Looking for Alaska largely focuses on character-driven drama rather than shoehorning in identity politics. However, there are occasional moments where modern social themes receive more emphasis than in the original novel, making the show feel a bit like it's checking boxes rather than just telling a story. It's not egregious, but the influence is present.

The show explores teenage rebellion, family dysfunction, and casual disrespect for authority, common YA themes, but doesn't go aggressively after traditional values. There's some subtle questioning of religion and authority, but it's not the centerpiece. Overall, it reflects standard modern attitudes rather than overtly undermining cultural foundations.

While diverse characters are present and traditional perspectives are occasionally ridiculed, the show does attempt to offer some nuance. Most characters generally share a modern, progressive outlook, but alternative viewpoints aren’t completely vilified, just marginalized or lightly mocked.