Japan is pouring resources into solving its birth rate crisis with bold moves like cash bonuses, free education, and even AI-powered dating apps.

But despite these efforts, the fertility rate keeps dropping. Why?In this episode of Conversations with Jim Penman, Jim breaks down why Japan’s policy interventions are missing the mark.

The core issue isn’t financial—it’s a shift in societal values and priorities. Jim explains how character, not cash, drives fertility decisions and why only neuroscience research can meaningfully change the trajectory.You’ll learn why financial incentives fail, how modern culture reshapes family priorities, and what a realistic, science-based solution could look like.

This episode offers an urgent message for policymakers and thinkers looking for real answers.What’s inside this episode• Japan’s pro-natal reforms and where they fall short• How attitudes toward marriage and family are changing• The psychological impact of work obsession and social alienation• The case for neuroscience as the key to character change• How Japan could lead the world in solving fertility declineTIMESTAMPS0:00 Introduction and overview of Japan’s incentives1:18 Current fertility rate and population trends1:45 Why giving more money doesn’t work2:28 How attitudes and character shape fertility3:07 The role of neuroscience in societal transformation4:15 Japan’s commodified relationships and emotional detachment5:10 The failure of government-driven dating initiatives6:20 The aging crisis and shrinking youth population7:00 Japan’s long-term trajectory if nothing changes8:00 What neuroscience research looks like in action9:20 Why collaboration with Japan could fast-track solutions11:00 How the birth rate crisis book aims to inspire real change📘 Learn More About Jim’s BooksThe Birth Rate Crisis – https://mailchi.mp/2472fbf43a4b/join-the-biohistory-foundationRead about Jim’s biohistory research – https://biohistory.orgGrab my book recommendation list – https://mailchi.mp/696ad4256ebe/by9dju86hg