Kids without a compass!

Democracies are under pressure. People are feeling very uncertain in the face of social and political change.
© rotoGraphics – stock.adobe.com

April 8, 2024

Young people in particular need guidance in times of multiple crises caused by global conflicts, climate change and the rise of authoritarian regimes.

Naturally, there are many possibilities for imparting values to young people. One interesting but little considered way is literature for children and young adults. After all, reading is an indispensable cultural tool when it comes to an individual’s personal development.

Which values are conveyed by books written for young people today? How do young people react to the books’ contents? And how do the books help overcome social challenges and strengthen democratic values?

The Liz Mohn Foundation sought answers to these questions by working with literature expert Professor Jürgen Wertheimer to scientifically evaluate the most popular literature read by young people in recent years.

The study’s sobering conclusion: Kids today have no compass. This is because even if many books address current socio-political issues, young people often lack the opportunity to reflect on their own attitudes and the topics that are important to them.  

When it comes to their questions and concerns, young people must be heard. They need help achieving a fundamental sense of security, which they can gain by getting involved and discussing values and democracy with their peers.

Ansprechpartner:in

Dr. Jörg Habich