Opinion

Pros and Cons of Individualism

By CHRISTINE CUNANAN-NOMURA

Suddenly, the latest buzz word in the Japanese media and among intellectuals is "individualism." It seems everyone now agrees that individualism is necessary for Japan to remain competitive, and that it should be encouraged from a young age by teachers and parents.

For instance, last January, the Commission on Japan's Goals in the 21st Century specifically highlighted the importance of self-responsibility and self-reliance in the 21st century. In its report, the group wrote: "It's all the more important that each and every person firmly establish his or her own individuality."

As a student at the International Christian University in Tokyo in 1986, I constantly marveled atthe differences between Japanese and Western societies. I was most surprised by just how hard Japanese tried to be alike.

Back then, many Japanese associated individualism with selfishness, egotism and a lack of team spirit. Individualistic persons were oftentimes seen as strange, difficult to deal with and too un-Japanese for comfort.

Such thinking greatly influenced people's actions. My Japanese classmates did not want to ask questions during school lectures for fear of standing out. And my homestay mothers tried hard to dress their young children in a way that made them indistinguishable from other neighborhood children.

Personally, I was very distressed to observe how many of my talented Japanese friends were forced to fit into "average" molds and to be less than they should be or wanted to be, just so that everyone in the class or work group could feel equal.

Having received a Western education, I was uncomfortable with this philosophy. I have always believed that, while people are equal as human beings, they do not have the same capabilities.

Those with more talents or special abilities should be allowed to develop at a faster pace or even in a different environment than the average person, and they should be supported and compensated for their efforts and results * even if this means giving them more than others.

These days, Japanese society seems to be doing a complete about face. Many Japanese now realize the merits of individualism and are trying to develop this, primarily through education.

Consequently, the Ministry of Education has been undertaking various reforms aimed at helping children find their own interests and abilities instead of forcing them to be like everyone else. At the same time, nontraditional schools like Takasaki Gakuen and Atmark Inter-Highschool are becoming more popular. Many Japanese companies, too, are introducing the merit system and fast-track systems for talented and hard-working employees.

Of course, individualism has certain negative aspects. Individualistic persons oftentimes concentrate excessively on protecting their own interests. Individualistic societies can be hard for the old, the weak and the poor. In such societies, it is "every man for himself." The strongest and most capable individuals benefit the most, to the detriment of the less able.

Nevertheless, I believe that individualism should be encouraged. Each person should live at his or her own pace and be given the freedom to find the ideal life.

Shukan ST: June 9, 2000

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