Lecture Notes on Gen Z and the Concept of "Being Delusional"

Introduction

• Social media allows ideas to spread rapidly, but our attention spans are diminishing.
• Ideas that go viral can take various forms, such as trends, social causes, or new terminology.

Key Terms

• Going Viral: Ideas or trends that spread quickly and widely.
• Delusional (Gen Z context): Dreaming big and defying limits, not letting reality hold you back.
• Generation Z (Gen Z): Born between 1997 and 2012, ages 12 to 27, known as digital natives.

Characteristics of Gen Z

• Practicality: Acknowledgment of global issues (e.g., climate change, economic insecurity) leading to realistic decision-making.
• Social Awareness: Deep care for others, striving for diversity, collaboration, and authenticity.

The Dichotomy of "Being Delusional"

• Positive Perspective: Encouragement to dream big and escape harsh realities.
• Negative Perspective: Delusions can indicate mental health issues; considered a pathology.
• Cognitive Dissonance: Tension between positive self-identity and negative mental health implications.

Debate on Terminology

• Questioning Usage: Why use the term "delusional" instead of more positive terms like "confidence" or "self-efficacy"?
• Child Development Analogy: Assimilation in children; the need for clear distinctions in language as one matures.

The Role of Circumstances

• Gen Z faces unique challenges: high costs of living, inflation, and cultural expectations.
• This leads to a collective sense of dread and a desire to escape reality through hopes and dreams.

Collective Change

• The need for societal shifts to create an environment that fosters hope rather than resignation.
• Quote: "It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted in a profoundly sick society." - Sinead O'Connor

Importance of Community and Support

• Emphasis on rebuilding communities post-pandemic to regain faith in the future.
• Individual efforts are insufficient; collective action is necessary for meaningful change.

Conclusion

• Distinguishing between delusion and hope:
  • Delusion: No amount of effort yields results.
  • Hope: Involves courage and belief in a better future.
• Gen Z's optimism and desire for change should not be stigmatized as mere delusion.
• The importance of fostering a community that supports hope and dreams.