Japan's 'low desire society' fades away

Japan faces a 'low desire society': young people without ambition, without a future and without the will for anything

Japan, a pioneer in social and demographic trends, seems to have entered a spiral of existential apathy. Young Japanese have lost interest in the traditional pillars of life: work, family, consumption and life aspirations. A phenomenon that some attribute to feminism and labour exploitation, while others point to a widespread exhaustion with a system that offers no clear rewards.

The mirage of prosperity and the burden of old age

The discussion points to a disconnect between Japan's image as an economic powerhouse and the reality of its young people. While the country carries a staggering public debt (over 230% of GDP) and a birth rate at historic lows, the perception among the elderly is of a generation living comfortably at the expense of the future. Labour exploitation, with 12-hour workdays, is presented as a key factor that discourages any effort if the reward is a mediocre life.

Causes and consequences: from feminism to lack of motivation

There are various and often conflicting theories about the causes of this 'low desire society'. One side of the debate points to feminism and women aspiring to 'too much' as the trigger of the demographic crisis. Others, however, link it directly to 'labour exploitation' and the lack of a 'life project' that compensates for the effort. The conclusion is unanimous: the balance between effort and reward is off. If hard work does not guarantee a decent future, why bother?

A path that could be ours

Japanese youth apathy is not an isolated phenomenon. Several participants in the debate note that 'we are heading the same way here', warning of a 'lack of interest even in what is natural, which this society causes'. Existential exhaustion, precariousness and the feeling that 'the effort is not worth what you get' seem to be ills that transcend borders. The question left hanging is whether this model of existential disinterest is a phase or the final destination of developed societies.

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