The War on the Young: Perceptions of Economic Fragility, Alienation, and Wellbeing Among Youth Living in Urban Japan.

In the context of Japan's super-aging society, Gen Z face increasing uncertainty about their future prospects. Rising costs of living, stagnant wages, and a political structure that prioritizes the needs of older generations over those of younger people may foster a growing sense of alienation among the youth. This research project explores how university students situated in urban Japan perceive the so called “war on the young” where their financial futures and social prospects seem limited, and the existing social structures seem skewed against them in favor of the old. Drawing on interviews with students, this study finds purchase in applying alienation theory, toward exploring gen Z disconnect in areas of economy, technology, social policy, and mental health. By investigating the problem and solutions as voiced by young adults this project contributes to a broader understanding of how alienation shapes the imagined futures of younger generations in a super aging society. The session offers critical insights into the intersection of alienation research and futures studies, shedding light on the sociopolitical and economic challenges faced by Japan's youth and their implications for the nation's future.