Japan is a 20th century world power, technologically advanced, self-sufficient, and independent. It has however been forced to adapt culturally. In many areas the adaptation has succeeded. However, many areas have failed. It’s dangerous to have a “mixed-measure” of progress within a society. This type of societal imbalance results in one area of society benefiting at the expense of another, and, paradoxically, reduces the degree of benefit ultimately gained by those hoping to reap the rewards. For example, birth rates have fallen dramatically over recent years, a case of more opportunities for women looking to forge a career as opposed to starting a family? Or are there other factors involved? An increased workforce would benefit many sectors of business and the economy, but it would have a detrimental effect on other areas of life which in turn negates the potential for any real progress, a condition that can be termed as “The social progress paradox”. Changes are needed if Japan is to expand its core base in education, business, and mental health care. Based on a psychosocial analysis, grounded in empirical data, this paper addresses these issues, clarifies the main causal factors, and offers recommendations for the future.
Peter F. D’Angelo (Mon,) studied this question.