Part 13/17:
The conversation shifts to societal trends, with Zooby citing William Strauss and Neil Howe’s theory of the Fourth Turning—the idea that societies cycle through eras of chaos, order, and renewal. He comments that current times resemble a period of decadence where comfort diminishes purpose, calling for struggle, challenge, and community to restore vitality.
He criticizes the modern obsession with wokeness and identity politics, arguing that much of the discourse is driven by manufactured fears—such as white supremacy or patriarchy—that lack substantive basis in reality. He advocates for a return to authenticity, emphasizing that the world is, objectively, better than at any time in history; yet, people’s perception is distorted by social media and sensationalism.