“OK Boomer”

“Ok Boomer” is a generational language term that people born in Generation Z are now using against the generation of people born in 1946 to 1964, who are known as the Baby Boomers. It is an ageist term and a widely used internet meme that gained popularity throughout this year and has been used to dismiss or mock attitudes which are stereo-typical to the older generation.

“OK Boomer” was popularized this year from a reaction to a video of an unknown older man, who declared that Millennials and Gen Zs have “Peter Pan Syndrome.” Inspired by the video, the phrase “OK Boomer” was created as retaliation and complaint against the ideals of past generations, and according to Wikipedia can be utilized as a derogatory “retort to dismiss or mock perceived narrow-minded, outdated, negatively-judgmental, or condescending attitudes of older people, though particularly baby boomers.” The usage of the term is now a viral trend, and kids are even using this term in everyday conversation.

Reactions have been mixed, with perspectives ranging from “the hatred is justified” to “the baby boomers are not to be blamed.” It is considered by some to be highly ageist. In Half Hollow Hills High School West, the students have mixed reactions about the term. Senior Lian Mui stated, “It is quite a stupid term and irrelevant, however, it is amusing.” Junior Wan-ray Hsieh finds the phrase “hilarious and clever.”

Many students find that “OK Boomer” intent is justified and quite humorous. The term has been used as a retort for perceived resistance to technological change, climate change denial, marginalization of minorities or opposition to younger generations’ ideals.  What do you think?