leather and prunella

Dropped Tourist number

2011-04-18T05:48:00.000-07:00

Tourist number have dropped in Japan, The daily average of tourist
arrivals at the two main airports in Japan has dropped to 5,000 from
15,500 last year in March. Foreign tourist arrivals at the Narita
Airport in Tokyo have dropped by 75% in March. In 2011, Japan had hoped
to attract 11 million foreign tourist.

If you are talking about the situation around Tokyo area, let's look at
this issue from overall point of view which includes not only Tokyo area
but entire Japan. If we get enough tourist number as whole number, it's
good solution.
No need to stick to Tokyo. Let's rely on other part of Japan apart from
Tokyo. In this sense, Kyushu is the one of the best candidate for
example, which is located in southwest.

Significant prefecture in Kyushu is Kagoshima.
The prefecture boasts a chain of active and dormant volcanoes, including
the great Sakurajima. There are a lot of hot spring bath, natural sand bath.
The climate there is a subtropical climate. They can enjoy Japanese
taste life -- Ryokan or Japanese style inn, Shochu or Liquor distilled
from various agricultural product such as sweet potato. It's not
necessary to visit Tokyo. Increasing number of visitor for southwest
Japan is straightforward solution.

Secondary, we can rely on cooperation with Korea as neighbour.
Geometrically, Seoul which is capital city of Korea is close to Kyushu
island. Just 1 and half hour flight. We can consider this as local
destination.
How about combination tour? two nights in Seoul, two nights in Kagoshima.
Seoul city resembles Tokyo since it has good contrast between
traditional and modern, industrialized environment, safe/clean and high
standards of living and education. Not necessary to visit Tokyo. Visit
Kagoshima via Seoul for example. Western people can experience Korea and
Japan at one time. As proverb goes, killing two birds with one stone.
Tourist industry in both nations are willing to share the benefit.

I don't need extream nationalism

2011-04-11T05:01:00.000-07:00

I'm going to take up nationalism today. In the past, I didn't have any
strong opinion about nationalism. But recently, I've have had some chances
to think it over. After several thoughs, I reached my conclusion that
today's Japanese nationalism is outmoded anymore, in other words, it can
be obstacle for mutual understanding in period of globalization.

Firstly, it would have a negative impact on the feeling of foreign
countries. The other day, I went to Yasukuni shrine for Hanami viewing.
It's brilliant and my feeling was full of herald of spring. I encountered
parade of military costume performer. Needless to say, a lot of foreign
visitors were included in audiences. I heard some conversation saying
that "it's weird" from foreigners. Apparently, this demonstration could
reflect Japanese notorious imperialism. I was so embarrassed.

Secondly, it would be hamper for business expansion and cross culture.
Let's take Takeshima which is disputed island for example. I was asked
my opinion about this diplomatic problem by my close Korean friend. I know
Takeshima has been controversial issue between Korea and Japan for the
purpose of hegemony such as exclusive economic zone. But I can imagine this
can be more serious as sentimental problem than I expected. If so, it's a
pity. I believe two countries are now establishing very good partnership
in business and pop culture. I want to consider that only tiny
percentage of people bring this issue up. I want them to refrain from
standing in the way.

In conclusion, I hope nationalism will not influence on mutual understanding.

After long interval....

2010-10-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

It's high time to resume my blog. Thanks to one of my higher-up' influence, I made up my mind resuming posting. He has own his blog and regularly updates it. No doubt his diligence and persistence are great! I can learn a lot from his effort.

Day 1st in Thai land

2008-09-03T05:37:00.000-07:00

Atmosphere at Anantara Koh Samui perfectly matches our image of south Asian
culture. It would rather go beyond my expectation. I'm very happy to experience
stay at Anantara. Facilities including garden, pool, room, lighting, BGM
are perfect! Besides, neat and clean! I thought I would be annoyed by
a lot of mosquitoes and bugs. But it's totally different from my worry
before I visit.
On the top of that, I don't forget how staff members are well trained.
Greeting(which is trivial but very important as Asian culture), English,
sophisticated attitude and so on. There is no room to complain.
http://samui.anantara.com/default.aspx

Which has the bigger impact TV or the internet?

2008-02-19T19:18:00.000-08:00

Both sources are beneficial to all of us as information sources. I believe that the internet has the bigger impact on our lives.

First, the internet is literally World Wide Web to exchange information. Information on the net is distributed from the four corners of the earth. For example, I can have a net meeting with multiple locations. One engineer in the U.K, other engineer in the U.S and myself in Japan. We can get this benefit through the internet. On the contrary, TV is relatively local operation restricted physical limitation such as signal transmission on air. Specific devices for satellite TV and cable TV are more or less needed. I’m afraid the flow of information is intermittent over continuance.

Secondly, we can access enormous knowledge in the world through such as Wikipedia, Yahoo search engine. You can choose them on your own decision. You can do it at the moment you want to know. However, TV unilaterally sends information to the audience. You are just given the information TV program feeds. Some of information is not necessary for you. You might not be allowed to access the information you want.

Thirdly, we can experience active mode to send information and passive mode to receive information on the net. We can easily send information to all over the world. However, TV doesn’t have any active aspects distributing information from individual. Bilateral information route is the biggest benefit of the internet.
In conclusion, I believe that the internet has at least great advantages against TV.

