Where have the feelings of love gone? Views of marriage among young elites 恋愛感情はどこへ消えた？若いエリートたちの結婚観
Today's young Japanese people choose potential partners based on whether their annual income and educational background match that of the opposite sex, rather than romantic feelings. This is especially noticeable in Tokyo. This is because the cost of living in Tokyo is high and it is necessary for both parents to work. Both men and women evaluate the other person's annual income and occupation, and if they are satisfied, they start dating and end up getting married. In my personal values, pure love is the ideal. That is why I find the current trend so bitter. As humans, are things like feeling comfortable with your partner a lower priority for young people today? Young people these days prefer the word cost performance. Marriage is probably more about practicality than love. Apparently, the ideal married life for Tokyo's elite is for a couple with high incomes to buy and live in a luxury condominium. Capitalist elements have entered even love and marriage. Or rather, it should be said that love and marriage have been incorporated into the capitalist system. The values of Tokyo's young elites are to show off that they are winners and members of the upper class of society in order to feel secure that they are at the top of capitalism.
現在の日本の若者は、恋愛感情よりも、パートナーとなるかもしれない異性と年収や学歴が釣り合うかどうかで選んでいる。これは、特に東京で顕著だ。なぜならば、東京は生活費が高く、共働きが必要だからだ。男性も女性も、相手の年収や職業を評価して、納得できるならば交際し、結婚に至る。私の個人的な価値観では、純愛が理想である。そのため、昨今の風潮は苦々しく感じている。人間として、パートナーと一緒にいて心地よく感じるとか、そうしたことは今の若者にとっては優先順位が低いのだろうか？最近の若者はコストパフォーマンスという言葉を好む。結婚も愛情よりも実利なのであろう。高年収の夫婦が高級マンションを購入して住むのが、東京のエリートたちにとっての理想の結婚生活であるらしい。恋愛や結婚にまで、資本主義的な要素が入ってきた。いや、むしろ、恋愛や結婚が資本主義システムに組み込まれたというべきであろう。勝ち組である、社会の上流階級である自分たち夫婦を見せびらかすことで、資本主義の上位にいるという安心感を得たいのが、東京の若いエリートたちの価値観なのだ。
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The Changing Landscape of Love and Marriage among Young Elites in Tokyo: A Comparative Analysis with the United States
Introduction
The bustling metropolis of Tokyo, a city brimming with economic opportunities and cultural dynamism, has also become a breeding ground for a unique set of values surrounding love and marriage among its young elite. In stark contrast to the traditional emphasis on romantic love, young professionals in Tokyo prioritize financial stability and social status when choosing partners, often neglecting the emotional connection. This materialistic approach to relationships has significant implications for both individuals and society as a whole. This essay will explore the factors driving this trend, its impact on personal and societal well-being, and compare it with the contrasting landscape of love and marriage among young people in the United States.
Factors Influencing the Shift in Values
The high cost of living in Tokyo is a significant factor driving this materialistic approach to love and marriage. With skyrocketing housing prices and a competitive job market, young professionals feel immense pressure to secure financial stability. This has led to a hyper-focus on educational background and annual income as key determinants of compatibility, often overshadowing emotional connection and shared values.
Impact on Personal and Societal Well-being
While this materialistic approach may offer a sense of security and stability in the short term, it can have detrimental effects on personal and societal well-being in the long run. Marriages based solely on financial considerations may lack the emotional intimacy and genuine love that are essential for a fulfilling relationship. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, dissatisfaction, and increased risk of infidelity and divorce.
Furthermore, the emphasis on materialism and social status can exacerbate social inequality and create a society where only the wealthy and privileged are deemed worthy of love and marriage. This can lead to feelings of isolation and despair among those who do not meet the societal standards, hindering their opportunities for personal growth and happiness.
Comparison with the United States
In contrast to Japan, the United States places a greater emphasis on romantic love and individual choice in matters of love and marriage. While financial stability is still important, it is not the sole determinant of compatibility. Young Americans prioritize shared values, emotional connection, and compatibility in their relationships, leading to a more holistic approach to love and marriage.
Conclusion
The materialistic approach to love and marriage among young elites in Tokyo is a concerning trend that warrants careful attention. While financial stability is important, it should not be the sole determinant of compatibility in a relationship. By placing greater emphasis on emotional connection, shared values, and individual choice, young people can create more fulfilling and meaningful relationships that contribute to a more equitable and compassionate society.
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