The Bunker – News without the nonsense 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.
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Understanding Gen Z
- Generational attributes are tricky; broad opinions vs. marketing archetypes exist.
- Generalities are discussed, not absolute truths about every individual.
Millennials and the Recession
- Millennials experienced the Great Recession upon entering the workforce, impacting wages long-term.
- This economic hardship shaped millennials' life trajectories, delaying traditional adulthood markers.
Gen Z and COVID-19
- COVID-19 created two distinct Gen Z groups: pre- and post-COVID graduates.
- The pandemic disrupted education, social skills, and trust in institutions, particularly for those in school during that time.