There has long been a rule of etiquette that in polite company, one should never discuss politics, religion, or money. However, recent data from the popular dating app Tinder shows that Gen Z is shattering this old-fashioned rule and openly discussing their political beliefs with potential partners. With the upcoming general election on July 4th, young people are not only unafraid to share their own political allegiances, but they are also asking their dates to do the same.
According to the survey, a staggering one-third of young people have either ended a relationship or would consider doing so if their partner was not politically engaged. This statistic highlights the importance of political views in today’s society and how it can affect relationships.
So why are young people breaking this taboo and bringing up politics on dates? It’s not surprising that in such a politically-charged time, young people want to know where their potential partner stands on important issues. The research shows that 60% of young singles in the UK feel strongly that the person they are dating should respect their political opinions. This number increases to 65% for young women, showing that women especially value a partner who shares their political beliefs.
This approach is refreshing in a time when politics can often be a divisive and sensitive topic. Dating coach and relationships expert Christiana Maxion spoke to Cosmopolitan about discussing politics with potential partners, stating, “Early conversations around contentious topics may save you a lot of wasted time! Alternatively, they may cement your initial positive thoughts on a person and leave you wanting to learn more. Either way, you’ll know where you stand. You don’t need to get into a debate with someone you’re not that invested in. Remember, save the energy!”
These conversations may also help to determine compatibility early on in the relationship. Laura Wilkinson-Rea, Senior Communications Director from Tinder, comments, “At Tinder, we support and encourage our users to be their true selves while looking for a match. For today’s politically engaged young people, the research shows this includes being upfront about your politics and voting intention.”
It’s worth noting that the data from Statista shows that both Gen Z and Millennials intend to vote for center-left and left-wing parties in the upcoming election. This means that there likely won’t be too many disagreements on dates when it comes to political beliefs. This is a refreshing change from the current political climate, where there is often a sharp divide between left and right.
In addition to political alignment, another important aspect for young people is finding someone who shares their values and beliefs. This can be achieved by discussing politics, which is often tied to one’s values and beliefs. By being open and honest about their political views, young people can ensure that they are not wasting their time on a relationship that is not compatible in the long run.
While some may argue that discussing politics on a date may ruin the mood or create tension, it’s important to remember that politics is an essential part of our daily lives. It affects everything from healthcare to education to our rights, and it’s crucial to know where our potential partners stand on these issues. Plus, open and honest communication is a key component of any healthy relationship.
In conclusion, it’s clear that young people are not afraid to break the old rule of not discussing politics on dates. They understand the importance of political beliefs and want to ensure that their potential partners share their values and opinions. This approach not only saves time and energy but also promotes open and honest communication in relationships. So, for all the Gen Z and Millennial daters out there, don’t be afraid to bring up politics on your next date – it may just lead to a deeper connection.
