Involution, or 内卷化 in Chinese, is a sociological concept that originally refers to a cultural pattern that develops to a certain level, but cannot break through itself, and can only continue to develop and complicate internally. The term was first used by anthropologist Clifford Geertz to describe the agricultural stagnation and social complexity in Java, Indonesia.
In recent years, the term has been popularized by Chinese netizens to describe a phenomenon of excessive competition and low reward in various aspects of life, such as education, work, and entertainment. The term has also spread to Japan, where many people feel the pressure and anxiety of involution in their society.
According to a survey conducted by the Japan Productivity Center in 2020, 70% of Japanese workers felt that their work was meaningless, and 60% felt that their work was not rewarding. Many Japanese workers face long working hours, low wages, and high expectations from their employers and customers. They also have to deal with the social norms of seniority, conformity, and loyalty, which limit their creativity and autonomy.
The situation is similar for Japanese students, who have to endure a rigid and competitive education system that focuses on standardized tests, entrance exams, and academic rankings. Many Japanese students suffer from stress, depression, and suicide due to the high pressure and low satisfaction of their studies. They also have to cope with the social expectations of their parents, teachers, and peers, who often value academic performance over personal interests and happiness.
Even in the realm of leisure and entertainment, Japanese people face the challenge of involution. Many Japanese people have to work hard to afford the high cost of living and consumption in Japan, which leaves them little time and money to enjoy their hobbies and passions. They also have to compete with others for limited resources and opportunities, such as popular products, events, and celebrities.
The phenomenon of involution in Japan has been attributed to various factors, such as the aging population, the declining birth rate, the stagnant economy, the conservative culture, and the global competition. Some scholars and commentators have suggested that Japan needs to reform its social and economic systems, and to foster a more open and innovative culture, to overcome the problem of involution.
However, some Japanese people have also embraced the concept of involution, and have used it as a way of self-mockery, humor, and resistance. They have created various memes, comics, and videos that depict the absurdity and irony of their involutionary lives, and have shared them on social media platforms, such as Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok. They have also adopted a more relaxed and optimistic attitude, and have pursued their own happiness and fulfillment, regardless of the social norms and expectations.
In conclusion, involution is a social phenomenon that affects many aspects of Japanese society, and reflects the challenges and opportunities that Japan faces in the 21st century. By understanding and addressing the causes and consequences of involution, Japan can hope to achieve a more balanced and sustainable development, and to improve the quality of life and well-being of its people.
Tech Alliance edit team