I would argue the attitudes of a complacent culture and self segregated upper class, along with the acceleration of wealth to the upper class, has led to the erosion of values, goals, and identity moreso than a decline in a shared identity. I think we’re in an era of comfort level stagnation where we accept good enough.
This shows itself with lower risk-taking and a preference for stability over ambition. Easy access to information has contributed by which quick, surface-level answers (MEMES!) replace sustained learning and critical thinking.
So, how does the widening economic gap between the haves and have nots play into declining dynamism?
Modern daily life has become more insular, shifting away from active, community based participation toward sedentary, inward focused routines. This is not totally unique to the uber wealthy, who insulate out of comfort, while the lower class is likely to insulate out of a lack of resources to go out and participate. Even so, lower class is far more likely to live in multi-generational setting and rely on community for assistance and relationships.
Complacency affects different groups in different ways but shares common roots in comfort and convenience. Those with economic security may become more easily complacent because their needs are met, reducing urgency to strive for more. Then, there’s delayed independence, limited mobility, and avoidance of risk. Across society, people are moving less, switching jobs less frequently, and starting fewer businesses, reinforcing a cycle in which stability is chosen not because it is optimal, but because it is familiar and low-risk.
