Young People's Counter-Culture

It seems that human beings are always fascinated by what makes them the people they are, and how their selves are seen by others as well. We are constantly interested in defining ourselves, probably because such definition provides clearer and more stable identities. It is true as well that most people prefer to think of themselves as fully individual. It is natural for most to want to believe that they are unique, no matter what external forces are in play in creating identity. While this is understandable, it is not ever completely the case, simply because the time in which we are born places us into a setting that must greatly influence who we become. In plain terms, generation is an enormous force in shaping how people develop. The culture …show more content…
Taking the example again of the 1960s, many young people defined themselves to a great extent by identifying with the counter-culture of the era. This did not entirely shape them but it was a powerful force, certainly. However, it cannot be known how many other young people of the rebellious generation chose to resist the movements or play no part in them. As noted, this is an effect of generation, but it cannot be seen as one directly defining people because the resistance to it must come from more individual beliefs and traits. On a personal level, and as a 20 year-old, I myself am aware that many people expect me to hold certain beliefs, and be interested in certain things, because of my age. I do share in some of the interests common to my generation, just as I enjoy the advantages of technology my generation has, and no other has had to this extent. At the same time, however, I am not a part of many behaviors and concerns that are identified with my generation, either because they do not interest me or because I do not feel that they are worthwhile. Consequently, my being as an individual is what allows me to make these choices, and this alone refutes that generation has a primary role in shaping who we are. As with my earlier example, resistance to generation-based ideas is still a form of influence, but the resistance more goes to unique thinking and feeling removed from the influence itself. Such reaction, in plain terms, must be