Citizens of the World: Political Engagement and Policy Attitudes of Millennials across the Globe

The Millennial Generation, born between the early 1980s and late 1990s, is the most educated, digitally connected, and globalized in history. They have experienced high rates of unemployment and underemployment, making them the first generation in the modern era to have higher rates of poverty than their predecessors. Citizens of the World examines the Millennial Generation from a comparative perspective, providing insight into how generational differences in political attitudes and behaviors transcend cultures and borders. It finds that Millennials have developed a global identity that distinguishes them from older adults and fuels their policy attitudes and willingness to engage in the political world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The Millennial Generation, born between the early 1980s and the late 1990s, is a remarkable cohort that has shaped the world in unprecedented ways. With a population of 1.8 billion, representing a quarter of the global population, this generation is poised to become the dominant force in politics, economics, and social leadership. Millennials have grown up in a world that has witnessed the devastating impact of terrorism, the ongoing war on terror, the rapid proliferation of the internet and smartphones, and the growing interconnectedness of people across the globe.

In many countries, Millennials' early adulthood has been characterized by high rates of unemployment and underemployment, surpassing those of their parents and grandparents. This has led to higher rates of poverty than their predecessors at the same age, making them the first generation in the modern era to face such challenges.

These factors provide a unique opportunity to explore how Millennial attitudes differ across different cultures, political settings, and economic circumstances. Citizens of the World, a comprehensive book that examines the Millennial Generation from a comparative perspective, seeks to provide insight into the degree to which generational differences in political attitudes and behaviors transcend cultures and borders.

The book delves into Millennial attitudes towards family life, gender roles, institutions, politics, religion, lifestyle, and the future, aiming to understand how governance will evolve under this generation and the extent of their influence in various countries. One of the key findings of this research is that Millennials have developed a global identity that sets them apart from older adults. Drawing on data from Australia, Chile, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the book highlights the similarities and differences in Millennial perspectives across different regions.

Millennials are known for their digital literacy and technological savvy, and their attitudes towards these aspects of life reflect their upbringing. They are more likely to embrace new technologies, such as social media and online platforms, as tools for communication and social change. They are also more likely to prioritize sustainability and environmental concerns, and are more likely to support policies that promote social justice and equality.

However, Millennials also face unique challenges that set them apart from previous generations. They have grown up in a time of economic uncertainty and instability, and many are grappling with the impact of student debt, job insecurity, and the rising cost of living. This has led to a sense of anxiety and uncertainty about the future, and has influenced their political attitudes and behaviors.

The book also explores the impact of social media and technology on Millennial political engagement. While these platforms have provided a means for young people to connect and organize, they have also been criticized for promoting polarization and echo chambers. Millennials are more likely to be politically engaged, but they are also more likely to be influenced by social media algorithms and news outlets that reinforce their existing beliefs.

In conclusion, the Millennial Generation is a transformative force that has the potential to shape the world in profound ways. Their global identity, digital literacy, and environmental consciousness set them apart from previous generations, and their attitudes towards family life, gender roles, institutions, politics, religion, lifestyle, and the future will have a significant impact on governance and social change. Citizens of the World provides valuable insights into the degree to which generational differences in political attitudes and behaviors transcend cultures and borders, and offers a roadmap for understanding and engaging with this influential cohort.

Weight: 202g
Dimension: 210 x 140 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197599389