a sign of the times

something that shows how the society is like now, particularly how bad it is

The origin of the idiom "a sign of the times" can be traced back to biblical references, specifically to the New Testament, in the book of Matthew. It is often used in social, cultural, or political discussions to analyze and comment on the cultural, technological, or societal shifts that are perceived as significant and indicative of the current time.

The increasing popularity of social media influencers is a sign of the times, reflecting the digital age we live in.
Climate change activism gaining momentum is a sign of the times, indicating a growing concern for the environment.
The widespread use of cassette tapes in the 1980s was a sign of the times, representing the dominance of analog audio technology.
The economic recession of 2008 was a sign of the times, revealing the vulnerabilities in the financial system.
The widespread integration of virtual reality technology may be a sign of the times, reshaping entertainment and immersive experiences.