The relentless pursuit of economic growth often overshadows crucial aspects of human well-being. In contemporary Japan, the issue of karoshi, or death from overwork, remains a stark reminder of this imbalance. The pressure to succeed, coupled with a rigid work culture, pushes many individuals to their physical and mental limits. This phenomenon is intricately linked to individual life planning and societal structures. For young people entering the workforce, the pressure to conform to societal expectations regarding career paths and financial stability can lead to a narrow and inflexible life plan. The dream of homeownership, often associated with stability and success, can contribute to the relentless pursuit of work, further intensifying the risk of karoshi. Furthermore, the aging population and declining birthrate in Japan have created a surplus of abandoned properties and underdeveloped land in rural areas, highlighting another critical issue – land regeneration. Land regeneration initiatives aim to revitalize these areas by attracting new residents, businesses, and investment. This not only addresses the economic challenges but also seeks to improve the quality of life for those who choose to live and work in these communities. However, successful land regeneration often requires a significant investment of time, effort, and resources, diverting attention and resources from other pressing issues such as addressing the karoshi problem. The question then becomes: how can we strike a balance between economic revitalization and the well-being of individuals? Can we create a society where individual life plans and societal goals are not mutually exclusive, but rather mutually supportive? The interconnectedness of karoshi, life planning, and land regeneration demands a holistic approach. Addressing these challenges requires a fundamental shift in societal values, a reevaluation of work-life balance, and a commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future for all. This involves supporting policies that promote mental health awareness, encourage work-life harmony, and provide adequate resources for land regeneration efforts that simultaneously foster community well-being.
1. According to the passage, what is one of the significant factors contributing to the high incidence of karoshi in Japan?
2. How does the passage connect the issue of karoshi to the problem of land regeneration?
3. What is the author's proposed solution to the interconnected problems discussed in the passage?
4. What is the main idea of the passage?