The myth of endless progress: why stagnation is our new reality
Let’s tell the truth: the notion that progress follows a straightforward, upward trajectory is one of the greatest illusions of our time. We are inundated daily with messages of innovation and improvement, yet reality is less politically correct.
Provocation against infinite progress
I know it’s not popular to say, but many crucial sectors of our society are in a state of stagnation or, worse, are regressing. Data indicates that productivity is growing at an increasingly slower pace, while real wages have been stagnant since 2008. Where are the fruits of this progress?
Uncomfortable facts and statistics
According to a report from the OECD, productivity growth among member countries has fallen below 1% annually over the past decade. This is not just an economic issue: social mobility is at a standstill, with 70% of young people believing it is impossible to improve their economic status compared to their parents. These figures are clear: the narrative of infinite progress is a farce.
Counter-narrative analysis of the situation
The emperor has no clothes, and I’m telling you: progress is not automatic. It results from political choices, investments, and, most importantly, a long-term vision that seems completely absent today. Rather than confronting real issues—from inequality to the climate crisis—we continue to seek quick fixes that are often nothing more than band-aids.
Disturbing reality
The reality is that we are living in an age of illusions. We are told we are making strides, but the truth is we are merely trying to keep pace in a rapidly changing world while remaining stagnant. Stagnation is not just an economic issue; it is a sentence for our society.
Call for critical thinking
It is time to rethink our concept of progress. We must abandon the comfortable narrative of constant improvement and start asking ourselves: what must we truly do to free ourselves from stagnation? Only through critical reflection can we find the path to genuine progress.