The Causes and Cures for Gen Z's Economic Illness

This article is adapted from a lecture presented at the Mises Student Circle “Why the Economy Is Failing Generation Z” on November 1, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I’m happy to say that this year my wife and I will have celebrated 25 years of marriage and are looking forward to the next 25! For those who are familiar with my research, you’ll know that the topic of marriage and family life is a central focus of my work in part because it is so intensely personal. Now, on a personal note, within our marriage, one of our so-called difficulties has been an ongoing, low-level conflict . . . we