MFJ Online Lunch Seminar - Japanese Economy and Society "Work and Happiness in Japan: Macro- and Micro-Views"

Although the study of happiness has gained considerable scholarly attention across disciplines, happiness science continues to be dominated by the work of psychologists and economists. We argue that a sociological perspective can deepen our understanding of the interplay between macro- and micro-influences on happiness, and that Japan provides an ideal case in which to study how the social-institutional context shapes the individual pursuit of happiness.

We pay particular attention to happiness through the lens of gender, work, and family. More specifically, we consider how economic and social inequality and public policy provide the context shaping the individual-level associations among work, gender, family life, leisure activities and well-being. We ask questions about how recent changes to Japan’s social insurance and other family policies have the potential to influence both work hours and time spent with family and how this may impact well-being. We consider how economic inequality affects the well-being of high-income workers and low-income workers differently. We review research on the impact of national work hours on the well-being of men versus women, and across different birth cohorts.

Looking to the future, we consider the possibility that an attention to happiness may lead to greater productivity at work and ultimately greater happiness. We conclude with a discussion of the data and methodological innovations needed to move this field of study forward.

Intervenant(s)

Hiroshi OnoProfessor at Hitotsubashi Univ. Business School

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