Changing in women's attitude towards their career

2008-02-07T19:18:00.000-08:00

These days, women have an important role in our society. I’ll discuss two aspect of this topic.

First of all, they pursuit their own career more than before. Performance based system, so called merit system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. In essence, this system is not a matter of gender as long as they can perform well. In this environment, the roll of women has been changing. I can relate to my work place. The number of female engineers is significantly increasing. In the past, 10% of all employees are female engineers. But it increases up to around 40%. They continue their career after getting married or having baby. It’s a good evidence that they pursuit their own accomplishment/fulfillment on the job.

Secondly, they expand their choices of employment. They don’t hesitate to take jobs under harsh condition such as long working hours and risky vocation. For example, at my work place, we have female security guard at the entrance gate. She is strapping lady though. In the past, only male guards served. But the number of female guards has increased for the last decade. I believe that the variety of women’s career has been expanded.

In conclusion, they enhance the possibility to play an active role in our society.

Why are Japanese people getting married later and living with their parents longer?

2008-02-04T19:15:00.000-08:00

Increasingly, getting married later and living with their parents longer have become recent trend for the last two decades. I’ll discuss two points here.

First of all, changing lifestyle of young people retards the time of getting married. Performance based system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. This system is not a matter of age and gender. As a result, it especially changed the role of young people. One of my female subordinates told me that she wants to pursuit her own fulfillment and challenge. She doesn’t want to be annoyed by house chore, allegiance to family for a while.

Secondly, people tend to live with their parents longer because of financial efficiency.
It is estimated that they need to at least \60000 for rent for 1 bed room in Tokyo. As for those who don't have any stable income, it’s beneficial to live with their parents to avoid paying additional money. I used to go to the university taking two and half hours for one way. I didn’t want to impose further financial burden on my parents.
Thirdly, privacy is well secured in modern age’s family. Before proliferation of nuclear family, sharing room was common. They couldn’t expect to have privacy. Now with changing lifestyle, they are given private room and they fell comfortable in their rooms. In this environment, it’s not necessary for them to live alone.
In conclusion, individualism and financial aspect change our lifestyles.

Take-san!

2008-01-31T15:42:00.000-08:00

I'm afraid that I don't know your Email address....

What will be more important in the future technology or the environment?

2008-01-31T15:41:00.001-08:00

In the past, economic growth was considered as the first priority, then environmental sustainability followed it. However, now that we are facing serious environmental crisis such as global warming and water shortage, we need to tackle with this issue. This is the grave concern not only for our generation but also for that of the future. I am seriously concerned about this issue because natural environment is our asset for mankind. I’ll talk about why the environment is more important than technology in the future.

First, handling environmental sustainability has been a significant impact on corporate sustainability. It seems that big corporation’s policies have been changed and they’ve tackled with environmental sustainability citing “CSR” which stands for Corporate Social Responsibility. This is a good trend. Companies are significantly sensitive to media coverage. Therefore, they will make strong efforts to earn good reputation from public. For example, the company I work for ranked the last place of the latest Greenpeace ranking system. The CEO issued instructions to all employees to take environmental deliberation into our consideration. It has become clear that through earning good reputation, we can make more profit. In other words, good reputation plays crucial role for corporates sustainability.

Second, I’d like to shed light on technical effort. Let me take actual example from my work place. I’m working on semiconductor chip design field. We design chips which are geared for mobile phone, GPS and so on under some criteria. One of fundamental goals is related to power consumption. As the first priority to save power, our design is constricted by how much power the chip is allowed to consume. This is an effort to hold buttery as much as possible for environmental sustainability. In short, this is good evidence that environmental sustainability is much more valued than technology.

In conclusion, environmental sustainability enhances corporate growth and technical improvement. We should positively accept environmental sustainability as the first priority for our prosperity.

Would you like to travel into space?

2008-01-29T15:54:00.000-08:00

Seemingly, I’m enticed by traveling into space. But, I’d say NO THANK YOU. Now I’ll talk about why I think so with using two points.

First, traveling into space is too risky. On behalf of engineers, I can definitely emphasize that no one can guarantee its safety. Let's take semiconductor chips as example. Semiconductor chips used in space craft should work under harsh condition – from extremely low temperature to extremely high temp. It's a big challenge to design robust micro chip which works properly. In reality, guaranteed temperature limit is at best from -20 to 100 degree. Temperature outer space could exceed the limit. Electric parts would malfunction at all. I don’t want to become space junk.

Second, I can’t find any sufficient motivation to travel. In my definition, travel is consisted of some factors such as enjoying interpersonal communication with local people, enjoying local food, traditional culture and so on. However, I can’t expect such an experience from space traveling. At best, we end up traveling along Earth's orbit for a long time.
In conclusion, I’ll have something to loose and nothing to gain.

How different will our lives be in fifty years?

2008-01-29T15:53:00.000-08:00

In fifty years, our lives will dramatically change. I can envisage that 80 year old lady serves us at Macdonald counter. I’ll talk about why I think so by using two points.

First, biotechnology or genetic engineering has opened possibilities that we might be able to prolong our lives for another couple of decades. With medical improvement, age to be over the hill is extended. The life expectancy around WW2 was 50 years old. Now it is over 80. It would extend to over 100 years in fifty years.
Age restriction is old-fashioned system before appearance of demographic imbalance. I believe we can expect huge merits from it. I’d like to shed light on two aspects here.

