France’s Figaro gives theories on why “the Left barely exists anymore in Japan”- 1. The LDP co-opted their most popular initiatives, 2. Labor unions cooperate with management, and 3. Japan’s “hierarchical morality” (where the concept of human rights isn’t really “understood”).
https://x.com/inlaforet/status/2031163259483496567
2 Comments
Demographics seem to be missing from their theories. The young people in Japan can look at the numbers and see how grim they are, a lot of politics will naturally spring from that fact.
That was an interesting read, in french and in the Japanese commentary.
I do not dismiss his sayings but for me it’s even more simple.
Japanese deeply hate changes. A big change is deemed scary and a small change is considered unnecessary because it does not bring a good ratio improvement/trouble caused.
Hence, since the left does not propose big changes but only small waves, Japanese do not see the point in putting them in power. It’s better to continue voting with the same one, same story, same disappointment, same consequences.
If the left was revolutionary, then would it gain more voters ? I don’t know. Big changes are scary but they are what motives then population to move.
But the last part of the article is very true. Human rights also called ningen jinken are seen as a derogatory term. Because it implies that a singular human might have more power in instance than the group. It is seen as unbelievable. What do you mean a fair trial ? Just shut your mouth and accept the destiny the justice gives you, don’t bring shame to the group !