#rp25-Sprecher*innen Klaus Hurrelmann, Orçun Ilter, Anna Lachhammer, Gaya Palmér: Hey Boomer!

Baby boomers, Generation Golf, millennials, Gen Z or soon Gen Alpha - the dispute about the sense (and nonsense) of such labels divides not only regulars' tables, but also academia. Some consider the categorisation of generations to be outdated and simplistic. Others see it as an important tool for visualising social developments.

Klaus Hurrelmann, one of Germany's most prominent childhood and youth researchers, takes a clear stance: yes, the concept of generations is controversial - but it is indispensable if we want to understand how young people grow up in times of multiple crises. His central thesis is that living conditions during adolescence have a lasting impact on attitudes, values and plans for the future.

The foundations for an intergenerational contract are there - but the conditions need to be renegotiated. Is this the beginning of a real intergenerational conflict? In the second part of the lecture, three people from GenZ will reflect on this and the data and interpretations presented. The discussion with Orçun Ilter, Anna Lachhammer and Gaya Palmér brings clarity - and tension.

Klaus Hurrelmann is Senior Professor of Public Health and Education at the Hertie School. His research interests include health and education policy.

Orçun Ilter has been Chairman of the Berlin State Pupils' Committee (LSA) since summer 2024. He attends the eleventh year of Gabriele-von-Bülow-Gymnasium in Reinickendorf.

Anna Lachhammer is an editor specialising in media literacy, social media and generational conflicts. In addition to her editorial work, she is a musician and focusses on digital pop culture and social change.

Gaya Palmér has been active at Fashion Revolution for over 2 years. She is currently trying to find a job in the film industry.