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
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.)
On a bright note, in a devastating week, anyone who paid attention to Charlie Kirk knew that his passion was encouraging young people to get married and have children. He encouraged young men to learn a skill, find a wife, and set up a household, where she did not have to work for some business. This resonated with the very young people who are now heading back to church and wondering if it is insane to borrow a crushing debt to spend four years in Marxist indoctrination known as going to college. The blue hair nose ring liberated types are busy getting useless degrees and going into debt to prepare them for a career as Marxist baristas, who scorn those showing up in the thousands to grieve the loss of Charlie. One of their own represented them to silence him. They failed to see that his martyrdom would be the ignition of a firestorm. Stay tuned. God is not mocked.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.)
On a bright note, in a devastating week, anyone who paid attention to Charlie Kirk knew that his passion was encouraging young people to get married and have children. He encouraged young men to learn a skill, find a wife, and set up a household, where she did not have to work for some business. This resonated with the very young people who are now heading back to church and wondering if it is insane to borrow a crushing debt to spend four years in Marxist indoctrination known as going to college. The blue hair nose ring liberated types are busy getting useless degrees and going into debt to prepare them for a career as Marxist baristas, who scorn those showing up in the thousands to grieve the loss of Charlie. One of their own represented them to silence him. They failed to see that his martyrdom would be the ignition of a firestorm. Stay tuned. God is not mocked.
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.