Active participant: Ethics and logic help Gen Z better comprehend their role in society. — 123rf.com
Gen Z stands apart in exploring what gives relationships depth, what defines the purpose of work, and how social norms shape everyday life. These reflections are a natural part of our development as social beings.
This generation distinguishes itself through its willingness to voice these reflections openly. In contrast, many older generations have grown accustomed or resigned to the circumstances of their lives, making such openness feel unsettling. Yet responding to these reflections is important, for it reignites the curiosity many of us quietly lose as we age.
Philosophy has long been a discipline uniquely suited to guiding us through this search for meaning. Far from being a purely theoretical pursuit, philosophy helps us remain curious, ask deeper questions and think critically.
Critical thinking is not radical scepticism; it is the ability to weigh perspectives, consider competing factors, and resist the temptation of quick, one-size-fits-all answers. In a diverse society like Malaysia, this ability does more than strengthen individual reasoning; it supports social cohesion and a more thoughtful, flourishing community.
Studies show that 58% of Gen Z young adults, representing different races and social groups, report struggling to find purpose in their lives. While psychological support is important, Gen Z also needs tools to chart their place in the social world. This requires a clearer understanding of how society works and the ability to set goals aligned with one’s moral values.
Philosophy provides these practical tools. Logic, one of its foundational pillars, helps Gen Z understand the role of reason in shaping social relationships and institutions. It reduces anxiety by offering clarity, enabling young people to assess claims, communicate clearly, and distinguish between reliable and misleading information. These skills are increasingly essential in today’s post-truth environment, where misinformation spreads quickly and public trust is easily shaken.
Ethics is equally important. It allows us to examine our choices and actions, helping us balance personal interests with the needs of our community. Ethics strengthens self-understanding, aligning with what 92% of Gen Z say they value most: authenticity and being true to themselves. Ethical thinking also helps distinguish between beneficial and harmful actions, offering frameworks to navigate complex issues such as technological disruption, environmental challenges and social polarisation.
When combined, ethics and logic help Gen Z better comprehend their role in society. They are not passive observers but active participants capable of shaping their future while contributing to the development of the norms and structures that govern daily life. This understanding fosters belonging and the satisfaction that comes from doing meaningful work for themselves and for others.
Philosophy is not merely a search for meaning in isolation. It becomes most powerful when applied to real-life contexts. Rather than dismissing Gen Z’s concerns as signs of immaturity or entitlement, we should equip them with the intellectual tools needed to navigate the world they are inheriting.
Philosophy works hand in hand with economics, political science and law. Together, these disciplines help students develop analytical, critical and interpersonal skills. Such skills are increasingly valued across industries, from technology firms and policy think tanks to startups, non-governmental organisations, and public service.
Supporting Gen Z requires us to rethink our assumptions. Philosophy is not an abstract luxury, and Gen Z is not a lost generation. When taken seriously, both show that asking meaningful questions is the first step towards building a stable and sustainable, forward-looking society.
Dr Alexey Zhavoronkov is a senior lecturer in the Bachelor of Philosophy, Politics and Economics (Honours) programme at the School of Law and Governance, Faculty of Business and Law, Taylor’s University. The views expressed here are the writer’s own.
