Experts emphasize that Generation Z, consisting of individuals born between 1998 and 2010 and currently aged between 15 and 27, stands out with their strong attachment to freedom. They highlight that this generation, unafraid to express their thoughts openly, plays an active role in social debates and digital platforms, positioning themselves as a generation with the potential to shape public discourse.
Asst. Prof. Özgün Arda Kuş notes that Generation Z openly expresses their thoughts on political, economic, and social issues: “They have a strong sense of humor. Sometimes they express their concerns and demands directly, other times they make people reflect, and often they use humor. This is a generation willing to take action. They can organize quickly and effectively through social media.”
Asst. Prof. Özgün Arda Kuş from Üsküdar University, Faculty of Communication, Department of Public Relations and Publicity, evaluated the psychological, sociological, and cultural traits of Generation Z, one of the most talked-about topics today, along with their current presence in public life and their potential future influence.
Not as introverted as claimed!
Dr. Kuş points out that every generation is influenced by the societal events and technological developments of their time: “Although not always, generations are generally defined by birth years. Each generation is shaped by the social events and technological advancements they experience. Generation Z is often described as more introverted than other generations, with weaker social skills and higher stress levels. However, when it comes to expressing their thoughts, they are not as introverted as studies claim. They are attached to their freedoms and are not hesitant to express it. Like all generations, they are influenced by the geography, society, politics, and economy they live in. They are deeply tied to technology because they were born into it. Being exposed to numerous messages as a result of modern life has sharpened their critical thinking skills.”
Why is Generation Z so influential?
“Younger generations have always had high energy,” says Dr. Kuş.
“Today’s youth consists of those born between 1998 and 2010, according to common classification (although some sources propose different date ranges). So, Generation Z currently ranges in age from 15 to 27. Their strong passion for freedom makes them unafraid to speak up, and those who voice their opinions are always more likely to shape public agendas.”
The most digitally literate generation
Dr. Kuş states that Generation Z is the most knowledgeable when it comes to digital literacy:
“They are highly skilled in digital environments because they were born into a world of technology and have experienced many technological developments firsthand. Their accumulated digital knowledge and their openness in self-expression ensure that their voices are heard. Despite their young age, they have strong potential to influence large audiences. Their ability to articulate demands and follow through makes them active in all spheres of life.”
A strong sense of humor...
Speaking on how social media affects the mindset and activism of Generation Z, Dr. Kuş explains: “This needs to be evaluated in two parts. Generation Z is not afraid to express their thoughts. They speak openly on political, economic, and societal issues. They also possess a strong sense of humor. Sometimes they express their ideas directly, sometimes they encourage reflection, and sometimes they use humor to express their concerns. Not every thought necessarily leads to action, that is human nature. But this is a generation that wants to act. They can organize quickly through social media. Sometimes this results in expression only, and other times it leads to concrete action.”
They fulfill their responsibilities and honor their values
Reiterating that Generation Z values their freedom deeply, Dr. Kuş continues:
“They do not need to have their freedoms restricted to speak up. If they perceive injustice or wrongdoing, they are quick to voice their opinions. We’re talking about a group that stands for justice and fairness. Some say this generation is detached from tradition, while others say they’re connected. One thing we must not overlook is that traditions evolve over time. No one today lives by the traditions of three centuries ago. Change is essential for growth. Therefore, I do not consider Generation Z disconnected from tradition. Everyone must adapt to the needs of their era. Generation Z is fulfilling their responsibilities and holding onto their core values.”
They learn first and react first!
Dr. Kuş believes that Generation Z will soon play an active role in politics and shape the future of political discourse: “Although they may seem uninterested in politics, most of them have political leanings. They express these thoughts respectfully when engaged in dialogue. They do not hesitate to comment on social issues. In today is world, information about social events spreads rapidly through digital channels. Generation Z is the most active user of these platforms. That is why they’re the first to learn, and the first to respond. Their responsiveness will shape the future of the economy, politics, and society over the next 10 years.”
There is no field where generation z is not influential
“There is no area where Generation Z lacks influence,” Dr. Kuş states: “They all play active roles in one or more areas depending on their interests. Since they were born into technology and use it actively, they have a wide sphere of influence in this common area.”
A generation that will develop a strong sense of belonging in adulthood
Dr. Kuş concludes that while Generation Z is often described as lacking responsibility, one must not forget that they are still young, and being young means having fewer responsibilities:
“But this does not make them irresponsible. Based on my observations as a university instructor, I believe most have a strong sense of responsibility. Some have already taken on responsibilities due to life circumstances, while others are still waiting for their time. It is not accurate to say that a generation that stands against injustice and wrongdoing lacks a sense of belonging. We are talking about a generation that is willing to act to correct what’s wrong. If I were to make a prediction for the future, I would say that Generation Z will grow into adulthood with a strong sense of social belonging and a readiness to take responsibility.”
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)