Is Nostalgia for the 1990s Rational ?

Why are we so attached to the 1990s ? In an era of cascading crises, nostalgia resurges and colours our choices. Part of the ÉCHOS DU QUOTIDIEN collection from Five Minutes Publishing, this mini book questions the rationality of the love affair with the 1990s. Drawing on recent data (2024-2025), it explores the causes of this nostalgia and compares them with reality : improvements in global living standards, technological advances, falling crime rates, progress in women's and minority rights, but also rising housing costs, a surge in mental disorders among young people, global warming and a friendship recession.
Combining sociology, economics and psychology, the author shows that nostalgia can be a force for resilience but also a trap that idealises an imperfect past. This book provides keys for understanding the origins of the nostalgic feeling and invites readers to channel this emotion into present day engagement. Don't just regret the past : read, share and mobilise to build a present that meets your aspirations.