The Fourth Turning (book)

"The Fourth Turning" by William Strauss and Neil Howe presents a cyclical theory of history, suggesting society passes through recurring 80-100 year eras called "turnings." Each turning lasts about a generation and has distinct characteristics: a High (period of stability), an Awakening (spiritual renewal), an Unraveling (growing individualism), and a Crisis (major upheaval). The Fourth Turning is the Crisis phase, when society faces significant challenges—wars, economic upheaval, or major societal change—that lead to rebuilding and renewal. The book argues history repeats in these patterns, and understanding them can help anticipate future societal shifts.