Could it be that Generation Z is the ‘sensible generation’?
Could it be that the older generations have got it wrong, and Zoomers are emerging as our great hope for a better, balanced and inclusive society?
Gen Z came after the Millennials and before Generation Alpha. It is the group the older ones have got in the habit of wringing their hands about, fearing its members are lost, unable to make conversation and ill-equipped to launch from the family nest.
But new data also shows there is so much to feel hopeful about as this cohort settles into adulthood.
Australian Bureau of Statistics data released last month shows Gen Z – generally accepted as those born between 1997 and 2012 – is not getting married and certainly not having babies.
These are pluses: meaning less divorce and fewer unwanted, uncared-for children.
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The new figures are confirmation that Australia has become truly progressive and our social institutions give individuals the freedom to make decisions for themselves.
Gen Z is less hedonistic, consumes less alcohol and is good at delaying gratification. What is not to love about that?
Sadly, perhaps partly because of the ‘Negative Nancy’ messaging we give them, Zoomers are more likely to have mental illness struggles, be sleep deprived and heavily reliant on technology and have shorter attention spans.
But Gen Z has a strong sense of responsibility towards people and the planet.
Zoomers are environmentally aware, socially conscious and committed to ethical behaviour. They have come of age in a multicultural society and are comfortable engaging with people from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and identities.
They want work/life balance and a fair society and are unwilling to accept the idea that Australia’s future must follow past patterns. Critics sometimes dismiss this as political correctness. A more generous interpretation is that it reflects empathy.
Gen Z understands that a successful society should work for everyone, not just those who have traditionally held power and privilege.
The willingness to challenge unfair norms demonstrates moral conviction. No society was ever advanced by repeating the past. Forward-thinking Gen Z may well be the key to a better future.
Dr Jane Stephens is a UniSC journalism lecturer, media commentator and writer. The views of the author do not reflect those of UniSC.
