Are Gen Z and Millennials Facing a Rigged System?

Recent polls and studies have highlighted a growing belief among Gen Z and Millennials in the United States that the system is rigged against them. This perception is rooted in various economic, social, and political factors that have created a significant generational divide in America.

Economic Challenges

Young Americans are facing unprecedented economic hurdles:

• The dream of homeownership is increasingly out of reach for many young adults. In 1996, two people working at minimum wage jobs could afford to buy a house in many parts of the country. Today, this scenario is virtually impossible.
• Despite rising costs of living, wages have not kept pace, particularly affecting entry-level positions. Many young professionals struggle to afford rent in major cities, let alone save for a down payment on a home.
• The burden of student loan debt has become a major obstacle for many young Americans trying to start their adult lives.
• Shifting Values and Perspectives

The generational divide extends beyond economics to core values and worldviews:

• A 2022 Pew poll found that 44% of Americans aged 18-29 view socialism favorably, compared to only 40% for capitalism. This contrasts sharply with older generations, where just 28% of seniors hold a positive view of socialism.
• While 75% of the Silent Generation and 67% of Baby Boomers believe the U.S. should take an active part in world affairs, only 50% of Millennials and Gen Z share this view.
• American Exceptionalism: 72% of the Silent Generation and 65% of Boomers believe the United States is the greatest country in the world. In contrast, 59% of Millennials and 65% of Gen Z say the U.S. is no greater than other countries.
• Gen Z is significantly less likely than Baby Boomers to prioritize patriotism, belief in God, or having children.

Institutional Distrust

Young Americans are losing faith in traditional institutions:

• Millennials and Gen Z are twice as likely as older Americans to identify as political independents, indicating a shift away from the two-party system.
• Many young people feel that the current economic system benefits the wealthy at the expense of everyone else.
• The rise of social media and alternative news sources has led to increased skepticism towards traditional media outlets.

Implications for the Future

This generational divide has significant implications for America’s future:

• As younger generations gain more political influence, there may be a push for more progressive policies and a reevaluation of America’s role on the global stage.
• he growing dissatisfaction with current economic structures could lead to demands for significant reforms in areas such as housing policy, education funding, and wealth distribution.
• The evolving values of younger generations may accelerate social changes in areas such as religious affiliation, family structures, and national identity.
• As Millennials and Gen Z become a larger part of the workforce, companies may need to adapt their practices to attract and retain young talent.

As America moves further into the 2020s, addressing this perceived rigged system will be crucial for maintaining social cohesion and ensuring economic opportunity for all generations. Political leaders, businesses, and institutions will need to find ways to bridge the generational divide and create policies that resonate across age groups to build a more equitable future for all Americans.

Stay Connected

Unlock impactful advertising opportunities with Bolanle Media. Our expert team crafts immersive experiences that captivate audiences, driving brand engagement and memorability. Let’s elevate your brand’s marketing strategy together.