The Beat (Up) Generation

In the cultural criticism piece, The Beat (Up) Generation, written by Abby Ellin, (2014), Abby compares the differences between generations in the work place regarding their work ethics, and these differences have changed how businesses function and manage employees.  The author support this claim by focusing on the millennial generations’ addition to the work force has changed how things get done, she cites several studies (205,205), and research professors as evidence as to how this change occurred. Abby’s purpose in writing this piece is centered around the fact that change is constant in the work place, so she enlightens us by pointing out that not all change is bad, especially if it improves the function of the office.  The author wants these persuasive arguments to inform business executives, employers, and baby boomers how to understand and work with millennials in todays society.

            Reading this piece was very entertaining.  It’s message is so relevant and informative, because change is so constant in the workplace businesses have to adjust to keep up.  People tend to be creatures of habit and resistant to change.  With the advent of technology, old business models can ruin a company that refuses to see the handwriting on the wall.  Conflict resolution have become an important to the viability of workplace function.  With the different generations working together, you also have different life experiences and perspectives that govern how we act in the workplace, conflict resolution helps with that.

            Abby’s essay contains quotes and surveys performed in a variety of different business environments.  Most of which focuses on how the millennials approach and performance in the workplace is being perceived by the baby boomers and their reaction to them.   She begins proving this stance by using the example of Steven Clarke, (205), and how he was going to become a millionaire in one year.  She cites Professor Jeffrey Arnett (205) when referencing the reaction to millennials as being one of anger. There are several pros and cons to change in the workplace, and there is one thing that is consistent, change is inevitable and if we are to survive we have to change also.