Why are so many people in so many countries around the world drinking less? Tim Naimi on the spread of sobering research about alcohol’s adverse health effects, the tightening of economic pressures, and the myth of the moderate European drinker.

Last call

Notable decline in violence in England and Wales, with 65% of the decline attributed to men aged 18-30 engaging in fewer fights. This is linked to a reduction in drinking habits, with 28% of 16- to 24-year-olds reporting teetotalism in 2024, a 10% increase from 2014. The shift is global, with declines in drinking rates reported in several high-income countries, including the US, Finland, Japan, and South Korea.

Why are so many people in so many countries around the world drinking less? Tim Naimi on the spread of sobering research about alcohol’s adverse health effects, the tightening of economic pressures, and the myth of the moderate European drinker.

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Red sea

Why is China building so many ships? Brian Hart on its plan to turn overwhelming commercial advantage into military power.

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Requiem for a slogan

The Chinese Dream, coined by Xi Jinping in 2012, was meant to be a vision for a prosperous and strong country, rejuvenation of the nation, and well-being of the people. However, the reality has been far from it. The economy has stalled, innovation has slowed down, and real estate is in crisis. Young people are now opting out of the relentless striving and instead embracing a culture of apathy, with many feeling disillusioned and disconnected from the society.

What happened to the Chinese dream? Yi-Ling Liu on declining opportunities, increasing malaise, and a waning of ambition in the People’s Republic.

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