I just read a quite interesting analysis about the post-00 generation and how they perceive life. There’s one point that the article pointed out that made me think for a long time.

People often say that the 00 generation is more knowledgeable, more alert than the previous generation. They are not easily deceived, know how to refuse unreasonable things. But actually, the reason isn’t because they are smarter. It’s simpler than that — they live in a stable society, relatively sluggish compared to their parents.

Let’s compare. What about the 80s-90s generation? They were born when the country was still agricultural, grew up during industrialization, then entered the information society. Three fundamental changes like that. Each time, what they trusted yesterday was attacked today. Honest teachers were fired, private entrepreneurs imprisoned, then it reversed again. This kept shaping and reshaping, until they no longer felt certain about anything.

The 00 generation is different. Since they can remember, house prices have been high, jobs have been stressful, wages haven’t kept up with inflation. These issues are unlikely to change much in the next twenty years. Therefore, the beliefs formed by the 00s when they were young will stay with them for life. They don’t have to go through continuous reshaping like their parents.

What’s the result? The 00 generation doesn’t buy houses because they know they can’t afford it. They accept lying flat because struggling seems pointless. They don’t want to marry because they see the risks outweigh the benefits. These beliefs are correct, but their root isn’t maturity; it’s because the train of the era has slowed down.

But I see something concerning here. Although the 00 generation seems alert, behind it is a different sadness. Because chaos means change, and change means opportunity. In a volatile environment, people feel confused but also find a way to survive. But when everything is stable and sluggish, the 00s remain calm, quiet. Behind that calmness is conservatism, narrow-mindedness, a loss of perception and desire to explore.

What they call “seeing through life,” I see as just a way to win over helplessness. The 00 generation isn’t truly alert; they just choose to give up early.