全球中产大败局？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the concept of the "middle class," highlighting its ambiguous definition and the pressures it faces globally, particularly in the context of economic downturns and rising inequality [5][6][7]. Group 1: Definition and Characteristics of the Middle Class - The middle class is a vague concept with various definitions based on income, assets, education, and social status, with different standards applied in different countries [5][6]. - In China, middle-class households are often defined as those with an annual income between 100,000 to 500,000 yuan for a typical three-person family [5]. - The article references a theory by sociologist Li Qiang, categorizing the middle class into four groups, including traditional cadres, new middle-class professionals, employees of successful enterprises, and individual entrepreneurs [5]. Group 2: Economic Pressures on the Middle Class - The article notes that during economic upturns, more individuals identify as middle class, while this perception declines during downturns [6]. - Historical examples from Japan and South Korea illustrate that during economic booms, a significant portion of the population identified as middle class, but this changed drastically during economic crises [7]. - Reports indicate that the middle class in the U.S. has shrunk from 61% in 1971 to 51% in 2023, reflecting a long-term trend of middle-class decline [8][11]. Group 3: Global Trends and Inequality - The article cites a report from France showing that the income share of middle-class households has decreased from 65% in the 1980s to 54% in 2024, with increasing internal inequality [8]. - The OECD report highlights that the middle class has been shrinking due to stagnant economic growth, rising living costs, and a lack of job security for younger generations [11]. - The article emphasizes that while the middle class in developing countries may be growing, many still face vulnerabilities due to rising costs in housing, education, and healthcare [11]. Group 4: Sources of Middle-Class Anxiety - Economic growth and industrial development are crucial for middle-class stability, as they directly impact income and job opportunities [13]. - The article discusses how the decline of manufacturing jobs in the U.S. has led to a loss of middle-class positions, exacerbated by globalization and neoliberal policies [14][15]. - The concept of a "dual labor market" has emerged, where high-quality jobs are contrasted with low-quality, unstable jobs, making it difficult for many to achieve middle-class status [15]. Group 5: Financial Instability and Investment Risks - Middle-class individuals often rely on assets like real estate and stocks for financial security, but these investments can be volatile and risky [17]. - The article points out that many middle-class families have seen their financial stability eroded by market fluctuations and economic crises, leading to increased anxiety [19]. - The trend of "credential inflation" has also made educational investments less reliable, as degrees do not guarantee job security or financial success [19]. Group 6: Consumer Behavior and Social Pressure - The article highlights that many middle-class individuals fall into a consumption trap, trying to emulate the lifestyles of the wealthy, which can lead to financial strain [21][22]. - The pursuit of luxury goods and high-status lifestyles has created a disconnect between actual financial stability and perceived social status among the middle class [22]. - The pressure to provide expensive education for children further exacerbates financial anxiety, as families strive to maintain their middle-class identity despite economic challenges [23].