors? Scholars may wish to investigate why the Roaring Twenties followed a pandemic.
I would Say Gen Z era depends on when they are born and which Category they fit in. Same with Boomers and Millenials.
I think the age group they are referring to is 25-44 for the statistics.
Has nothing to do with Covid they were born in the early 2000.
I believe it's definitely social media influence,public school and College Indoctrination.
Our children are influenced by countless outside sources. I kept reminding mine: “You are an ambassador of our family, wherever you go. You take who you are wherever you go the rest of your life. Think before you act.” (Selfishly, I don’t know how I’d cope if ever my child did something horrific. The tolerance thresholds, the coping mechanisms of some parents far exceed mine.)