---
title: "Comment by Karen Cannell on \"Generational Knowledge Inversion\" | Hashnode"
description: "Interesting premise. I feeel one needs to define, or somehow be clear about what is meant by \"relevant knowledge\". Things like, how to use facebook, howto use x"
url: "https://hashnode.com/posts/generational-knowledge-inversion/680f7fc3fe59b20c0426573f/comment/6810639230db3eced2a2eed9"
---

[Discussion](https://hashnode.com/posts/generational-knowledge-inversion/680f7fc3fe59b20c0426573f)

Comment [Generational Knowledge Inversion](https://hashnode.com/posts/generational-knowledge-inversion/680f7fc3fe59b20c0426573f)

[Karen Cannell](https://hashnode.com/@thtechnology)

[Apr 29, 2025](https://hashnode.com/posts/generational-knowledge-inversion/680f7fc3fe59b20c0426573f/comment/6810639230db3eced2a2eed9)

Interesting premise. I feeel one needs to define, or somehow be clear about what is meant by "relevant knowledge". Things like, how to use facebook, howto use x, how to use tic tok - relevant forthe younder generation, essential fort hem. Not relevant to many in older generations - any not essential. How to use a rolodex, how to write cursive, how to read a paper map, how to fold a paper map - not relevant for a youger generation. Does this mean not relevant at all any more? Hmm. And you do not touch on things like common sense (could go on for a long time on that one), how to balance a checkbook or checking account, how to change a tire, how to change the oil, (hmm, not relevant if you have AAA or rely on Uber only, or don't have a car). How to communicate face to face. That skill IS getting lost. I am VERY happy to hear your children talking with their grandparents sufficient to have intelligent meaningful conversations. I am also gussing that what is relevant changes family tofamily, group to group,location to location.

In general, I do not agree that the next generation will surpass their parents in relevant knowledge. Well -that of course depends on mydefinition of relevan tknowledge. Relevant to/for what/whom? Noting that relevant can be swayed in favor of one generation or another quite easily. More to talk about here for sure. Interesting food for thought here.

[Anton Nielsen](https://hashnode.com/@ainielsen)

[Apr 29, 2025](https://hashnode.com/posts/generational-knowledge-inversion/680f7fc3fe59b20c0426573f/comment/6810639230db3eced2a2eed9#reply-6811310f6f43f68974a077b3)

Hey Karen! Thanks for the comment! Certainly you are right that defining "relevant knowledge" is critical to the discussion. Without that definition there is no way to have any rigorous contemplation of the topic. Coming up with the definition would be a thesis in its own right. In the end, while I think my overall premise is valid, I would not be surprised or disappointed if a rigorous study found out I was wrong. Ultimately, for me, it doesn't matter that the details or conclusion are really accurate. Just the mental exercise of thinking about why we are (or at least, I am) inclined to think that because I'm older I know more has been helpful to me. And, in full honestly, I feel I learn a lot more when I keep this internal discussion at the front of my mind.