Second, the elderly compensate for lack of labor shortage. According to the demographic statistics, one in four in 2025 would be over 65 years old. Even now, we suffer from demographic imbalance. To solve this problem, to extend the retirement age can be good solution. The merit system has been installed for the last two decades. I believe the system is not a matter of age. Current 50’s and 60’s are still alive and kicking.　As far as people who are willing to work can bear fruit, they should be allowed to continue their career. Their contribution compensate for the shortage of younger work force.
In conclusion, the elderly play much more important role in our society in fifty years.

Is space reserch worthwhile or a waste of resources?

2008-01-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

Yes, I believe that space reserch is definitely beneficial to us. Many criticise it wastes of time and money. Priority should be given to other issues on Earth such as poverty and hanger. But I believe that space reserch plays an important role to improve our quality of life. Now I’ll focus two aspects of this issue.

First, we can expect great leap in technology. We will learn how to live and work in space. We'll make an effort to achieve space travel. Through this effort, we can defenitly achieve great leap in technology. Let's take semiconductor chips as example. Semiconductor chips used in space craft should work under harsh condition -- extremely temperature hot and cold. It's a big challenge to design robust micro chip which works properly. This effort enhances our technology.

Second, we can expect the secondary benefit for other pupose. Let’s take instant noodle for example. It is well suited for preservative food. As evidence, instant noodle was brought to space shuttle discovery. We would be able to experience three stars restaurant's taste in space craft/authentic Sushi/Tempura whatever. Through improvement of food technology, we can expect indirect benefit. It would contribute to hunger in Africa. It would improve oour food variety in daily life.
In conclusion, space reserch is a driving force to improve our quality of life.

Does money lead to a happy life?

2008-01-28T00:58:00.000-08:00

There are various definitions for a happy life. I believe that there is s strong correlation between money and a happy life. The answer to this question is yes. I’ll talk about why I think so.

First, money leads to stable life. One of my definitions of happy life is stable life without any annoying and worry. Let’s take net café refugees. People who don’t have stable residence and who stay at net café instead, we call them net café refugees. They don’t have stable job and they get by as daily worker with low income. Anyway, the fact remains that a lot of people are struggling with low income. Every time media takes up net café refugees, I can’t help thinking I’m very happy to own condo.

Second, as another definition of my happy life, it is life I’m able to afford what I want to enjoy to my heart's content. I love grilled chicken, Yakitori in Japanese. Yakitori with beer is the best matching. Way back when I was university student, I wanted to eat bunch of Yakitori from the bottom of my heart. But it was impossible just because I didn’t have any income if any, allowance from my parents. Small potatoes never satisfied my young big appetite. I consider that this is financial restriction. Now, I have enough income and all the money at my command to enjoy Yakitori. Having Yakitori with beer, this is the moment I feel I’m very happy.

In conclusion, I believe that money is important factor for a happy life.

Does a long life equal a happy life?

2008-01-28T00:57:00.000-08:00

These days, it’s very difficult to enjoy a happy life. I believe that a long life does not always equal a happy life. Quality of life is much more important factor than a long life. I’ll talk about why I think so.

First, the longer we live, the more the life of the elderly seems to be in danger. One of my definitions of happy life is life without any annoying, conflict and contention. However, I feel uneasy about the future. Demographic imbalance causes some social problems such as labor shortage, medical crisis, pension fiasco and so on. Especially for people who don't have any children like me, it’s a serious matter to handle posthumous chore. Whom can I rely on? If I become unconscious out of the blue, who deal with payment of medical care, handling real estate/bank account, informing utility sector about my death, discarding refrigerator/VCR, my cat and so on? There is no sophisticated system in our society. A lot of things would annoy the elderly. It’s no exaggeration to say that it’s not happy to live in such a low quality environment.

Second, We can have a happy life even if we live a short life if we have made a significant contribution or accomplishment to society or to the work we are doing.
As another definition of my happy life, it is life I feel accomplishment, fulfillment and contribution to society. I believe that I could contribute to society through technology. Because I have already had released some consumer products such as GPS, Electric train pass on the market. Of course, I want to pursuit further technical enhancement. But there is no limit. I’d accept my finish even if I’m forced to end my life in some reasons or others. I believe we can experience a happy life not to say long life.

In conclusion, whether our life is happy or not is not a matter of time. It’s a matter of quality of life.

What has caused the current dilemma of water shortages around the world

2008-01-12T14:55:00.001-08:00

I believe that excessive affluence has caused the current dilemma of water shortages. Trees trap and absorb water through leaves, trunk and roots. But when trees are cut down, the water supply is depleted. I believe that deforestation could be caused by excessive affluence. I’ll discuss two aspects of this topics.

First, excessively increasing livestock farming. We are in abundant environment that we can easily purchase meet on the market. According to one report, 40% of tropical rain forests in South America were destructed for livestock farming of the exported beef during these 40 years. If we abstain from eating meet, it would be effective to stop the destruction of tropical rain forests. We should a little bit forgo excessively relying on meat industry.

Second, land clearing. The rapid increase in the number of Slash and burn agriculture in order to produce food. Slash and burn agriculture is particularly important throughout the tropics where, when done properly, it can provide people with a secure source of food and income. Many critics point out however that when done improperly, slash and burn agriculture can quickly degrade large areas of forest which do not recover. We are too much in affluent environment. For example, it is said that 30% of lunch box sold at convenience store are thrown out. What a waste it is! Let’s reduce the variety of lunch box. We should refrain from excessive supply on the market.

