There’s also the de-moralization (emphasis away from morality) of the country to consider. Other than the children of FReepers and friends of same, the younger of this country are steadily moving away from any kind of moral center derived from spiritual belief. Any kind of morality left is of two kinds: “moralism”, morality for its own sake, or morality that can be derived from simple reasoning alone.
This is why we see so much support for “gay marriage” in the youth today. Objections to it are centrally based in spiritual morality (although a reasoned case can be made from logic and history alone, it’s a rather complex task so is often overlooked in the soundbyte culture)
Also why there is an uptick in the objection to abortion among the tech savvy young. They have seen the ultrasound pictures for themselves. Not much rationalization can stand up to the power of a baby picture. (These are most likely represented by the two lovely ladies unthread supporting Jeb. That, and they are probably “dreamers”)
Also why some seem to be supporting Trump. He’s using social media more than his competitors; that resonates with the younger crowd.
Bottom line: the departure from faith as a central part of one’s life is a direct cause of all of this. It’s why we will never get back on track as a society if we don’t get back on track with God. The winds of society change direction too quickly to be a guiding force for good.
I agree with your premise there.
It’s still a pretty big stretch to pick up a gun and go spray a theater or some other public event just because you are unhappy.