Rethinking the “Exploitation of Self-Realization” Model in Japan

The purpose of this report is to examine the problem of the “exploitation of self-realization.” In recent years, it is said that young people increasingly seek self-realization in their work. Masahiro Abe has analyzed the problem based on his own experience as a provider of motorcycle delivery service, and Yuki Honda has called the same problem the “exploitation of “Yarigai” (the word “Yarigai” refers to the pleasure derived from doing decent work). They point out that certain companies exploit young people who seek self-realization out of work. These days, such companies are called “black companies” and have become a serious social problem in Japan.

　　However, when we examine national statistics and opinion research about work and employment, we find no evidence that the number of young people who seek self-realization in work has increased in the past ten years. Rather, according to surveys by Japan Productivity Center, more and more company recruits claim that they want to work for a single company and do not want to change jobs. It is thus not accurate to say that young people today seek self-realization above all. This leads to the question of why the discourse of the “exploitation of self-realization” has become so popular in Japan even though the number of young people who seek self-realization in their work has not actually increased.

　　In conclusion, this report will bring to light how excessive globalization and the fluidization of employment have made many people feel unstable and unsure about the future. As a result, many people set a high value on stability and relief, rather than self-realization in work. Instead, national opinion surveys tell us that an increasing number of people seek work that allows them to make a “contribution to society.” This viewpoint compels us to rethink the “exploitation of self-realization” model.