IMO key is the cost of shelter. In all the desirable locations with good jobs the cost of accommodation rises so much that even well earning middle class in uncertain of their future. There is a number of key services and goods everyone needs: somewhere warm to sleep, some food, and healthcare. If people weren't constantly worried that they will lack this the whole nonsensical piramid of useless work would fall apart and everyone would be much happier

Another approach could be to work for 25 years at full time then 25 doing nothing, instead of 50 years part time.

I've heard this approach called FIRE - financial independence, retire early.

Yeah, taxes make that hard where I am. Better to work part time

Your point about taxation which is usually progressive is well taken.

It could be offset by the fact that you could invest the money from the first 25 years thus benefitting from a compound return.

I don't know which has the bigger effect.

Very much depends on your country and your particular tax situation, of course. The US is pretty good for FIRE (aside from dealing with health insurance). Ireland (where I live) is terrible, by comparison.