Economic policies benefiting older, asset-owning generations at the expense of younger ones are reshaping politics. The traditional left-right divide is becoming less relevant than the conflict between classes, which is highly correlated with age, creating unusual political alliances between formerly opposed groups.
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Current fiscal policies represent a massive wealth transfer from young to old. Framing national service as a direct, large-scale investment in youth counteracts this economic imbalance, shifting national priorities and resources back to the next generation, effectively fighting a 'generational war' through policy.
When the economic system, particularly the housing market, makes it impossible for the youth to get ahead, it guarantees the rise of populism. Desperation leads them to vote for any promise of change, however destructive, such as socialist policies that ultimately collapse the economy.
The historic gap between Republican and Democratic pride in America reflects a "K-shaped" economy. A soaring stock market benefits a concentrated few, exacerbating wealth inequality and breaking the social contract. This disconnect between headline market performance and the economic reality for most citizens fuels political division.
As homeownership becomes unattainable without generational wealth, social mobility is stalling. The growing gap between asset owners and renters is calcifying, transforming the American economic structure from a meritocracy into a caste-like system where your financial starting point determines your destiny.
Boomers control traditional, low-volatility assets (housing, stocks, bonds), making it impossible for younger generations to catch up via conventional means. High-volatility frontier assets like crypto represent the only viable path to meaningful wealth creation, transforming crypto into a critical political issue for attracting younger voters.
The inability for young people to afford assets like housing creates massive inequality and fear. This economic desperation makes them susceptible to populist leaders who redirect their anger towards political opponents, ultimately sparking violence.
A deep distrust of the bipartisan "neoliberal consensus" has made many young people receptive to any counter-narrative, whether from the left or right. This creates a powerful anti-establishment bloc that finds common ground in opposing the status quo, explaining the crossover appeal of populist figures.
Unlike previous generations engaged in culture wars, Gen Z's primary political motivation is economic stability. They are less interested in ideological battles and more focused on tangible issues like homeownership, affordability, and securing a financial future.
As governments print money, asset values rise while wages stagnate, dramatically increasing wealth inequality. This economic divergence is the primary source of the bitterness, anxiety, and societal infighting that manifests as extreme political polarization. The problem is economic at its core.
Political alignment is becoming secondary to economic frustration. Voters are responding to candidates who address rising costs, creating unpredictable alliances and fracturing established bases. This dynamic is swamping traditional ideology, forcing both parties to scramble for a new populist message centered on financial well-being.
