A community of values: Intergenerational dialogue in letters from young adults to the older generation

Abstract Objective The article explores intergenerational dialogue from an axiological perspective, focusing on the exchange of values between young adults from Generation Z and the “Silver” generation. Background Intergenerational differences give rise to many misunderstandings in social relations. Mutual understanding is therefore important in order to get to know each other better and understand others. Method The study is based on a qualitative epistolary analysis of 36 letters written in 2021–2022 by respondents aged 19–25. Results The analysis revealed an ambivalent perception of relations with older persons: Alongside gratitude and admiration for the transmission of traditions, experiences, and wisdom, young people formulated expectations concerning equality, openness to contemporary realities, and recognition of issues such as mental health and environmental sustainability. The letters highlight a community of values (e.g., family, honesty, solidarity) as well as areas of tension arising from different life trajectories and lifestyles. Conclusion Building on these findings, we propose the concept of interfigurative learning as a model of mutual exchange, replacing one‐way transmission with dialogue and shared experience. Implications The results suggest that intergenerational dialogue grounded in respect and cooperation can strengthen social capital in aging societies.