Characteristics of the Japanese observed 150 years ago: strengths and weaknesses

It is said that the Japanese are diligent, and that image remains despite the passage of time. If you ask a Japanese or perhaps a foreigner what are the characteristics of the Japanese, the answer is probably the same: diligence. Undoubtedly, there is some truth in this generalization, but then , what are the negative characteristics of the Japanese?

Chie Nakane , the first Japanese woman to become a professor at the University of Tokyo, passed away in October 2021. She was a social anthropologist, famous for her straight-to-the-point conversation. She was not only the first female professor at the University of Tokyo, but also the first female member of the Japan Academy and the first female in academia to receive the Order of Culture.

According to his keen observation, the Japanese have the following bad characteristics.

• Focus on the company name instead of the job title.
• Inability to participate in logically developed discussions (prevail over opposing points of view)
• Put empathy before dialogue to maintain harmony

Again, there is certainly a lot of truth to your observations, at the limits of generalization.

Dr. Henry C. Mabie (1847-1918), who came to Japan almost 150 years ago, listed the following points as characteristics of the Japanese.

Strengths

The Japanese are diligent and optimistic in their studies, both at the higher and lower levels.

weaknesses

• Formalist, focusing on form over fact.
• The negative effects of being obsessed with formality
• Westerners take opposing views lightly, but the Japanese are relentless in their opposition, even cursing over trivial matters.

Henry goes on to say: “The Japanese are hard-working but formal. They don’t accept those who disagree with them and are quick to get angry over small things. At the same time, the Japanese are quick to forget, which can be a problem when it comes to becoming a leading country.”

eichi shibusawa , the father of Japan’s modern economics, was also impressed with Henry’s view and said that Henry’s view was insightful.

There are probably many Japanese who think that the views of about 150 years ago are still valid today. I would like foreigners who come to Japan to keep these characteristics in mind that although not all Japanese are like this, it can present itself and create difficulties in mutual understanding .