Thoughts on International & Global Education
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Musings on Japanese and Ryukyu Budo
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International & Global Education
Having spent over two decades in Japan and yet remained connected to the outside world I am never surprised to see people, who have never set foot in Japan romanticise about the Samurai Soul of Japan. Below I offer a personal reflection on these so-called vales and offer some personal thought on why all that glitters may not be gold when it comes to these 'samurai values'. Indeed it is by no means an accident that the working man in Japan called ubiquitously 'the salary man" is presented as a modern, corporate samurai.
The enduring romanticization of the Samurai and their virtues has left a profound and multifaceted impact on the well-being of the Japanese populace. This fascination with the Samurai not only perpetuates outdated values and fosters rigidity but also exacerbates workplace and school-related issues, including overworking, mental health challenges, suicide, and bullying. This discourse delves into these complex implications of the continued romanticization of the Samurai. I. Perpetuation of Antiquated Values The romanticized image of the Samurai often entails the glorification of traditional Japanese values and customs that may no longer be applicable to modern society. This perpetuation of outdated values can hinder the well-being of the Japanese people by impeding their ability to adapt to a rapidly changing world. 1. Bushido and Its Ramifications The Bushido, the Samurai code of ethics, is frequently romanticized for its emphasis on honor, loyalty, and self-sacrifice. While these virtues can be commendable, their romanticization can lead to adverse consequences. For instance, the rigid adherence to honor and loyalty may discourage whistleblowing and the reporting of corruption in contemporary Japanese organizations, potentially harming the well-being of employees and the broader society. 2. Gender Roles and Discrimination The romanticization of the Samurai often includes an idealization of traditional gender roles, where men are valorized as warriors, and women are expected to conform to subservient roles. This perpetuates gender discrimination and inequality in modern Japan, hindering the well-being of women who seek to challenge these antiquated norms and expectations. II. Fostering Rigidity The ongoing romanticization of the Samurai can foster a sense of rigidity within Japanese society, inhibiting adaptability and creativity, both of which are essential for well-being in the modern world. 1. Education and Career Choices The emphasis on traditional virtues associated with the Samurai can influence education and career choices in Japan. For example, there is often pressure on young individuals to pursue careers in fields that align with notions of honor and loyalty, such as becoming salarymen, even if their true passions lie elsewhere. This rigid adherence to societal expectations can lead to unfulfilling careers and negatively impact overall well-being. 2. Stifling Creativity and Innovation The romanticization of the Samurai can also stifle creativity and innovation. The emphasis on conformity and preserving traditional values can discourage individuals from challenging the status quo or pursuing unconventional ideas. In a rapidly changing global economy, this lack of innovation can hamper Japan's competitiveness and economic well-being. III. Workplace and School Realities The romanticized image of the Samurai contributes to several pressing workplace and school-related issues in Japan, including overworking, mental health challenges, suicide, and bullying. 1. Overworking (Karoshi) Japan is notorious for its culture of overworking, often linked to the perception of diligence and self-sacrifice, values associated with the Samurai. This overwork culture is detrimental to the well-being of employees, leading to exhaustion, burnout, and severe health consequences. 2. Mental Health Challenges and Suicide The pressure to conform to societal expectations influenced by the Samurai's image can contribute to mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. Tragically, this has also led to a high suicide rate in Japan, with individuals feeling overwhelmed by the demands of conforming to traditional ideals of honor and loyalty. 3. Bullying in Schools and Workplaces The glorification of hierarchical structures from the Samurai era can exacerbate bullying in schools and workplaces. Those in positions of power may use their authority to mistreat and ostracize others, leading to severe emotional and psychological distress for victims. Conclusion The ongoing romanticization of the Samurai and their virtues, while celebrating aspects of Japan's rich cultural heritage, can also have severe and multifaceted consequences for the well-being of the Japanese people. It perpetuates outdated values, fosters rigidity, and exacerbates workplace and school-related issues, including overworking, mental health challenges, suicide, and bullying. To promote a more inclusive, adaptable, and mentally healthy society, it is imperative for Japan to critically examine and balance the celebration of its historical heritage with the need for social, cultural, and economic evolution. This requires a profound reassessment of the impact of the romanticized Samurai image and its role in shaping modern Japanese identity and values. Okinawan and Japanese Budo
1 Comment
5/19/2024 06:44:37
Sincere gratitude for this essay which helped me with a decades-long subject of interest for me. I practice Aikido (sandan) and Iaido (ranked), and I am privileged to own a nihonto created in Japan. I am writing to make you aware of a book I am finishing, "Tears for the Samurai." The narrative focuses on my Aikido teacher of over two decades, his status as a Shingon Buddhist priest ordained at Koyasan Monastery, and his family lineage as descendants of samurai clans. I will finish the book by year-end 2024 and am actively seeking a publisher in parallel. If you care to contact me, you have my email. My website is in process, needs updating, and expanded material. I live in Beltrami Island Forest in northern Minnesota. I have written three nonfiction books for John Wiley and Sons. thank you for your attention. I would enjoy hearing from you.
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James M. HatchInternational Educator who happens to be passionate about Chito Ryu Karate. Born in Ireland, educated in Canada, matured in Japan Archives
January 2025
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