Political Idol of the New Generation

Abstract

This research article aims to understand politically active young people under a new structure of feeling, examining what do they want a political role model or “political idol” to be and do? This research uses a qualitative methodology with a random sampling group of key informants composed of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 61 informants in a province in the upper northern region. The findings revealed that the current generation's emotional attitude is hopeful and requires forward-thinking leaders to solve the country’s problems as well as understanding people’s problems. It is different from the previous generation. While the older generation is worried about the state power that represses the opinions of the new generation, political role models or political idols that the new generation needs should demonstrate these features: 1) be a leader able to create hope and positive energy in politics; 2) be a change agent; and 3) understand problems and come up with concrete proposals. In addition, it is necessary to have knowledge and ability including listening to people who have different opinions and being able to influence ideas in a wide area.