Core Viewpoint - A mature society should accommodate lives that are "not so ambitious" [3] Group 1: Diversity of Social Needs - A healthy society is composed of diverse individuals, not just "elites" who thrive in competitive environments [5] - Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences suggests that human abilities are varied, indicating that not everyone is suited for high-pressure urban jobs [5][6] - Economic theories, such as David Ricardo's comparative advantage, support the idea that different types of individuals contribute uniquely to society, with no one type being more important than another [6] Group 2: The Danger of a Single Standard - The narrow definition of "success" in society creates a form of "social violence," limiting individuals' life choices [8][9] - The dominance of instrumental rationality over value rationality leads to a focus on efficiency and results, often at the expense of personal fulfillment [8] - Many essential jobs are undervalued due to a narrow understanding of success, which simplifies individual worth [9] Group 3: Supportive Systems and Culture - A supportive system and culture are necessary for individuals to choose a slower-paced life in smaller cities [11][12] - Japan's "regional revitalization" strategy illustrates how government initiatives can encourage young people to move to smaller cities [12] - Cultural shifts are needed to respect diverse lifestyles, moving away from the notion that only urban success is valid [13] Group 4: Young People Returning to Self - There is a noticeable trend of young people choosing to stay in their hometowns or smaller cities, reflecting a shift in values towards quality of life [14][15] - This choice is seen as a sign of social progress, as it indicates a focus on personal desires over societal expectations [15][16] - The current generation is challenging the illusion of a single path to success, advocating for a broader range of life choices [17]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the contrasting lifestyles and societal expectations in Japan and China, highlighting the pressures of urban life versus the appeal of a simpler, rural existence, and the need for a more inclusive understanding of success and personal fulfillment [2][4][21]. Group 1: Societal Changes and Cultural Reflections - The collapse of Japan's economic bubble led to a significant shift in societal values and attitudes, resulting in a "lost decade" that influenced both work culture and personal aspirations [1][2]. - The emergence of two distinct narratives in Japanese media reflects the struggles of young people: one pursuing success in urban environments and the other seeking peace in rural settings [2][3]. Group 2: Diverse Needs and Values in Society - A healthy society requires a diversity of roles and talents, as not everyone is suited for high-pressure urban jobs; different lifestyles should be respected and valued [6][7]. - The concept of "comparative advantage" suggests that individuals should focus on their strengths, leading to optimal resource allocation in society [7]. Group 3: The Impact of Narrow Success Standards - The article critiques the narrow definitions of success that dominate societal expectations, which can lead to anxiety and a lack of fulfillment among individuals [9][10]. - The dominance of "instrumental rationality" over "value rationality" in modern society often prioritizes efficiency and outcomes over personal satisfaction and meaning [11][12]. Group 4: Institutional and Cultural Support - Effective societal change requires supportive institutions and cultural acceptance of diverse life choices, ensuring that individuals can pursue different paths without stigma [17][19]. - Japan's "regional revitalization" strategy aims to address urban-rural disparities by providing incentives for young people to move to smaller cities, reflecting a commitment to diverse living conditions [17]. Group 5: Shifts in Young People's Aspirations - There is a noticeable trend among younger generations moving away from traditional urban ambitions towards valuing quality of life and personal desires [21][23]. - The article emphasizes that societal progress is reflected in the ability of individuals to choose paths that resonate with their true selves, rather than conforming to mainstream expectations [22][26].