We should not forget that we can get affluence in return for environmental destruction.

In conclusion, excessive affluence is absolutely dealing a significant blow on water supply.

Big corporations and environmental sustainability

2008-01-12T14:54:00.001-08:00

First, the establishment of evaluation system. It seems that big corporation’s policies have been changed and they’ve tackled with environmental sustainability citing “CSR” which stands for Corporate Social Responsibility. This is a good trend. But to extend this trend further, I propose establishment of evaluation/ranking system. I believe, audit body formed by media/authorities as watchdog is effective. Companies are significantly sensitive to media coverage. Therefore, they will make strong efforts to earn good reputation from public. For example, the company I work for ranked the last place of the latest Greenpeace ranking system. The CEO issued instructions to all employees to take environmental deliberation into our consideration. It has become clear that through earning good reputation, we can make more profit. In other words, good reputation plays vital role for making profit. Nowadays, handling environmental sustainability has been a significant impact on corporate sustainability.

Second, I’d like to shed light on technical effort. Let me take actual example from my work place. I’m working on semiconductor chip design field. We design chips which are geared for mobile phone, GPS and so on under some criteria. One of fundamental goals is related to power consumption. As the first priority to save power, our design is constricted by how much power the chip is allowed to consume. This is an effort to hold buttery as much as possible for environmental sustainability. In short, we create better products and offer better service to customers through this kind of improvement.

In conclusion, environmental sustainability enhances corporate growth and technical improvement. We should positively accept environmental sustainability as the first priority for our prosperity.

Assisting the victims of natural disasters

2008-01-12T14:48:00.000-08:00

Natural disasters frequently occurred in this world. I’ll discuss three aspects of this topic. Human resources, relief supply and money.

First, dispatch SDF troops. For example, several big earthquakes hit Niigata area. Every time SDF troops were dispatched to the relief activity.

Second, relief supply. I’d like to focus on food supply. For example, I propose a tiny fraction of excessive food should be supplied to the victims. It is said that 30% of lunch box sold at convenience store are thrown out. What a waste it is! We prepare more than we consume. What we don’t consume is thrown away. I’m not saying that leftover should be supplied. I’d like to shed light on the potential to feed.

Third, fund a relief effort. It’s efficient to use celebrity’s high profile to raise funds. For example, the world’s tennis top-ranked player-- Roger Federer. In the Indian Ocean tsunami disaster’s aftermath, he used his high profile to bring the world’s attention to their plight. He established the Roger Federer Foundation to fund projects benefiting the victims.

In conclusion, thress factors could contribute to assisting the victims of natural disasters

Who is threatening the preservation of nature on the planet today?

2008-01-11T16:53:00.000-08:00

I belive that human activity threatens the preservation of nature on the planet. Excessive affluence in daily life accerates deforestation. As the result, it generates environmental destruction such as water shortage, global warming and so on. I’ll discuss two aspects of this topic.

Second, the rapid increase in the number of Slash and burn agriculture in order to produce food. Slash and burn agriculture is particularly important throughout the tropics where, when done properly, it can provide people with a secure source of food and income. Many critics point out however that when done improperly, slash and burn agriculture can quickly degrade large areas of forest which do not recover. We are too much in affluent environment. For example, it is said that 30% of lunch box sold at convenience store are thrown out. What a waste it is! Let’s reduce the variety of lunch box. We should refrain from excessive supply on the market.

We should not forget that we can get affluence in return for environmental destruction.

In conclusion, excessive affluence could deal a significant blow on the preservation of nature on the planet today.

What are the main environmental concerns facing Japan?

2008-01-09T01:27:00.001-08:00

First, garbage problem. As a negative aspect of affluence, garbage has increased among us. This becomes serious problem. For example, illegal dumping of unused electronic products and unused cars. As another case, let’s take Mt. Fuji for example.

The beautiful Mt. Fuji has not been appointed as a World Heritage site. It is believed to be because too much garbage is left on the mountain. To prevent them, it’s important to raise citizen’s awareness. Excursion to Mt. Fuji for students and tour to the place where unused stuffs are thrown out for citizens.

Second, global warming specifically hit Japan. For example, if we excessively use air conditioner to cool down, it would accerate global warming. Besides, economy in Japan would be damaged by the increasing price of natural resources such as fossil fuels and Uranium. Because we need a lot of power supply according to the increasing power needs. However, Japan heavily relies on the import of natural resources. Economy in Japan is too vulnerable against price fluctuation.

If we don’t use air conditioner, it would degrade the productivity among international market. At my work place, temperature is set to 30 degree in summer. Every engineer works dripping with sweat. Apparently, inefficiency influences on our productivity.

I can’t imagine without any air condition.

In conclusion, garbage problem and global warming severely hit Japan.

Is it possible to stop the destruction of tropical rain forests?

2008-01-05T17:59:00.000-08:00

The answer to this question is yes. I believe that it is possible to stop the destruction of tropical rain forests by changing our modern living habit. I’d like to talk about how to deal with this issue by using two points.

First, let’s abstain from eating meet. Let’s reduce livestock farming as much as possible. According to one report, 40% of tropical rain forests in South America were destructed for livestock farming of the exported beef during these 40 years. If we abstain from eating meet, it would be effective to stop the destruction of tropical rain forests.

