Are the generations allied or opposed? Is the cliche of generational conflict legitimate — or false?
These are the questions a national survey, commissioned by Encore.org, sought to answer. The good news is that by far, people of different generations see enormous value in intergenerational relationships, not competition or conflict. In fact, an overwhelming majority of survey respondents link their own sense of purpose in life, as well as their belief in America’s future, to the well-being of future generations.
A new report on the survey, written by Paul Taylor and Scott Keeter, former executive VP and former director of survey research at the Pew Research Center, respectively, showed that:
- Eight in 10 respondents say that making the world a better place for the next generation is an important personal priority.
- Two in three adults of all ages say that demographic trends, including rising longevity, are a potential source of national strength.
- Generational “conflict” was far less of a concern than bridging differences in class, wealth and racial diversity.
Taken together, these findings form a strong foundation for Generation to Generation, Encore.org’s new, five-year campaign to mobilize 1 million adults over 50 to help youth thrive. Read more about intergenerational collaboration in Taylor’s article for AARP, A Generation Gives Back.
To join the campaign or learn more, visit the Generation to Generation website; to read the full report, click here.
Published: November 17, 2016