Christian Scholz: Generation Z. What makes them tick, what changes them and why they infect us all.
If you look at generations, you constantly stumble across two names: Klaus Hurrelmann (Shell Study) and Christian Scholz. That's why a brief insight into the second author's book is essential, especially because I personally rate it as excellent. If I had to choose between all the works on Generation Z, I would pick this one.
Christian Scholz brings together an incredible amount of information about Generation Z in his book of the same name. I particularly like three things about it: firstly, the author addresses the criticism that the term "generation" or the classification of many people as belonging to a generation brings with it ("horoscope character"?). In my opinion, this is an essential introduction to the topic. Secondly, I like the author's writing style. It is scholarly, deliberative and discussive, and the text passages are regularly backed up with sources. He avoids empty or difficult-to-understand statements and is able to express complex things simply (in my opinion, the true art of science that characterizes a good scientist). He expresses many things in a lively and humorous way. These are my favorite books to read, lots of information presented in a crisp and witty way. Thirdly, for all lazy readers, the author offers practical summaries with his boxes on "lifeworlds", including tips on conclusions that can be drawn for practical dealings with the generation, whether as parents, employers or simply fellow citizens.
In addition, Christian Scholz presents his Homepage (https://die-generation-z.de/) provides even more information on Generation Z. Even if the site is not exactly a feast for the eyes, it is a treasure trove of knowledge. In the Blog various perspectives or topics relating to Generation Z are supplemented and explained (the only downside: no updates since July 2018; as at: 15.05.2020). The page "Articles & Interviews" complements this fund, which is characterized by a kind of Forum ("Questions and answers") is rounded off. You will find many answered questions there, but you can also ask one yourself.
Overall rating: 5 out of 5 stars. Even if it is a lot to read, you can delve deep into the world of the young generation and learn to understand it. Personally, I also find the work more enjoyable to read than the Shell study, because for me Christian Scholz's book is not only highly informative but also entertaining. The additions on his Homepage.
I currently recommend two more books on Generation Z, both of which have the same (main) title. If you would like to find out more about them: Click here for my short article on "Generation Z for HR managers and executives" by Rüdiger Maas and here it goes to "Youth 2019 - 18th Shell Youth Study" from the other pope (alongside Christian Scholz) of generational research, Klaus Hurrelmann.