I’m not saying that we should become vegetarian. But we should a little bit forgo excessively relying on meat industry.

Second, let’s avoid the rapid increase in the number of Slash and burn agriculture in order to produce food. Slash and burn agriculture is particularly important throughout the tropics where, when done properly, it can provide people with a secure source of food and income. Many critics point out however that when done improperly, slash and burn agriculture can quickly degrade large areas of forest which do not recover. We are too much in affluent environment. For example, it is said that 30% of lunch box sold at convenience store are thrown out. What a waste it is! Let’s reduce the variety of lunch box. We should refrain from excessive supply on the market.

We should not forget that we can get affluence in return for environmental destruction.

In conclusion, we should have patience against inconvenience. I believe that we can stop the destruction by changing living habit.

Should students be educated differently based on intellectual ability?

2008-01-02T16:12:00.000-08:00

I believe that students should be educated differently based on intellectual ability. It’s important to secure efficiency for education activity.

First, for higher level intelligence group, it’s a waste of time to repeatedly learn fundamental subjects they easily master. For example, I was good at Physics in my high school days. I could easily master fundamental issues of Physics. I was driven by curiosity to know higher level subject such as Einstein' equation. I used to teach myself through reading book.

Learning fundamental subjects could hamper further development of my interest.

On the other hand, for lower level intelligence group, it’s also a waste of time to learn subjects they can understand at all. For example, Chemistry was weak subject in my high school days. I could not master fundamental issues of Chemistry. Actually, my grade was pretty bad. I could manage to get the grade to graduate. But it’s far beyond my ability to learn higher level Chemistry. The opposite is also true. I don’t want to hamper other student’s progress.

Besides, we can expect to reduce teacher’s burden. They can specifically focus on either higher or lower level subject. We can avoid distraction of their efforts.

In conclusion, to avoid inconvenience for both sides, students should be educated differently based on intellectual ability.

Why do you think bullying is increasingly a problem in today's schools?

2008-01-02T15:06:00.000-08:00

Today, school bullying has become one of the most serious social phenomena which we need to resolve as soon as possible.

This is the concern not only for our generation but also for that of the future. I am seriously concerned about this issue because children are our future and if we don’t prevent the deaths from the bullying, we will lose our future asset.

First, labor shortage. According to the demographic statistics, one in four in 2025 would be over 65 years old. Even now, we suffer from demographic imbalance. Absolute denominator of entire population is becoming small. Among this environment, loosing work force due to mental illness makes the matter worse.

Second, a few successors for technology and craftsmanship would be serious crisis in our society. Besides, it’s difficult for young generation to succeed so-called high technology. Apparently, we end up loosing one personnel to succeed our accumulated knowledge and experience. Nowadays, high technology such as mobile phone with multiple functions is so complicated. Younger engineers need time to master the distinguished knowledge and enhance it. I’m worry about whether we have time to succeed.

In conclusion, we will lose national strength in international market if we don’t take measures on this problem. Bullying existed when I was a kid. But today’s trend goes too far beyond decency. We should stop our asset being degraded or oppressed.

Which is more important for children, emotional development or intellectual development?

2007-12-30T23:41:00.000-08:00

I believe that it’s more important to form emotional development at the first priority than intellectual development.

First, I consider emotional aspect is same as habits. It's very difficult to stop or change habits. As proverb goes, Habit is a second nature. It’s important to strengthen the emotional foundation at the early stage. To the contrary, we can change or modify intellectual interest later. For example, I hate conflict. I try to avoid conflict as much as possible. As is often the case, I end up compromising. But it’s better than stress caused by conflict. I did not change this emotional habit and I will not change. On the other hand, we can adjust intellectual development according to the situation. I didn’t realize the importance of English when I was student. But now, I recognize it with globalization and I believe that it’s not too late to make an effort to improve my English. We can compensate for the time loss if necessary.

Second, we need to maintain patience as a part of emotional aspect. I believe that more or less we demand patience to master something or learn something. Patience plays an important role to maintain continuance. For example, I majored in Physics in my university days. It was so pain in the neck to learn esoteric equations such as Einstein equation, Maxwell equation, Schrodinger equation whatever. Those are all basic equations to describe physical phenomenon. It’s tough to understand them. But my curiosity to know the meanings of those equations kept my patience. This is not a matter of intellectual factor but a matter of emotional factor.

In conclusion, emotional development is inevitable in education.

The importance of curiosity in education

2007-12-29T18:23:00.000-08:00

I believe that curiosity is vitally important in education. Its influence and contribution are significant.

First, curiosity can be a driving force to motivate us. For example, I can relate to my private experience. I’ve never lived abroad. I took conventional English education in junior high school and high school in Japan. I’m not in abundant English environment at workplace. But I’d like to know how high level such a person reaches at. It’s no exaggeration to say that this curiosity drives me to improve my English.

Second, curiosity can maintain patience. I believe that more or less we demand patience to master something or learn something. Curiosity plays an important role to maintain continuance. For example, I majored in Physics in my university days. It was so pain in the neck to learn esoteric equations such as Einstein equation, Maxwell equation, Schrodinger equation whatever. Those are all basic equations to describe physical phenomenon. It’s tough to understand them. But my curiosity to know the meanings of those equations kept my patience.

In conclusion, curiosity is inevitable in education.

