Japan Avoids the Unpredictable

It is very common to refer to Japan as a closed country, where change occurs very slowly or is practically nil, where care for the traditional borders on fanaticism, etc. But this does not take into account the large number of factors that shape society, not just Japan.

Japan, at the same time, enjoys world fame for technological and scientific innovation, often mentioning how Japan “lives in the future”

This would seem like an absolute contradiction, but there is a particularly important factor that is often not mentioned along with these characteristics. And it is that Japan, or its society to be more precise, avoid the unpredictable. Always within the range of what is possible, they will seek to anticipate possible resolutions to a situation or action, taking the time they deem necessary to make any changes.

It must be remembered that Japan is in a very delicate geographical situation. Extremely telluric, volcanic, with seasons of strong typhoons and tsunami that constantly stalk the coastal towns. Japan grew through the centuries, as a society always alert to signs that would help them predict these imminent threats, seeking to reduce the damage caused.

It is impossible to totally predict or zero out damage, but they will always prevent you from being caught totally off guard. Constant drills at the personal, family, company, community, city, etc. of all types of disasters, construction requirements with the most recent preventive technology, etc. All this concentration on avoiding the unpredictable extends to other points of life and society.

Sudden changes, too fast, too wide, can cause damage as great as that of an earthquake, so they will only be carried out in extreme need, after preparing for possible difficulties, and with the mental clarity that something can go wrong. . When Japan decides to make a change, it is not because it is totally safe, but because the possible negative repercussions are known and understood, and prevention or recovery plans are in place.

Venturing out should not mean potential suicide. Japan has survived numerous catastrophes that would have “broken” many societies during its history, avoiding the unpredictable is a position of experience, not intransigence.