generation taking liberties, The

Spectator, The, May 15, 1999 by Wright, James

The X in Generation X is not an uncontrollable variable, but a variable of unlimited potential. Its self-reliant streak could be championed rather than ignored or fought against. What young people want first is to dispel their negative stereotype and to be happy, successful and free from the shackles of the state. Taxes, regulation, prohibition and interference as barriers to success and happiness, and deterrents to innovation, hard work and enterprise. The mantra of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness is one which Generation X happily subscribes to. The challenge for the rest of society is whether it continues to alienate its young people or sits up and listens to them.

The author is a director of Thoughts for the Millennium, the UK's youngest think-tank.