The Facebook Culture

In yesterday's San Jose Mercury, I read an article about “The Narcissism Epidemic: Living in the Age of Entitlement,” a newly published book by Jean Twenge and Keith Campbell. They address the narcissistic attitudes of the “Me Generation”—young Americans in their teens, 20’s and 30’s: now being labeled the “Millennial Generation.”

The authors attribute the narcissistic trend to a culture that builds a false sense of self-esteem by: enlightened ‘non-judgmental’ parenting; an education philosophy that rewards everyone equally; the Internet avenues of expression, like “Facebook” which allows anyone to create their own idealized persona; a celebrity culture (American Idol) that encourages the notion that anyone can be (and ought to be) famous; and easy credit which promotes instant gratification.

The authors say: “Narcissism is absolutely toxic to society: they feel entitled [but] don’t think about consequences." Twenge suggest that this 'entitlement' mentality might have helped cause America's economic crisis.

In light of this, look at the words [abreviated for emphasis] of Paul in 2 Timothy 3:1-4:  But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, ungrateful … without self-control … reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.