**Exploring the Link Between Growth and Human Happiness: Is a Degrowth Strategy Feasible?**
After the end of World War 2, Western nations found themselves in a state of paranoia regarding the intentions of the USSR. The fear of Communism led to the adoption of social democracy and the creation of policies that aimed to establish a mass-consuming middle class as a buffer against revolutionary movements. This period post-War also saw the rise of mass consumption as a dominant aspect of life in advanced nations. However, recent research from Japan challenges the notion that continuous material growth is necessary for individual happiness and collective well-being.
### FAQ
**1. What is the research about the link between growth and human happiness?**
The research explores whether a strategy designed to reduce material consumption can still maintain individual happiness and collective well-being.
**2. What data sources were used in the research from Japan?**
The Japanese Cabinet Office conducts an annual survey on social consciousness since 1948, providing a rich data source. Additionally, surveys such as NHK’s Survey of Japanese Attitudes and the Japanese National Character Survey complement the research.
**3. How do younger age cohorts in Japan perceive well-being differently?**
Younger age cohorts in Japan have shifted towards valuing harmonious relationships over individual achievements as a factor influencing their sense of well-being.
### Conclusion
The shift in societal attitudes towards material consumption and individual achievements observed in Japan suggests the possibility of a viable degrowth strategy. If more individuals, especially the younger generation, start prioritizing harmonious relationships and living with less material acquisition, the assumptions of continuous growth for happiness could be challenged. This research opens up new possibilities for political and economic strategies that prioritize well-being over material wealth.
In conclusion, the exploration of the link between growth and human happiness in Japan provides valuable insights into the potential for a degrowth strategy. The evolving attitudes towards well-being and material consumption among different age cohorts offer hope for a sustainable future that prioritizes harmony and collective well-being over mass consumption.
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