LIVING IN A DIGITAL WORLD. HOPE AND FEAR OF FUTURE AMONG GENERATION Z

Abstract

Generations shaped in the process of formation of an information/digital society have significant differences from previous generations, which were formed in the conditions of an industrial society at the level of values. The aim of this study is to identify specific differences in the perception of social, existential, and transcendental fears in Generation Z (also known as centennials, zoomers, etc., born in the late 1990s - early 2000s). Based on an information-communication approach, qualitative research (focus groups) of centennials - students of universities in the city of Ufa on the topic of fear perception was conducted. It was found that fear of the future information/digital society, shared by the older generations, is not characteristic of Generation Z. Development in a digital environment has fostered qualities such as pragmatism, network solidarity, network rootedness, and a positive attitude towards the digital future. Generation Z has shown a decrease in fear towards the development of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and genetic engineering. At the same time, they are concerned about existential fears related to external forces, such as environmental pollution, global warming, and the risk of economic and political crises. In general, representatives of the digital society are optimistic, hoping that they can solve society's problems with the support of digital technologies. The identified change in the structure of fear perception has both academic and practical significance, allowing for the expansion and deepening of research in this area, as well as increasing the effectiveness of interaction with Generation Z.