Fact Check: Is it true that Gen z is treated worse in work life compared to 1300 ad were people paid more with more time off compared to 2025 where it’s very low paying jobs?

Fact Check: Is Gen Z Treated Worse in Work Life Compared to 1300 AD?

What We Know

The claim that Gen Z is treated worse in work life compared to the year 1300 AD is not supported by historical data or contemporary research. In fact, modern surveys indicate that Gen Z workers prioritize work-life balance over salary, with 76% of them valuing it more than pay, according to a Newsweek report. This shift in priorities reflects a broader trend across all age groups, where 85% of workers now rank work-life balance as the most important factor in their jobs, surpassing salary (79%) for the first time in a 22-year history of Randstad's annual work survey.

Moreover, the Deloitte Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey 2025 highlights that while financial security is important, Gen Z is also focused on meaningful work and well-being. The survey indicates that many Gen Z workers are not solely motivated by high salaries but are also seeking growth, learning opportunities, and a healthy work-life balance.

Analysis

The comparison of Gen Z's work experience to that of individuals in 1300 AD lacks a factual basis. In the 14th century, the majority of the population was engaged in agrarian work, often under feudal systems with limited rights and protections. Workers had little to no job security, minimal time off, and were often subject to harsh working conditions. In contrast, modern labor laws provide protections, benefits, and rights that were nonexistent in the medieval period.

Furthermore, the notion that Gen Z is facing "very low paying jobs" is misleading. While many young workers do face economic challenges, such as rising living costs and financial insecurity, they are also actively negotiating for better pay and conditions. A Forbes article discusses how Gen Z and millennials are increasingly pursuing side hustles and negotiating salaries to improve their financial situations.

The reliability of the sources used to support the claim is also questionable. Historical comparisons often lack context and fail to consider the vast differences in societal structures, economic conditions, and labor rights between the two eras. Therefore, using anecdotal or generalized statements about "treatment" without a solid historical framework can lead to misleading conclusions.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that Gen Z is treated worse in work life compared to 1300 AD is unfounded. Modern workers, particularly Gen Z, enjoy rights and protections that were not available in the past. They prioritize work-life balance and meaningful employment over mere financial compensation, reflecting a significant shift in workplace values. The historical context and the current labor landscape demonstrate that the conditions faced by Gen Z are not comparable to those of workers in the 14th century.