Generational continuum
Generations define the evolving social and technological landscape. In my previous op-eds, 'Gen X' and 'Gen X and Gen Z in Conversation', published in these columns, I opined on how generational differences shape society. Now, watching the kids of my nephews and nieces, as well as the children of my coworkers, I notice a clear trend — toddlers effortlessly using smartphones, lost in cartoons in English or Hindi, yet shy to engage socially. This paradox shows the need to explore Generation Alpha (born between 2010 and 2024), the first to be raised entirely in an AI-driven world, and how this will transform learning, communication and human bonds. Generation X, moved from an analog childhood to a digital adulthood, bridging the two tech eras, shaping work culture, parenting and society with their drive and skill to adapt. As parents, they taught Gen Z think for themselves, question things and use technology. Gen Z grew up as true digital natives in an internet-driven worl...