"We are now in the Me Decade - seeing the upward roll of the third great religious wave in American history"
- Tom Wolfe
About this Quote
The quote by Tom Wolfe, "We are now in the Me Decade - seeing the upward roll of the third great religious wave in American history," can be unpacked by taking a look at the social and cultural context of America in the 1970s, when Wolfe created the term "Me Decade." This duration was defined by a shift far from collective ideologies and responsibilities towards individualism and self-exploration.
** The Me Decade: **.
The term "Me Decade" articulates the spirit of the 1970s as a time when people focused on personal development, self-fulfillment, and introspection over communal or societal goals. This age saw an increase in popular psychology, self-help movements, and an overarching focus on individual rights and identity. In contrast to the 1960s, which stressed social modification, civil rights, and political activism, the 1970s reflected a transition to inward-looking concerns, where individuals looked for meaning and satisfaction in their own lives.
** Third Great Religious Wave: **.
Wolfe's recommendation to the "third great spiritual wave" alludes to historical motions in American spiritual life. The first two waves, known as the Great Awakenings, were defined by widespread revivals and a boost in evangelical eagerness. The "3rd wave" that Wolfe identifies in the 1970s represents a different kind of spiritual awakening, one that is deeply individual and eclectic instead of traditionally organized. This duration saw the introduction of new spiritual motions, Eastern viewpoints, and alternative spiritual practices, all showing a person's mission for a tailor-made spiritual experience.
** Interconnection: **.
By connecting the "Me Decade" with this "third terrific religious wave," Wolfe recommends that the pursuit of personal fulfillment extended into spiritual life. People were not just looking inward for individual development however likewise seeking personalized spiritual or spiritual experiences. This movement far from structured, common spiritual practices toward more customized, diverse explorations of faith mirrored the wider cultural shift towards self-centeredness that defined the years.
In summary, the quote encapsulates a duration in American history where individualism and personal spirituality assembled, producing a vibrant cultural landscape concentrated on the self.
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