Arbeitsmarkt: Jugendforscher Albert: „Ich würde die Gen Z als ‚lost generation‘ bezeichnen“

Mathias Albert, the author of the Shell-Jugendstudie, has expressed concern over the new generation of young people, Gen Z, describing them as "lost" due to the numerous upheavals they've experienced, including the pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the impending impact of artificial intelligence on the job market. Albert asserts that Gen Z is not just anxious but also directionless, even going as far as to call them a "lost generation," a phrase he finds rather bleak.

Albert is uncertain about the future developments of the job market with AI, and neither is he in a position to see a widespread collective depression among the younger generation. However, he notes that those with intermediate education or vocational training are less likely to be affected, as AI is unlikely to take over manual labor jobs such as roofing or plumbing.

On the other hand, those with higher education and qualifications may find their degrees becoming obsolete, particularly in areas like computer science and law, leaving them uncertain about their future careers and employment prospects. This uncertainty has led to a worrying increase in apathy, polarization, and a sense of directionlessness among Gen Z.

Albert suggests that this new wave of uncertainty could have significant implications for society and democracy. If a significant number of highly educated young people start losing jobs due to AI, we might be witnessing a new, dangerous phenomenon with political ramifications. Populist parties could exploit these fears, as younger voters tend to lean towards the political extremes, with young men often opting for right-wing parties and young women for left-wing parties.