In 'The Fourth Turning,' authors William Strauss and Neil Howe present a provocative theory of history, suggesting that societies cycle through four generational archetypes every 80-100 years. Each 'turning' reflects distinct patterns of societal behavior, creating a rhythmic tapestry of crisis and renewal. With the current era positioned at a climactic 'Fourth Turning,' the authors argue that understanding the past can illuminate the path to our future. Their insights challenge readers to reconsider how generational dynamics shape culture and politics. Are we destined to repeat history, or can we forge a new narrative?
By William Strauss, Neil Howe
Published: 1997
""History unfolds in cycles, and as each generation faces its challenges, the lessons of the past illuminate the path ahead, urging us to embrace the transformative power of our shared experiences.""
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • Discover the game-changing theory of the cycles of history and what past generations can teach us about living through times of upheaval—with deep insights into the roles that Boomers, Generation X, and Millennials have to play—now with a new preface by Neil Howe. First comes a High, a period of confident expansion. Next comes an Awakening, a time of spiritual exploration and rebellion. Then comes an Unraveling, in which individualism triumphs over crumbling institutions. Last comes a Crisis—the Fourth Turning—when society passes through a great and perilous gate in history. William Strauss and Neil Howe will change the way you see the world—and your place in it. With blazing originality, The Fourth Turning illuminates the past, explains the present, and reimagines the future. Most remarkably, it offers an utterly persuasive prophecy about how America’s past will predict what comes next. Strauss and Howe base this vision on a provocative theory of American history. The authors look back five hundred years and uncover a distinct pattern: Modern history moves in cycles, each one lasting about the length of a long human life, each composed of four twenty-year eras—or “turnings”—that comprise history’s seasonal rhythm of growth, maturation, entropy, and rebirth. Illustrating this cycle through a brilliant analysis of the post–World War II period, The Fourth Turning offers bold predictions about how all of us can prepare, individually and collectively, for this rendezvous with destiny.
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“"History unfolds in cycles, and as each generation faces its challenges, the lessons of the past illuminate the path ahead, urging us to embrace the transformative power of our shared experiences."”
The Fourth Turning
By William Strauss, Neil Howe
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William Strauss was an American author, historian, and speaker, best known for his works on generational theory and American culture. He co-authored several influential books with Neil Howe, including 'Generations: The History of America's Future, 1584 to 2069' and 'The Fourth Turning: An American Prophecy', which explore the cyclical nature of history and the impact of different generations on societal trends. Strauss's writing is characterized by a blend of historical analysis, cultural commentary, and predictive insights, making complex concepts accessible to a broad audience. His thought leadership has made him a sought-after speaker and commentator on social and political issues.
Neil Howe is a renowned American historian, economist, and demographer, best known for co-authoring the influential book 'Generations' with William Strauss. Together, they developed the theory of generational cycles in American history. Howe's other notable works include 'The Fourth Turning' and 'Millennials Rising', where he delves into the characteristics of different generational cohorts. His writing style is characterized by a blend of thorough research and accessible prose, making complex sociological concepts understandable to a broad audience. As a thought leader, Howe frequently speaks on social trends and their implications for society's future.
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