A Rhetorical Analysis Of The New Greatest Generation By Joel Stein

In his controversial 2013 article, “The New Greatest Generation” Joel Stein proposes that the Millennial Generation unlike their predecessors have become extremely narcissistic, entitled, and disconnected from humanity, amongst other things. For example, Stein writes, “Not only do Millennials lack the kind of empathy that allows them to feel concerned for others, but they also have trouble even intellectually understanding others' points of view.” (para 9). Subsequently, this quote comes in light of accusations that the increase of narcissistic behavior is due to the world of technology and globalization.
Stein’s suggestion to his audience is that the current generation's life is lived primarily through a screen and this “isolated” lifestyle keeps them from being able to fully grasp a world outside of their own. Nevertheless, the majority of this article explores how the advancement of technologies has caused a new world to come forth. However, the implication set by Stein is that this new world isn’t one of quality. Stein believes that this modern day shift has resulted in a less humane generation, one that is also less engaged
On account of my own experiences (Yes, I know personal experience doesn’t trump truths) within the Millennial generation. This generation sings a song that is of a different tune than the one “The Newest Greatest Generation” suggests. When reflecting on where my peers are and are headed, I see a generation that is filled with persons of high character, creativity, and open mindedness. Not to say this isn’t a generation without flaws, as we have many, but unlike Stein, I wouldn’t hesitate to label this generation as altruistic, full of fervor, and philanthropy. As a reader it was difficult for me to believe the “truths” of this article, and easy for me to accept this as another case of social ageism, the “us vs them”