Dr Arthur Brooks: Gen Z, Disconnection and the Act of Boredom

In this episode of The Winston Marshall Show, I sit down with former Harvard professor and bestselling author Arthur Brooks for a conversation on happiness, meaning, smartphones, faith, and why modern life is making us miserable. We discuss the hidden cost of constant distraction, Gen Z's mental health crisis, prayer, suffering, social media, and why a meaningful life requires boredom, real relationships, and a deeper connection with God. A fascinating conversation about happiness, purpose, and what it truly means to live well.LIVE EVENT: Is Islam compatible with the West? Get your discounted first release tickets now before they sell out: https://winstonmarshall.eventbrite.co.uk I can’t wait for you to join us in London for one of the most important debates of our timeOur show is independently supported by you, consider signing up to our substack to get added benefits like ad-free and extended episodes here: https://www.winstonmarshall.co.uk/Chapters00:00 Why Your Phone Is Making Life Feel Meaningless02:02 Why We Need Boredom09:01 Prayer, Meditation & the Brain12:55 The Jesus Prayer & Daily Prayer18:48 What Smartphones Have Done to Gen Z24:38 Can Gen Z Reverse the Damage?25:40 Why Dating Apps Make Finding Love Harder29:43 Should Children Have Smartphones?33:39 Gen Z’s Crisis of Meaning38:46 Why Suffering Is Necessary