我们为什么无法停止“内卷”？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "involution" in society, where individuals feel compelled to compete relentlessly despite changing economic conditions and diminishing returns on effort [3][17][28]. Group 1: Economic Context - China's economic growth from 1978 to 2022 averaged approximately 9.5% annually, with urban residents' disposable income increasing from 343 yuan to 49,283 yuan, a growth of over 140 times [6]. - The real estate sector saw significant price increases, with average housing prices per square meter rising from about 2,112 yuan in 2000 to 9,860 yuan in 2020, particularly in first-tier cities like Beijing, where prices surged from 4,000 yuan to 60,000 yuan per square meter [7]. - Housing assets accounted for 59.1% of urban residents' total assets, indicating that homeownership is not just for living but also a core component of wealth accumulation [8]. Group 2: Social Dynamics - The societal consensus has been that hard work leads to success, with young people saving for down payments and families upgrading properties to increase asset value [9]. - The rise of the internet economy post-2010 created numerous wealth opportunities, exemplified by significant bonuses in tech companies like Baidu and Tencent [10][11][12]. - Despite the decline in the marginal benefits of hard work since 2020, the ingrained survival logic from decades of competition continues to drive individuals to "roll" [17]. Group 3: Educational and Career Structures - The article highlights the need for a diversified education system to support a slower-paced lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of individual stability and a reformed vocational education system to alleviate societal pressures [19][20]. - Germany's education system exemplifies a stable social structure where vocational training is respected, and skilled workers can earn competitive salaries without stigma [22][23]. - A significant portion of German youth (over 70%) express willingness to pursue technical education, indicating a shift towards valuing practical skills over traditional academic routes [24]. Group 4: Cultural Perspectives - The article notes that many young people still believe in traditional success narratives, such as "studying changes fate" and "working in big companies equals success," with 52% feeling pressured to compete due to others' efforts [26]. - The pressure to conform to competitive norms makes it challenging for individuals to adopt a slower lifestyle, as they face financial and familial pressures [27]. - The article concludes that true societal progress involves allowing individuals to slow down rather than perpetually compete, suggesting a need for a cultural shift away from the current "involution" mindset [29][30].