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Consumption or Happiness in Uncertain Times

Published: October 26, 2017
Authors: Justin Kwan, Linda Qian


Millennials are getting a lot of flack for their #sorrynotsorry lifestyles, attitudes, and spending patterns – as evidenced by the now-infamous #avocadotoast debate. But in a (post)neoliberal world, where economies, housing markets, and job markets worldwide are still reeling in the aftershocks of the 2008 financial crisis, millennials find themselves living in economic uncertainty and precarity. Indeed, wherever you’re situated, and whatever your so-called millennial “vice” is – be it avocado toast or artisanal coffee beans – there is an undeniable running theme of millennial frustration that we can all relate to. Today's youth are eager to seek out some sort of meaning or escape from societal stresses and burdens, which are oftentimes beyond their control.

While youth around the world are going through a lot of the same struggles, in this episode of The Youth Element, join co-hosts Linda and Justin as they explore every day activities, youth spaces, and even trendy #hashtags to better understand how youth across East Asia are responding to similar socioeconomic pressures in the context of their respective cities – be it through retail therapy, overt political activism, or sharing a collective rant with pals over cake.

Additional Reading:

South Korea

Taiwan

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