The Bunker
Why everything you know about Gen Z is wrong
Mar 12, 2025
Sean Monahan, a trend forecaster and co-founder of CAHO, dives deep into the surprising political shift of Gen Z. He discusses how historical events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2008 recession shaped Gen Z's views, leading to a pragmatic approach to politics. Monahan articulates the generational shift from progressive ideals to more conservative values and how economic challenges are driving their decisions. Through real insights, he aims to debunk common myths about Gen Z, shedding light on what truly defines this complex generation.
31:35
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Quick takeaways
- Gen Z's political shift to the right is influenced by dissatisfaction with the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic instability.
- The generation's evolving political identity reflects a pragmatic approach to contemporary issues rather than adherence to traditional political ideals.
Deep dives
Understanding Gen Z's Generational Identity
Gen Z is often defined as the generation following millennials, typically encompassing individuals born from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. Their understanding includes common attributes and characteristics, heavily discussed by both demographers and marketers. While some view generations as mere social constructs, the historical context of events influencing their formation, such as economic downturns, plays a significant role in shaping their societal perspectives. The generational narrative challenges the oversimplification of Gen Z as solely progressive or conservative, acknowledging the complexities of their evolving political alignment.
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