From Ideology to Identity: The Changing Face of Democratic Engagement.
The rise of Generation Z (Gen Z)—those born between 1997 and 2012—marks a paradigm shift in global democratic engagement. Unlike previous generations characterized by structured ideological movements, Gen Z’s political subjectivity is rooted in a unique blend of radical individualism and episodic activism.
Key Characteristics of Gen Z Engagement
* The Personal is Political: For Gen Z, political expression is deeply tied to personal conduct and identity. They prioritize lived experiences over abstract ideologies, resisting traditional hierarchies and "moral preaching."
* Episodic and Leaderless Protests: Movements in Bangladesh (2024) and Nepal (2025) demonstrate a preference for sporadic, decentralized, and virtual-first mobilizations. Unlike the sustained leadership of the 2020-24 farmers’ protests, Gen Z movements often "fizzle out" quickly but leave a profound impact on institutional accountability.
* Mental Health and Insecurity: This generation is defined by an "uncanny combination of confidence and anxiety." They are more open about mental health and "mental despair," often fueled by toxic workplaces and economic precarity.
* Market-Driven Secularism: Access to technology and global markets has made Gen Z more secular. Consumption patterns and information access are now greater sources of dignity than traditional ascriptive identities like caste or religion.
Challenges for the Future
While Gen Z offers hope against authoritarianism, their engagement is often fragmented. The shift toward virtual platforms can lead to hyper-nationalism and the propagation of "empty rhetoric" about future possibilities. For the UPSC aspirant, understanding this shift is crucial for analyzing modern governance, social justice, and the evolving nature of the Indian polity.
Source the hindu