How to improve the quality of education in Japanese universities

2007-12-29T17:00:00.000-08:00

I believe that there is still big room to improve the quality of education in Japanese universities. I’d like to talk about this issue from two aspects.

First, enhancement of English speaking ability.
I'm afraid we have to admit that English level in Japan is quite low. Especially speaking ability.
How poor it is? At one international Semicon conference, interpreter is
assigned to Japanese speaker against speaker's will. Not for Korean and
Chinese but only for Japanese! This is a good evidence of Japanese poor English.
Despite 10 years of study, many people still can't handle speaking English.
Language ability is evaluated by solely through written methods in the
heated exam. wars. To the contrary, EIKEN includes a direct speaking component. We should more emphasize active ability to appeal one’s opinion than passive ability.　
I believe that installment of Eiken policy in Japanese universities is effective to improve their English level.

Second, sending employees of corporations to universities as professors.
It’s effective to make students experience cutting edge business. For example, one engineer of Panasonic resigned and he became professor of Tokyo Univ. One engineer of Toshiba became professor of Chuou Univ. They are sending significantly competent students to us. In both cases, those professors introduce the state-of-the-art technology to their students. It’s also beneficial to companies because it’s not necessary to teach them from scratch. I believe that we should more install this idea to the university program.

In conclusion, we can improve the quality of education in Japanese universities through language program reforming and implementing cutting edge business.

Recent trends in youth culture

2007-12-29T16:56:00.000-08:00

I’d like to focus on two aspects of recent trends in youth culture.

First, what a waste too much frequently model change of cell phone is! Mobile phone products lineup are frequently changed every quarter. For example, some young people change their cell phones as if they change their clothes. Their cell pones can be still used and its function is no problem. Is it worth changing it? In Japan, we have boastful idea to all over the world in terms of waste. That’s a “what a waste movement”. This idea originates from Japan with 3R’s reduce, reuse and recycling. However this frequently model change is against the idea. It goes too far beyond environmentally friendly spirit.

Second, popularity of TATTO. The number of people has been increasing since the last two decades. Negative image still strongly remains in our society. It is said to be because TATTO is related to gangsters. Besides, it beyond traditional Japanese sense that bruising oneself given by parents is considered vice. However, new idea increasingly has been widespread among young people. They consider TATTO as fashion. Especially, they are influenced by celebrities such as famous football player -- David Beckham or movie star -- Angelina Jolie. I believe that it should be accepted as one form of fashion.

How is globalization affected the world economy?

2007-12-22T05:16:00.001-08:00

I believe that globalization promotes development by spreading technology and knowledge to all over the world. It positively enhances the world economy. I’d like to shed light on two aspects. One is for the economy in developing countries and the other is for the economy in developed countries.

First, investment/overseas operations contribute to generate job opportunity for people in host countries. I believe that launching a business in host countries or investment would be effective to increase their incomes. Besides, workers are taught skills and exposed to new technology. As a result, national strength of host countries would be enhanced. I believe that a strong industrial economy has been proved to be the best way to lift people out of poverty. This is significantly beneficial to developing countries. Let’s take semiconductor factory for example. Sony builds one semiconductor assembly factory in Thai land. It is said that establishment of this factory increased employment and boosted Thai land’s economy.

Second, the world economy has been encouraged by franchise system. I believe that one of the symbolic ideas of globalization is franchise system such as Macdonald, Seven-Eleven. Especially this business model has been penetrated in developed countries. We can find franchise chain shops at every corner across the nation. For example, Sushi, bowl of rice topped with beef, Chinese noodle franchise chain are typical in Japan. Launching franchise chain generates employment and vitalizes regional economy. The more workers’ income increases, the more its economy would be improved.

In conclusion, globalization is beneficial to both economy in developing countries and developed countries.

The most important characteristics of entrepreneurship

2007-12-22T05:14:00.000-08:00

My answer to this question is management skill. I believe that they already have had ability to compete with their rivals. But to sustain their business, it’s not good enough. Management skill plays an important role. I’ll talk about why I think so by using two points.

First, they need to have strong leadership to manage their teams. More or less, they definitely need to work as team by hiring some employees or large number of employees. For example, Mr. Ibuka who is a founder of Sony corporation. He established electric-appliance maker with just twenty people. After sixty years later, the company had grown into huge company with twenty thousands employees. He issued the basic philosophy related management. He emphasized like this. “Do not pursuit just making profit. But think customer’s benefit over as the first priority”. This idea has been penetrated into every employee. It’s no exaggeration to say that his marvelous leadership led this company to one of the world's largest multinational conglomerate.

Second, they need to have socializing skill. Literally, they are faces of their companies. They need to build a good relationship as representative with their customers. As is often the case of Japanese, when it comes to communication skills, they come up wanting. Japanese are always silent participants in meeting and party. If they fail to enhance their credibility, their business would be also at stake. For example, I’ve accompanied one of the executives of the company I work for on an overseas trip. He handled day and night parties in spite of great age. He was good at harmonizing. Since then, I’ve gotten my perspective that those who lead company need socializing skill.

In conclusion, I believe that management skill such as leadership and socializing is vitally important to entrepreneurs.

Japan's role in the development of third world countries

2007-12-18T15:44:00.002-08:00

Developed countries including Japan should contribute to combat poverty in Africa as a member of the world. I’ll talk about how we should support them using following two points.

