Generation Gap
By Grace Larson | Opinions | Jan. 31, 2025
In recent years, the cultural contrast between generations has grown sharper, sparking debate amongst them. As this discourse grows more heated, it is important to understand there are both similarities and differences between each group. Rather than making these disparities a point of divergence, people should honor them by learning about what makes each generation unique.
The individuality of each age group is based on the historical differences that define them. Baby Boomers, or those born between 1946 and 1964, are largely defined by the post-World War II and Great Depression era. Their connection to this historic event contributes to the separation they feel from younger populations, like Generation Z. Unlike Baby Boomers, these individuals, born between 1981 and 2012, are categorized by the exponential growth of technology and social media–a drastic change from older generations’ challenging childhoods.
These differences in upbringing have created a generational gap, which refers to the divergence in thought between each generation. In 2024, Pew Research Center recorded that 79% of the public believed there to be a generational gap. This is up 20% from the results recorded by CBS and The New York Times in 1979. This increase can likely be attributed to cultural distinctions that have furthered the divide between different age groups.
Apart from historical differences, generations may also feel defined by a unique set of fads that characterized their upbringing. Minor stylistic trends, like skinny jeans, low-rise clothing, and hair parts, have sparked a series of debates over differences in culture. With such discussions occurring on social media, it has become increasingly evident these platforms further the divide between generations. By offering a space for such discussion and the portrayal of each generational stereotype, social media has worsened the discrepancies amongst different age groups.
This lack of empathy is apparent in the frequent argument over which generation had a superior childhood. The subjective perspective shared by these individuals who wish to claim superiority over other generations is rooted in nostalgia. This feeling connects all generations, as they reminisce on key features of their childhood, like TV shows, movies, and music.
Their attachment to such media should not be a means to foster unfriendly discourse, but instead be used as an opportunity to learn more about each other. Younger age groups can study the past, while older ones can become more in-tune with the present. Instead of capitalizing on the opportunity to separate themselves, people should take advantage of the chance to learn from these disparities and adopt a more accepting perspective. This would allow generations to see past surface level differences, like slang, cellphone use, and clothing trends, to better understand one another.
Apart from being separated by minor distinctions, each generation is connected by an array of commonalities, part of which comes from their determination to separate themselves from the past to better establish a unique identity. This desire to stand out and create a difference in the world is something shared by each generation. Rather than using it to spark hatred, the wish for change should foster a sense of community. All generations can relate to this desire, offering a common bond between these rather dissimilar age groups.
By focusing on this desire to separate themselves from the past and the stereotypes that define them, these individuals can work towards fostering a more united world. Learning about the experiences and unique traits of other age groups can allow for a world based on understanding. This can lessen the generational gap that separates today’s population, replacing it with a world based on acceptance.