Japan should be a textbook example for any tyrant who wants to control their population. As Goethe accurately noted: "None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free". Japan has mastered the art of indoctrination. The control is not exerted through force or laws, but rather culture. This is smartly combined with fervous nationalism which claims that the culture of Japan is "immutable and homogeneous". This has several consequences:
- The definition of what is to be "Japanese" is narrowe and conveniently defined. It does not limit itself to ethnia and birthplace, but behavior. The ideal Japanese man is obedient to his superior. The ideal Japanese woman obeys her husband.
- Therefore, anything that moves away from the ideal of Nihonjinron (Japaneseness) should be attacked, ignored, isolated. Invidual thoughts or traits are suppressed (sexuality, originality, etc.)
- Since the Yamato ace is the best, then Japan is also the best. As consequence, any negativity or criticism isn't publicly allowed. This is entrenched not only in social relationships like the family, but all the way into academia and intellectuals.
- Even the highest echelons of Japanese society must follow the rules. The book "Princess Masako : prisoner of the Chrysanthemum throne : the tragic true story of Japan's Crown Princess" clearly depicts the obedience of the empress and emperor towards the Imperial Household, even in their own detriment.
- A combination of nationalism and culture. That is, if you aren't a fervor nationalist, you do not love your own culture. Since humans naturally have a sense of belonging, this feeling is co-opted by nationalist sentiments.
- The logical consequences of the mythical Yamato and nation of the rising sun, is racism and xenophobia. As such, foreigners become the perfect scapegoat, even though they only make up 3% of the population and hold no political nor economic power. This discrimination extends to the indigenous populations: Ainu and Ryukyu.
- End result: a deferential, obedient society uncapable of publicly criticizing the status quo, willing to do anything in the name of Japan. This is assuming they can first break through the veil of nationalism so entrenched in their society.
Japanese society is what every tyrant desires. It will be the last place where the revolution happens, as it is impossible for the Japanese to rise against their government. Japan is in a sense a nightmare. I
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