- Rejection of traditional values: Both in the 1920s and today, youth culture often embraces countercultural values and lifestyles that challenge societal norms and traditions. During the 1920s, this manifested in the flapper culture and the rise of jazz music and new art forms. Today, youth culture often incorporates diverse lifestyles and identities, such as LGBTQ+ identities, and promotes progressive social change.
- Expression through art and music: Both in the 1920s and today, art, music, and cultural expressions play a central role in youth culture. In the 1920s, the Harlem Renaissance produced groundbreaking art and literature, while jazz and blues music flourished. Today, youth culture is shaped by a variety of music genres, social media, visual arts, and digital media, enabling young people to express themselves creatively.
- Youth activism and social change: In the 1920s, young people were at the forefront of social movements, advocating for women's rights, labor rights, and civil rights. Similarly, today's youth are actively engaged in social activism, addressing issues such as climate change, racial injustice, and LGBTQ+ rights. Youth-led movements like Fridays for Future and Black Lives Matter have demonstrated the powerful influence of young people in shaping societal change.
- Embrace of technology and innovation: In both eras, youth culture has been characterized by the rapid adoption and influence of new technologies. In the 1920s, the rise of radio, phonographs, and automobiles reshaped popular culture and communication. Today's youth are deeply ingrained in the digital age, embracing smartphones, social media, and the internet to connect, share ideas, and express themselves, influencing cultural trends and behaviors.
- Cultural diversity and globalization: Both the 1920s and today are marked by increasing cultural diversity and globalization. In the 1920s, the influx of immigrants from different parts of the world brought diverse cultural influences to the United States. Similarly, today's youth culture is shaped by a more interconnected world, with influences from various cultures shaping fashion, music, and overall lifestyle choices. Social media and global travel facilitate cultural exchange and the spread of ideas.