Programs

Opening speeches by the organizers: The University of Tokyo and the Chey Institute of Advanced Studies

Prosperity Without Democracy: Rethinking Modernization Theory in the 21st Century

｜Exploring Democracy and Capitalism｜

Modernization theory posits that economic growth fosters democracy. Yet recent global developments cast doubt on this assumption. Non-democratic regimes such as China and Vietnam have achieved sustained growth, while countries like India and Turkey have experienced democratic backsliding. Even within established democracies, far-right parties have been gaining ground. In much of the Global South, hybrid regimes that combine electoral practices with authoritarian measures are increasingly prevalent, further complicating the relationship between prosperity and democracy. This session reconsiders the contemporary relevance of modernization theory and examines new perspectives on the evolving interplay between capitalism and political systems.

Exploring Sustainable Models of Capitalism for a New Era

This session brings together leading business figures from Japan and Korea to examine whether today’s prevailing model of capitalism remains sustainable. Drawing on perspectives from business, startups, and academia, the discussion will consider what a renewed model of capitalism for a new era might look like. Finally, it will explore how Japan–Korea cooperation can help support and advance these new approaches.

Rethinking Academic Capitalism: The Crisis of US Universities and the Global Future of Higher Education

｜Exploring Academic Capitalism｜

Universities in the US have long been the intellectual hub for researchers around the world and at the forefront of diversity and inclusion efforts. But they are under pressure from their own government, with threats to cut federal funding and halt the influx of international students.
If the universities rely more on private capital for research, what implications would this have on the integrity of higher education? The panel explores the relationship between capitalism and education.

Navigating the Tapestry of Transformative Change: Degrowth, Wellbeing and a Future Beyond Economic Expansion

｜Exploring Sustainability and Capitalism｜

For decades, the mantra has been: dig more, produce more, spend more. While this recipe for growth has generated wealth for some, it has also driven environmental degradation and widening inequality, bringing humanity to the brink of an existential crisis.

Over the past few months, 19 university students from South Korea and UTokyo, working in five different groups, have conducted research and engaged in discussions on capitalism. In this session, each group will present their findings and share insights gained from this international joint project.

Capitalism and Space Resources: Institutional, Ethical, and Scientific Perspectives

｜Exploring Space Capitalism｜

Space exploration was once a symbol of national pride and power. Now, entrepreneurs are entering this sphere, turning outer space into a new economic frontier. Will space activities lead us to redefine capitalism? Or, will capitalism transform the landscape of the cosmic frontier? The expert panel on space law and space exploration will probe space capitalism from ethical, institutional, and scientific viewpoints.

Dialogues for Tomorrow