专访丨于春海：为什么提出“投资于人”

Core Viewpoint - "Investment in people" is a crucial aspect of China's development strategy, emphasizing the allocation of resources towards education, healthcare, and social welfare to enhance human capital and drive high-quality economic growth [1][3][11]. Summary by Sections Investment in People vs. Investment in Material - "Investment in people" refers to directing more fiscal resources towards areas that enhance individual capabilities and welfare, contrasting with "investment in material," which focuses on physical assets and infrastructure [1][2]. - The return on "investment in material" has significantly decreased from 2008 to 2023, indicating a need for a shift towards human-centered investments [2][3]. Economic Growth and Domestic Demand - China's domestic consumption accounts for approximately 39% of GDP, while capital formation is around 41%, highlighting a need for improved interaction between consumption and investment [4][5]. - "Investment in people" aims to address the mismatch in domestic supply and demand, enhancing the quality of life and driving economic growth [5][6]. Areas of Focus for Investment in People - Key areas for "investment in people" include education, healthcare, cultural services, and environmental improvements, which are essential for enhancing overall human development [7][8]. - The shift towards "investment in people" also encompasses the need for a modern industrial system and technological self-reliance to support high-quality development [8][11]. Measuring Investment Effectiveness - Unlike "investment in material," which has clear metrics for evaluation, the effectiveness of "investment in people" requires a broader, more qualitative assessment that considers social and economic dimensions [9][10]. - A comprehensive evaluation framework is necessary to assess the long-term impacts of "investment in people" on societal development [10][12]. Unique Characteristics of China's Investment in People - China's approach to "investment in people" transcends mere welfare considerations, focusing on enhancing human capabilities and addressing systemic issues in various sectors [11][12]. - The emphasis on human-centered development reflects a commitment to improving both material and spiritual well-being, distinguishing China's strategy from other countries [12][13]. Long-term Considerations and Implementation - "Investment in people" should be integrated into the broader context of China's modernization efforts, addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals [14][15]. - Effective implementation requires a balance between market forces and government intervention to foster a conducive environment for human development [16].