Is it just me?

That's a really insightful question, and there's a lot of nuance to the answer. It's not just you; many studies and observers have noted a shift in how younger generations, particularly Gen Z, approach tolerance and differing opinions.

Here’s a breakdown of the key factors at play:

The Paradox of Tolerance

Younger generations often show higher levels of tolerance for diversity in terms of race, sexual orientation, and gender identity than older generations. Pew Research Center studies have consistently found that Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to view things like same-sex marriage and a growing multiracial society as a good thing.

However, this is where the paradox comes in. Many of the same studies and cultural commentators note that this high level of social tolerance is often accompanied by a lower tolerance for differing political or ideological viewpoints, particularly those seen as a threat to these social values.

The Role of "Cancel Culture" and Social Media

One of the most significant factors is the influence of "cancel culture" and the dynamics of social media.

 * Public Shaming: The internet has created a new kind of public square where individuals can be held accountable for their words and actions in a way that wasn't possible before. This has led to instances where people are "canceled" or publicly shamed for expressing opinions that are widely considered offensive or harmful.

 * Lack of "Agree to Disagree": Some observers have noted that for Gen Z, there is a greater difficulty in simply "agreeing to disagree." Opinions are often viewed as a reflection of a person's core morality. If an opinion is seen as unjust or harmful, it's not something to be tolerated or debated, but rather a view to be actively opposed.

 * Digital Echo Chambers: Social media algorithms are designed to show users content they are likely to agree with. This creates a feedback loop where young people are constantly exposed to and affirmed in their own beliefs, with very little exposure to opposing views in a genuine way. This can make them less equipped to engage with and understand different perspectives.

The Search for "Safety"

Some researchers suggest that a focus on emotional and psychological "safety" on college campuses and in social circles has contributed to a lower tolerance for ideas that are perceived as harmful or offensive. In this view, protecting people from uncomfortable or potentially harmful speech is seen as more important than the traditional ideal of unrestrained free speech.

Generational vs. Lifecycle Effects

It's also important to consider if this is a generational effect (a permanent characteristic of a generation) or a lifecycle effect (a phase that people go through at a certain age). For example, younger people have often been more liberal and politically active than their elders, and studies have shown that people tend to become more conservative as they age.

However, many analysts believe that the current level of polarization and intolerance is more than just the typical youthful rebellion. The unique context of the internet, social media, and a highly polarized political climate seems to have created a new dynamic where intolerance for certain viewpoints is seen as a moral imperative, rather than a failing.

In summary, while young people today are more accepting of a wider range of social and cultural identities than previous generations, they may be less tolerant of opinions that clash with their core values. This is a complex phenomenon driven by a mix of genuine social progress, the polarizing effects of technology, and a new understanding of what it means to be "tolerant."