On April 16, 2023, a special forum titled “The Light and Shadow of Capitalism” took place at Teshima Espoir Park in Kagawa prefecture, Japan. The forum aimed to discuss the future of society, centered around the concept of "Social Common Capital" advocated by economist Hirofumi Uzawa (1928 - 2014).

Social Common Capital refers to a social framework that facilitates the sustainable economic and social development while ensuring the enjoyment of meaningful life for all. Uzawa argued that this framework should be a shared as an asset of the society.

The rich nature of the Setouchi Sea; hidden beneath its serene landscape, holds a history that has been overlooked in the pursuit of economic growth.
What is the positive benefit (“Light”) of the capitalism given us, as well as the
negative consequences (“Shadow”) that persist?

What can we do to sustain our prosperity for future generations?
This article presents the summary of a three-day visit to the Setouchi Islands and the Special Forum held at the end of the visit.

*Please see PDF file for full text and details.