The ones that figure things out aren't the problem.

The shutting down isn't just bad because of the reactive, rebellious attitude if creates. But also because it signals to the kid that verification and objective analysis is unnecessary.

Just listen to the authority and shut down anyone who doesn't.

Humans are smart, kids much more so than adults. If you talk to them right they'll help you make your argument for you and act the right way.

Though I did also notice the trend (especially in Gen Z) back to conservatism. If you ever even mentioned virginity when I went to school it'd be a laughing matter.

Meanwhile Gen Z are starting to make waiting for marriage cool again (not a surprise, because who the fuck wants his wife to be screwing another guy while you sleep on the couch and praise her independence).

Edit: "Do as thou wilt" should be for looking outward. Live and let live. Doesn't mean we should follow every impulse, something that went missing. The balance between leaving people the fuck alone and not being a degenerate in your own life is a fine line to walk.