O'Malley Edward
Cycles are part of nature, our personal lives and the social fabric of our country. Just as the four seasons progress through the year, and repeat each year, so is there a rhythmic cadence to social change in America. The social cycle, like nature, has four seasons (periods) within it, lasting a total of about seventy to eighty years. We will explore the changes in the social, political, economic and foreign affairs in the United States since 1945 during these four periods with a look toward the start of a new cycle and what that may bring. Each generation in America has a crucial and unique role in shaping each period, as well as precipitating the change to a new period within the cycle. America has been immersed in a ‘Crisis’ period since September 11, 2001. The period has given new meaning and importance to heroes. Our social, political, economic and foreign policy foundations have shifted. But this ‘Crisis’ period will end soon and we will enter a new American ‘High’ period, reminiscent of the period after World War II but incorporating the changes in our country since then. This new ‘High’ period will be a time of greater optimism, cooperation and community. Generation X, Millennials, and the newly emerging Gen Z will drive this new era forward, each with their own unique persona and world view. Baby Boomers will gradually withdraw from the stage, having made their own important generational contribution to social change in America. This new High period will affect your personal life and our country in many ways.
