134: Are we too cynical? Helping our kids see hope in a world of cynicism.
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Twenty years ago The Times asked young people in Britain a series of questions. The new Millenials gave answers which showed that the majority thought the UK was forward-looking and tolerant; they were proud to be British.
This year that same survey - this time asking Gen Z - has brought in radically different results.
48 per cent thought that Britain is a racist country, compared with 36 per cent who did not, and only 11 per cent said they would fight for Britain. In fact, 41 per cent said there were no circumstances in which they would take up arms for their country
This caught my eye, because I've been reading about the sharp rise in cynicism across many societies. What's particularly fascinating is that the opinions of people, when asked in research aimed at trying to understand cynicism, seem to be far less extreme and more peaceful, than we generally believe them to be.
So the question is, are we too cynical, and what can we parents do to help our kids feel more hope about the intentions of others and the world in general?
It's a very tricky subject, with lots of opportunities to offend, so do try to listen to the episode with the spirit in which it is intended.
The Times poll:
https://www.thetimes.com/uk/society/article/generation-z-survey-young-people-britain-ld076s8qr
Books referenced:
Hope for Cynics by Dr Jamil Zaki
Cynical Theories: How Activist Scholarship Made Everything about Race, Gender, and Identity--And Why This Harms Everybody by Helen Pluckrose and James Lindsay
Useful episodes for blended families with a newborn:
https://www.teenagersuntangled.com/1-your-parenting-toolbox-and-tidy-teen-rooms-rummaging-in-your-toolbox-and-how-you-get-your-teena/
https://www.teenagersuntangled.com/differing-parenting-styles-and-future-careers-parenting-together-when-you-cant-agree-on-a-parenti/
https://www.teenagersuntangled.com/manners-parenting-to-help-teens-succeed-in-life-by-teaching-the-importance-of-good-manners/
https://www.teenagersuntangled.com/29-step-children-coping-and-thriving-with-a-blended-family/
https://www.teenagersuntangled.com/123-avoid-parenting-burnout-and-troublesome-chore-charts-with-this-simple-method-an-interview-with/
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