Neil Howe

Neil Howe, an American author and historian, has become a pivotal figure in the analysis of generational cycles and their profound impact on society. Born in 1951, Howe has carved a niche in the realm of historical and economic prophecy, collaborating with the late William Strauss to explore the cyclical patterns of history. His academic background, including a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master of Arts in Economics from Yale University, has equipped him with the analytical tools to delve into the intricate dynamics of generational change. Throughout his career, Howe has emerged as a leading voice in understanding how generational archetypes shape the cultural, political, and economic landscapes. The Fourth Turning: An American Prophecy—What the Cycles of History Tell Us About America's Next Rendezvous with Destiny stands as a testament to Howe's profound insights into the cyclical nature of history. Co-authored with Strauss, this seminal work posits a theory of recurring generational cycles in American history, each lasting around 80 to 100 years, and divided into four distinct phases, or "turnings." Published in 1997, the book achieved critical acclaim for its bold predictions about America's future crises and the subsequent societal transformations. This work, alongside others such as Generations: The History of America's Future, 1584 to 2069, has solidified Howe's reputation as a visionary in the field of generational analysis. Howe's writing style is characterized by its analytical rigor and a compelling narrative that interweaves historical data with intuitive foresight. His exploration of themes such as generational conflict, societal regeneration, and the inevitability of historical cycles has contributed significantly to the discourse on how societies evolve over time. By positing that each generation plays a distinct role in the unfolding of history, Howe has not only provided a framework for understanding past events but also a lens through which to anticipate future trends. His contributions continue to influence policymakers, business leaders, and academics alike, affirming his status as a thought leader in the study of generational dynamics.