Why Are Young People So Enthusiastic About Capitalism and Technology in Modern Society?

Modern society is often a perplexing landscape for those who study human behavior and social structures. Young people today are clearly enthusiastic about the roles of capitalism and technology, but their engagement with these systems may differ significantly from older generations. Martin Nowak, a mathematical biologist, provides an insightful explanation regarding the impact of social interaction modes on cooperation and trust. He notes that in a fluid population, where most interactions are anonymous, indirect reciprocity struggles to thrive. In contrast, a socially viscous population, where people know and trust each other, enables indirect reciprocity to flourish.

The Fluidity of Modern Society

Our current society is highly fluid, a stark contrast to the pre-agricultural societies that were more viscous. This fluidity impacts our social interactions and cooperation. While social media platforms like Facebook might feel like a modern version of browsing products in a supermarket, it lacks the depth and richness of personal interactions that characterized pre-agricultural societies.

Many have observed that modern society is of lower quality in terms of social interaction. Before the fall of the Eastern Bloc, people in Eastern Bloc countries often didn't lock their doors, indicating a higher level of trust and social cohesion. After 1989, this social fabric began to fray, and many have noted the decline in communal trust.

For young people, the challenge of technology is to recreate or simulate the social environment that we are best adapted to, without sacrificing our freedom and creature comforts. Technology, therefore, is both a solution and a problem. While it undoubtedly enriches our lives through advancements in computing, communication, and convenience, it also raises questions about whether it can truly replicate the depth of human connection.

The Role of Liberal Democracy

The solution, some argue, lies not in political systems but in liberal democracy. This system provides a framework within which capitalism and technology can flourish. Many young people may be discovering this for themselves and are increasingly attracted to liberalism. In essence, they see capitalism and technology as tools for bringing people closer together, albeit in new and digital forms.

The Case of Spanish Youth and Technological Awareness

The increasing use of technology by Spanish youth provides a compelling illustration of the current generational attitude towards technology. Despite their enthusiastic engagement with these tools, their level of awareness regarding the underlying economic and social systems is often limited. This suggests a disconnect between the abstract concepts of capitalism and technology and their practical applications in everyday life.

However, it is important to note that young people do have doubts and questions. Their enthusiasm is not blind, but rather fueled by a critical awareness of the benefits and limitations of technology and capitalism. They recognize that advancements in these areas have brought about significant changes in the way we live, work, and interact.

The Positive Impact of Technology and Capitalism

One of the most tangible benefits of technology and capitalism is the increased leisure time available to the average worker. Decades ago, cleaning and washing clothes were vastly more time-consuming and laborious. Thanks to technological advancements, these tasks now take a fraction of the time and effort they previously required. Similarly, the prices of appliances and clothes have significantly decreased, making life easier and more affordable.

Advancements in communication technology have also brought about a range of new working solutions. With the rise of smartphones and various apps, more flexible and remote working arrangements have become possible, significantly altering the landscape of employment. All of these developments have been driven by entrepreneurship and capitalism, and the resulting positive impact on everyday life is indisputable.

Ultimately, the enthusiasm of young people for capitalism and technology is not a contradiction but a natural response to the profound changes these systems bring. They recognize that while these systems have transformative power, they also present challenges that need to be addressed. In this way, technology and capitalism are both the problem and the solution, offering new ways to connect and innovate while also raising important questions about human interaction and social cohesion in the modern world.