Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents—and What They Mean for America's Future

by Jean M. Twenge

Even before COVID, teens were more likely to agree that “When I think about all the terrible things that have been happening, it is hard for me to hold out much hope for the world” and “I often wonder if there is any real purpose to my life in light of the world situation” than at any time in the past five decades. Gen Z is pessimistic about the state of the world and isn’t afraid to say so (see Figure 6.52

Most stunning is this: 4 out of 10 Gen Z’ers believe that the founders of the United States are “better described as villains” than “as heroes.” Somewhere along the line, a significant portion of young adults developed the idea that America’s founders were more evil than good. Fewer than 1 in 10 Silents or Boomers—four to eight times fewer—agree, creating a substantial generation gap.

In a July 2021 poll, only 36% of 18- to 24-year-olds (all Gen Z) said they were “very” or “extremely” proud to be an American. In contrast, 86% of those 65 or older (Boomers and Silents) said they were proud to be American.