Honestly with Bari Weiss Why Young People Love Socialism
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Jul 15, 2025 
In a lively discussion, Tyler Cowen, an economist and author, and Kyla Scanlon, a Gen Z writer and educator, dive into the surprising appeal of socialism among young people. They explore the significant victory of socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani in New York and what it says about shifting political ideologies. The conversation touches on factors like wealth inequality, educational influences, and the role of social media in shaping opinions. They also consider the emotional drivers behind this trend and how it reflects broader societal frustrations.
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Emotional Appeal Drives Socialism Interest
- Young voters often support socialist policies more out of emotional dissatisfaction than detailed economic analysis.
- Charismatic figures like Mamdani tap into a desire for change amid perceived systemic failures.
Gender Divides Political Outlooks
- Increasing political polarization mirrors a growing divide in values and worldviews between young men and women.
- Young women tend toward left-wing policies while young men incline toward right-wing populism.
Stagnation Drives Educated Youth Left
- Highly educated young people supporting socialist candidates often face stagnating career and housing prospects.
- Their unmet expectations drive dissatisfaction, contrasting with other income groups who may accept the status quo.