sense of the times; sensitivity to the times
Awareness of current social trends, public mood, or the spirit of the age. Often used in discussions of politics, business, or cultural commentary.
See also: 時勢感覚
Politicians need a sense of the times.
His work is supported by a keen sensitivity to the times.
Variant spelling with 時勢 (trend of the times) instead of 時世 (the age/era). Nearly synonymous, but 時世感覚 is the more common form.
Compound of 時世 (times, age) and 感覚 (sense, feeling). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word is a straightforward modern coinage.