The Importance of Hope in a Changing World

Understanding Gen-Z's Sociological Identity

Let me start this essay by saying one thing: hope is essential. Hope is the foundation of any ideology. Whether you identify as a fascist or an anarcho-communist, hope remains vital. It has the power to de-radicalize individuals. If you are too old to grasp this concept, I am speaking directly to you, Ezra Klein. Please, for the love of God and all that is holy, listen to a younger voice. And allow me to clarify: by the DSM-5's definition, you are considered old. Culture is evolving, whether you want to accept it or not.

The Impact of Trauma

Without reason, we find ourselves lost in a void filled with trauma and existential dread. Generation Z, or "Zoomers" as we refer to them, are digital natives. They have been awash in a sea of perpetual nostalgia since the COVID-19 era began. This period has unraveled numerous contradictions. Liberalism, characterized by an individual critique of society, is often mistaken for a lack of societal connection. As Margaret Thatcher once stated, “There are no such things as society.” This perspective overlooks the true essence of identity—the collective culture that surrounds you.

You cannot separate yourself from your city, friends, lovers, and even your haters. We live in an imperfect world, but you have the power to change that. The pursuit of ethics and reason still exists.

The Search for Identity

Without self-reflection or some level of self-actualization, you may find that your identity feels elusive. You could easily get lost in society's contradictions. However, that doesn't mean you should abandon hope. You can find ways to cope with depression through new ideas and approaches. In fact, I know this to be true because it’s a form of therapy.

Power structures exist because of capital, yes. But that doesn’t mean capital will ultimately destroy us. Aesthetics are significant because humanity matters. If you are open-minded and engaged with the world, you will discover that the "normal" may not align with your perception.

Generational Challenges and Critiques

Zoomers are perceived as doomed, largely due to their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who follow may adopt similar worldviews. Yet, in these challenging times, individuals like Mr. Zohran Mamdani have provided hope for improvement.

It is crucial to emphasize that you should critically evaluate your own thoughts. It’s important to be kind to others, but equally vital to extend that kindness to yourself. Without this balance, you may perceive the world as a much harsher place than it truly is. I don’t believe everyone should arrive at the same conclusions through this reflection. However, if you fail to do so, you might be operating from a self-serving mindset. Ethics are rarely about absolute truths.

Lessons from Philosophy

To quote Plato—hopefully, without sounding too pretentious—“The Olympic victor, I said, ... is ... happy ... a part only of the blessedness which is secured to our citizens.” (The Republic, 200, de Botton.) If you haven't read philosophical texts, that’s okay. You can still lead a fulfilling life without constant validation.

However, you can be wrong. Additionally, there is such a thing as failure in your morals. If you lack a moral compass, you are doing a disservice to yourself.

For those who feel truly lost, please remember: this too shall pass. I have faced feelings of hopelessness before; everyone encounters injustice at some point in their lives. To paraphrase Conclave (2024), "Maybe, I was elected because I exist between the two [gender] absolutes of life." As an aside, I recommend watching that film.

If this advice doesn’t resonate, I’m afraid I can’t offer much else. Just keep in mind that everyone experiences hardships at varying degrees.

Conclusion | Class Consciousness for the Disengaged

You cannot critique life without recognizing that you, yes you, are the focus of this discussion. To narrow the lens back onto myself, I hope to foster feelings of understanding and positivity. Philosophy should not only critique your thoughts; it must also challenge the ideas of others and the societal norms around you.

The study of morality is complex. You may look at the world, see flaws, and still be deemed incorrect by the majority. Do not allow yourself to be bound by the world’s structures; resistance exists within you.

Please, just don’t blow up my bodega. Or, for that matter, don’t rank Cuomo. I understand he's an independent, but just refrain from doing so.