Pros and Cons of Individualism
By CHRISTINE CUNANAN-NOMURA
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個性重視に対する賛否両論
個性重視に対する賛否両論
最近、個人や個性の尊重、といった言葉が
よく聞かれるようになった。十数年前に筆者が
日本の大学に通っていたころとは大違いだ。
個人主義にはマイナス面もあるが
それを踏まえても、大いに奨励されるべきだ。
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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
(C) All rights reserved
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