For at least a decade, Millennials have been stereotyped as lazy

"For at least a decade, Millennials have been stereotyped as lazy, entitled, and stuck on social media. While that may not be entirely fair, they are notoriously liberal, overwhelmingly supporting left-leaning candidates and favoring policies like nationalized healthcare and same-sex 'marriage.'" These words from Eric Metaxas are an invocation of the tension between perception and reality, particularly when it comes to the Millennial generation. Metaxas points out that while Millennials have often been painted with a broad brush of entitlement and passivity, their political views, especially their overwhelming support for progressive causes, reflect a much deeper shift in societal values. At the heart of his statement is the suggestion that these individuals, often misjudged, are deeply engaged in the shaping of society’s future—even if it means challenging long-held traditions and systems.

In the ancient world, it was not uncommon for generations to criticize their successors. The elder generation would often view the youth with suspicion, labeling them as rebellious or disrespectful. Consider the Greek philosopher Socrates, who was seen by his contemporaries as a corrupting influence on the youth of Athens. Socrates’ ideas challenged traditional views on authority, morality, and society, leading to his execution in 399 BCE. In his defense, Socrates argued that questioning the established norms was the very foundation of a thriving, just society. Much like Socrates, Millennials are often criticized for their challenging of authority and their push for progressive reforms. Yet, the wisdom of Socrates suggests that it is not necessarily the questioning of tradition that is wrong, but the failure to listen to new ideas that often marks the true danger to society.

Just as Socrates found that the old generation misunderstood the youth, the Millennials of today are misunderstood in their desire for change. Their advocacy for nationalized healthcare, same-sex marriage, and other liberal policies reveals not an inherent laziness or entitlement, as the stereotype suggests, but a commitment to a more inclusive and equitable society. These values are deeply rooted in the same principles that have shaped movements for human rights throughout history. Martin Luther King Jr., for example, led the Civil Rights Movement not just for racial equality, but for a society where justice could be extended to all—whether based on race, gender, or sexuality. Like King’s advocacy, Millennials seek to broaden the circle of inclusion, fighting for healthcare for all and the right for same-sex couples to marry.

Millennials have often been accused of being distracted by social media, yet their use of these platforms is not a symbol of disengagement, but of active participation. In the modern age, social media has become a powerful tool for advocacy, mobilization, and communication—tools that were unavailable to previous generations. The Arab Spring of 2011 is a prime example of how social media can be used to mobilize large groups of people to challenge oppressive regimes. The revolution was not fought with weapons, but with tweets, posts, and viral videos. In much the same way, Millennials use social media to advocate for their beliefs in equality, justice, and human rights, proving that they are far from passive; rather, they are active agents of change in the modern world.

Historically, every generation has had its critics. The Victorian generation, for example, was heavily critiqued for its focus on materialism and moral rigidity, yet it also gave rise to profound social changes, including the abolition of slavery and the expansion of women's rights. The Baby Boomers were similarly criticized for their revolutionary ideals, yet it was their efforts that brought about significant progress in civil rights, environmental protection, and social justice. In each of these examples, the criticisms of the older generation often missed the broader vision of the younger generation—a vision that was more inclusive, compassionate, and progressive than the society they inherited.

The lesson we must draw from Metaxas’ quote and the example of past generations is clear: progress often comes from those who are misunderstood by the generation that came before them. While older generations may see the Millennial generation’s values and politics as a departure from the norm, we must recognize that these very changes often point to a more just and equitable society. The Millennials' support for same-sex marriage and universal healthcare is not a sign of entitlement, but of their belief in human dignity—a belief that echoes the human rights movements of the 20th century.

As future generations continue to shape the world, it is crucial that we, too, learn to listen and learn from those who come after us. The world evolves when we embrace change, not with fear or resistance, but with an open heart and mind. Millennials, despite their flaws and the misconceptions that surround them, are a vital part of this evolving narrative. Their call for equality, justice, and inclusion should be seen as the heralding of a brighter future, where the right to health, love, and fair treatment are not privileges, but universal rights that every person, regardless of their identity, can claim.

So, future generations, remember this: progress is often misunderstood by those who are not yet ready to see the world change. Yet, it is in the challenges posed by younger generations—whether in their political ideologies, technological innovations, or social movements—that the seeds for a better tomorrow are sown. Do not shy away from change or the discomfort that comes with it. Embrace the diversity of thought and the ideals of each new generation, for it is their vision that will continue the work of building a more inclusive and just society for all.