Japanese hypocrisy
“Some foreigners may feel overwhelmed by the many social rules and manners in Japan. However, at their core lies a spirit of respect for others and an appreciation for taking good care of things.
One example is the custom of avoiding the edge of tatami mats. Traditionally, children are taught never to step on it. The reasons are both practical and symbolic. Unlike the woven straw surface, the fabric border of a tatami mat tends to fray and wear out more quickly. In the past, it could also display a family crest, so standing on it was considered disrespectful.
Moreover, the word for “edge” (beri) is associated with “en,” meaning human connections or fate, and stepping on it was thought to bring misfortune. Even today, especially in tea rooms or formal settings, this etiquette is still observed.
It is a small detail, yet it reflects how Japanese culture often embeds mindfulness, respect, and subtle meaning into everyday behavior.”
And yet, the Japanese don’t have any interest in making things easier for others. For example, their train system has the most bizarre ticketing system. Car rental is as complicated as it gets. Car headunits are effectively inoperable.
You’d be easily convinced that they don’t care about others when the problem is yours, later, and their only sin is not to care through inaction.
They prefer to not know that empathy is both caring about how other people feel or how it might feel, and then doing something about it.
The result is that you’re treated with courtesy in the moment, yet abandoned to complexity later.
It’s a one way street. The Japanese love the iPhone for its simple to use intuitive one box system. They’ll take it from others but they’ll never offer it back.
offshore westerly 