

Roundtable: The Gen Z Stare, Superman, and Grok
Jul 18, 2025
Dive into the intriguing dynamics of communication, particularly the puzzling 'Gen Z stare' and its implications in social situations. Explore the excitement surrounding the new Superman film that brings a fresh, hopeful take on the iconic hero. The discussion doesn't shy away from controversy, highlighting a chatbot scandal that raises questions about AI ethics. Plus, an exploration of Gen Z's love for trading cards reveals how nostalgia meets modern social interaction in today’s digital age.
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Politeness Matters in Brief Exchanges
- Politeness in brief interactions benefits service workers and society.
- Saying simple things like "I'm good" maintains social decency even if the question is routine.
The Meaning Behind Gen Z Stare
- The Gen Z stare often reflects internal overwhelm rather than intentional rudeness.
- It results from adapting to asynchronous digital communication and real-time social challenges.
Teacher Notes Decreased Social Skills
- A high school teacher observes less interpersonal skill among current students compared to years ago.
- He attributes this partly to children growing up with iPads and blue light exposure affecting brain development.