How a Person from the 1970s Would React to Today's Society

I was born in the 1990s, and modern society and culture seem utterly alien and disillusioning. Someone from the 1970s would likely have a mix of fascination, confusion, and concern when encountering today's society. This article explores the key areas they would react to, offering insights into how they might perceive the dramatic changes that have occurred.

Technology: A World Transformed

The rapid advancement in technology would be astonishing. The prevalence of smartphones, the internet, and social media would be particularly surprising. They would marvel at how these tools have transformed communication, access to information, and daily life. The 1970s person might find it hard to believe that they could instantly connect with people across the globe, access virtually any information at their fingertips, and interact with others through various online platforms and virtual realities.

Social Changes: Progress and Debate

The progress in civil rights, gender equality, and LGBTQ rights would likely be viewed positively. Social issues and debates would also surprise and perhaps concern them. The visibility of diverse identities and lifestyles would contrast sharply with the more conservative norms of the 1970s. They would likely admire the strides made towards social justice but would also be troubled by ongoing disputes and disagreements. The increasing diversity and complexity of social issues today could be both fascinating and daunting.

Cultural Shifts: Music, Fashion, and Entertainment

The evolution of music, fashion, and entertainment would be notable. Hip-hop and pop culture phenomena would represent a significant shift from the music and media landscape of the 1970s. Streaming services have revolutionized how content is consumed, providing instant access to a vast library of entertainment. They might be amazed by the sheer volume and variety of content available today and how it has changed the way people consume and interact with music and entertainment.

Political Climate: Polarization and Activism

Today's political polarization and issues like climate change would be perplexing. The intense contemporary political discourse could be seen as a continuation of the activism and social movements from the 1970s. However, the modern political environment, characterized by heightened tribalism, cynicism, and division, might be a stark departure from the more hopeful and idealistic outlooks of the 1970s. They would likely find the current political climate both challenging and inspiring, as it reflects both historical continuity and profound change.

Economic Changes: Globalization and Inequality

The shift towards a more globalized economy, the rise of the gig economy, and issues like student debt and housing affordability would be shocking. They would draw comparisons to the economic challenges of their own era, such as inflation and energy crises. The 1970s person would likely recognize many parallels but would also be appalled by the level of economic disparity and inequality that has grown in the decades since. The concept of a global economy, where markets and jobs can be accessed and competed for on an international scale, might be both thrilling and concerning.

Environmental Awareness: The Urgency of Climate Change

The heightened awareness of environmental issues and climate change would resonate with the early environmental movements of the 1970s. However, the scale and urgency of today's challenges might be daunting. They would likely appreciate the progress made in environmental activism and policy but would also be alarmed by the rapid pace of environmental degradation and the need for urgent action.

Overall, a person from the 1970s would likely experience a blend of admiration for progress and nostalgia for simpler times, alongside a critical view of both the advancements and the challenges that have emerged. The world today is a far cry from the one they knew, and it would be both fascinating and unsettling to them.