A couple of points.We all need distractions in our lives, but too much distractions is harmful. Just think about how much time they spend on these things compare to practicality and tangible matters! I know them! Even they can't do their personal errands!
Distractions are chosen by the individual so are therefor a personal choice. Choosing to plant ones ass and brain in front of an xbox, etc for most of ones youth is a poor choice verses tinkering exploring classic pastimes.
Its not like the option to do so was not available, so the point cant be made that the majority had no other choice but to vegetate with consoles and phones, they chose to, and still continue to choose that option.
So again, respectfully, coming from someone who is older, I see deflection as to why your generation is what it is instead of the reality that many of you made, and continue to make, choices that led you to the current state of affairs.
I do agree though, that my generation and previous gave away way to much for they recieved. Arguably though, generations older than mine also enjoyed better quality of life and benefits/pensions from companies they were employed by. My generation has hardly known that, and in aviation, its been non existent. I know a few old timers who pensioned out from major airlines in the 1970's and had very nice benefits though.
Personally, as AME's, we have to stop selling out and take on more of transactional mindset in how/why we go to work. That being said, I believe the majority have no stomach to do so.
As for society in general with the "rent seeking" ideology, I see a lot of dysfunction and hardship coming up. The government will most likely spend more on welfare/social programs to support the rent seeking generation, and will therefore lean harder on what's left of the higher earning working class(me) with higher income taxation.
Thing is, a lot of us are starting to practice what's known as "income planning" which aims to earn up to the lowest possible tax bracket. There's really not much point in making higher and higher wages in Canada because the taxes @#$! you.
Anyway, the more this happens, the less revenue for gov, the more the country goes into debt because rent seekers will still need gov handouts.
Taxes, btw, are going up again Jan 1st, and yep, payroll taxes are the big one.