First, Japan should contribute toward poverty by using food technology. I’d like to define food technology as tecqunique to preserve delicate taste for a long period. I believe that this technology contribute to preservative food. Let’s take instant noodle for example. The founder of Nissin, Momofuku Andou invented instant noodle. It is well suited for preservative food. As evidence, instant noodle was brought to space shuttle discovery. Of course, it contributed to hunger in Africa. Distributing Instant noodle as food aids is one solution. Besides, this technology could be used to preserve crops they cultivate.

Second, to generate job opportunity for people in Africa. I believe that launching a business in Africa or investment would be effective to increase their income. Let’s take semiconductor factory for example. Sony build one semiconductor assembly factory in Thai land. Establishment of this factory increased employment and boosted Thai land’s economy. This is just case for Asia but the analogy of this idea could be applied to the case in Africa. The chance of succeeding depends on environment such as geographical conditions, education, culture and so on. However this strategy would be one of the possible solutions for eliminating poverty in Africa

In conclusion, it’s no exaggeration to say that Developed countries play an important role to tackle with poverty from food aspect and industry aspect.

Should a person be forced to retire at a certain age?

2007-12-18T15:44:00.001-08:00

My answer to this question is NO. I am strongly against retirement at a certain age. It is too many to enumerate/list. Due to medical improvement, age to be over the hill is extended. The life expectancy around WW2 was 50 years old. Now it is over 80. Age restriction is old-fashioned system before appearance of demographic imbalance. I believe we can expect huge merits from it. I’d like to shed light on two aspects here.

Firstly, postponing retirement can be one of the resolutions for work shortage. According to the demographic statistics, one in four in 2025 would be over 65 years old. Even now, we suffer from demographic imbalance. To solve this problem, to extend the retirement age can be good solution. The merit system has been installed for the last two decades. I believe the system is not a matter of age. Current 50’s and 60’s are still alive and kicking.　As far as people who are willing to work can bear fruit, they should be allowed to continue their career. Their contribution compensate for the shortage of younger work force.

Secondly, we can secure time to succeed technology and craftsmanship. In some fields, age and accumulated knowledge are strong advantage. Researchers, engineers and professors may very well benefit from their many years of experience. It's very difficult to take over their experiences within a short time. Why is it short? In an extreme case, old tech is simple. The longer time goes by, the more technology is sophisticated. For example, transistor radio uses simple technology; to the contrary, mobile phone with multiple functions is so complicated. Younger engineers need time to master the distinguished knowledge and enhance it.

In conclusion, postponing the retirement age has two significant advantages. We can expect to secure work force and succession of technology and craftsmanship. These two are strongly related to national power.

If we don’t take measures on this issue, we will loose national power and competition in international markets.

How has Western corporate culture changed workers' attitudes in Japan?

2007-12-18T15:43:00.000-08:00

I believe that Western corporate culture has a great positive impact on workers' attitudes in Japan. I’d like to talk about why I think so by using two reasons.

First, demarcation between on and off is clear. Flexible working time as a part of performance based system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. The basic idea is to give someone a free hand as long as they can bear fruit. For example, it has been available at my work place. I receive benefit from the system. We are allowed to come to the office around noon. Especially it’s beneficial when I suffer from hang over due to too much drink of previous night. I’m allowed to leave my office earlier than usual when I need to treat bank transaction. This is the moment that I feel I have temporal flexibility.

Second, workers have begun to use logical thinking for the last two decades. In globalize world, logical argument and direct debate are inevitable. Japanese tend to use common phrase such as “We will try to think about this matter positively.” It includes ambiguity and it could cause procrastination in some cases. Even Engineers who need logical thinking, they lack convincing data for argument. For example, some of my subordinates try to design our semiconductor micro chip for cell phone without any reason. I always chastise them. On the contrary, westerners demand clear ground/evidence. They set exact time/due date. I believe that this is good aspect Japanese should follow western’s example.

In conclusion, Western corporate culture has positive influence on workers' attitudes in Japan.

Recent trends amongst young workers

2007-12-18T15:42:00.002-08:00

I’d like to focus two aspects about recent trends amongst young workers. One is mental aspect and the other is business manner. I believed that they are influenced by western corporate culture.

First, mentally vulnerable young generation. Performance based system, so called merit system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. As a negative aspect of performance based system, it generated stressful working environment. Employees are driven by the pressure that they need to bear fruits. Some people lack their confidence and they evaluate themselves as looser when they can’t perform well. For example, one of my subordinates who left our office due to mental depression confessed me that he was overwhelmed by excellency of coworkers and he felt inferior. I don’t think he’s looser at all. But he was annoyed by huge gap between his perfect world and real situation. It’s no exaggeration that present-day young generation is mentally vulnerable and they tend to suffer from illness of the soul.

Second, they lack of logical thinking. In globalize world, logical argument and direct debate are inevitable. Japanese tend to use common phrase such as “We will try to think about this matter positively.” It includes ambiguity and it could cause procrastination in some cases. Even Engineers who need logical thinking, they fail to show convincing data for argument. For example, some of my subordinates try to design our semiconductor micro chip for cell phone without any reason. I always chastise them. On the contrary, westerners demand clear ground/evidence. They set exact time/due date. I believe that this is good aspect Japanese should follow western’s example.

