Messages from Monthly Keidanren, May 2001

A Cry for "Japanese Standards"

Hisashi Hieda
Co-Chairman of Committee on International Cooperation, Keidanren
President and Chief Executive Officer, Fuji Television Network, Inc.

"Civility, courage, compassion, character," the things that American President George W. Bush Jr. emphasized in his inaugural address, are all virtues that were once Japanese.

The overwhelming problems that are seen throughout Japan today bring me to recall the strong-felt words of a pro-Japan, influential Malaysian, that was a long-time supporter of a "look east" policy. "When Malaysia became independent, we choose to look to Japan as a model instead of the west, which we viewed as the right decision for years to come. Meanwhile, the once admirable virtues of Japanese society such as diligence, harmony and civility began to dissipate, the lifelong employment system abolished, and menial labor looked down on in exchange for an ideology that worships the almighty Yen. We no longer have anything to learn from Japan, a country that decided to adopt a "look west" philosophy."

It is hard to determine exactly when "global standard" became the golden rule. However one thing is certain, the real meaning behind those words is "American standard." Even so, that does not make them bad. In fact, as Japan's strongest ally, Japanese industries have much to learn from the "American standard."

Japan lacks the ability to criticize, and it also lacks principles, which is one of the reasons that it has continued to rid itself of things that are truly Japanese. What Japan needs to do is gain the respect, and recognition of other nations on issues aside from just economics and business. It also needs to stop ridding itself of things that are "Japanese" or it may be facing some grave problems in the future.

The 21st century should be a time for Japan to make amends for its past deeds. It should also be a time for Japan to put together its own set of "Japanese standards" for politics, economics, and society that will be welcomed worldwide. Through these standards, Japan needs to make every possible effort to again make itself a nation that can be respected. The Japanese people have plenty of knowledge and creative ability, what they need again is the confidence to demonstrate so on an international level.


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