Nowadays, many developed nations require workers to take on long working hours. Some argue as these working environments are likely to negatively affect the health and the social relationship of workers. Whereas others applaud the idea and this work ethic as it brings economic success. From my point of view, stressful hours and extended work schedules can lead to a higher rate of burn out as well as reduce productivity in the long-term.
On the one hand, some people believe that their hard work contributes not only to their country’s development but also to improving their own daily lives. They argue that developed nations such as China, Japan, and the US have higher GDPs, and their citizens can afford better quality products compared to those in developing countries. With more time spent working in factories, businesses can generate greater output and profit, which in turn can lead to higher salaries for workers. Furthermore, sectors such as infrastructure also benefit from a busier work schedule, as it helps accelerate construction processes and improve overall quality.
On the other hand, a long, work-centered lifestyle can be harmful to people, especially workers. Being subjected to 9–5 working hours without time for relaxation or entertainment can lead to stress, sleep deprivation, fatigue, and more serious mental health issues. Many overworked employees experience burnout over the years, and its effects often become more apparent in old age, with conditions such as dementia and insomnia. For instance, in Japan, there is a term—karoshi—used to describe death caused by overworking. Therefore, I believe that despite the economic growth such a work ethic may bring, it does not justify the long-term harm to workers’ health and well-being.
In conclusion, while long working hours are one of the reasons for a successful economic, the negative effects for the worker are not justifiable to reach the short-term by wasting their long-term healths