In conclusion, recent trends among young worker are characterized by two aspects. One is mental aspect and the other is business manner.

part-time work vs full-time work

2007-12-18T15:42:00.001-08:00

I believe that we should increase the number of full-time workers. At first glance, it’s beneficial to corporates to hier part-time worker because labor cost is cheaper than hiering full-time worker. But, I believe we can expect huge merits from full-time work. I’d like to talk about why I think so by using two reasons.

First, part-time work causes the lack of tax. Part-time workers, nonregular contract employee are a third of the overall workforce. Their incomes are relatively low, if any, unstable. Further more, we are suffering demographic imbalance. Overwhelmingly, labor shortage hits our society. This trend ends up having small net tax. We would not be able to eamark for medical support, revamp of education and so on. It would hamper the enhancement of prosperity in Japan.

Secondly, we can secure time to succeed technology and craftsmanship. In some fields, age and accumulated knowledge are strong advantage. Researchers, engineers and professors may very well benefit from their many years of experience. It's very difficult to take over their experiences within a short time. Why is it short? In an extreme case, old tech is simple. The longer time goes by, the more technology is sophisticated. For example, transistor radio uses simple technology; to the contrary, mobile phone with multiple functions is so complicated. It’s very difficult for part-time worker who work partially to master the distinguished knowledge and enhance it. Full-time workers have advantage because their working condition is stable.

In conclusion, full-time work has two significant advantages. We can expect to secure tax income and succession of technology and craftsmanship. These two are strongly related to national power.

If we don’t take measures on this issue, we will loose national power and competition in international markets.

When is the generation gap most apparent in modern society?

2007-12-14T16:17:00.000-08:00

In our society, we have wide differences in culture, experiences, opinions, habits and behavior. Now I’d like to focus two remarkable behaviors. One is for young generation and the other is for the elderly.

Second, blunt manner of the elderly. A lot of people criticize young generation’s behavior and lament the lack of moral such as bullying at school, eating food on the train and they don’t giving the elderly their seats. However, it seems that the elderly attitude would be more impolite rather than young generation. For example, I’ve ever come across the scene that the elderly orders his dish bluntly. Give me this dish! Bring it as soon as possible. I’ve never seen young people ordering their dishes with such a blunt way. Young people ，they can use polite expression such as “Can I have this dish, please” type. I assume that there is strong correlation between elderly blunt attitude and their military background or right-wing education. They were educated in hierarchical relation. They still maintain its idea even in postwar era. They tend to consider waiter/waitress as their subordinates. This is the moment I feel the generation gap.

In conclusion, it’s not exaggeration to say that mentally vulnerable and rigid attitude is remarkable in our society.

My definition of "Freedom"

2007-12-13T15:34:00.001-08:00

In my definition, “Freedom” is consisted of aspects. One is financial freedom and the other is temporal flexibility.

First, financial freedom. I love grilled chicken, Yakitori in Japanese. Yakitori with beer is the best matching. Way back when I was university student, I wanted to eat bunch of Yakitori from the bottom of my heart. But it was impossible just because I didn’t have any income if any, allowance from my parents. Small potatoes never satisfied my young big appetite. I consider that this is financial restriction. Now, I have enough income and all the money at my command to enjoy Yakitori. I feel I got finaicial freedom. However, I’m over the hill anymore. So the limitation is decided by my small appetite.

Second, temporal flexibility. Flexible working time as a part of performance based system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. The basic idea is to give someone a free hand as long as they can bear fruit. For example, it has been available at my work place. I receive benefit from the system. We are allowed to come to the office around noon. Especially it’s beneficial when I suffer from hang over due to too much drink of previous night. I’m allowed to leave my office earlier than usual when I need to treat bank transaction. This is the moment that I feel I have temporal flexibility.

In conclusion, I’m enjoying finaicial freedom and temporal flexibility. I’m significantly satisfied with current situation.

The importance of expressing oneself

2007-12-13T15:33:00.001-08:00

Japanese tend to hesitate to express oneself. As proverb goes, the nail that sticks up gets hammered down. I believe that this characteristic is significantly disadvantage. They should aware the importance of expressing oneself. I’d like to talk about why I think so by using two points.

First, it’s important to avoid inconvenience. Indecisive attitude without expressing oneself could cause procrastination or pain in the neck. For example, I often chastise my wife when we go out dining. She tends to keep food serve waiting to order her dish for a long time. She often changes her mind after they come to take our order. I always point out her that she should pick up her dish in advance and never change it. It ends up us giving inconvenience to them. It’s a waste of time. Besides, it’s against public manner as extreme case. Expressing oneself is vitally important to keep mentally healthy condition.

Second, logical thinking. In globalize world, logical argument and direct debate are inevitable. Japanese tend to use common phrase such as “We will try to think about this matter positively.” It includes ambiguity and it could cause procrastination in some cases. Even Engineers who need logical thinking, they lack convincing data for argument. For example, some of my subordinates try to design our semiconductor micro chip for cell phone without any reason. I always chastise them. On the contrary, westerners demand clear ground/evidence. They set exact time/due date. I believe that this is good aspect Japanese should follow western’s example.

In conclusion, it’s not exaggeration to say that expressing oneself enhances efficiency in daily life or business occasion.

Is America's cultural influence positive or negative?

2007-12-12T06:44:00.000-08:00

I believe that America's cultural influence plays positive role in our society. I’d like to talk about why I think so by using two points.

First, food culture. Especially fast food or dining out. We can expect to reduce burden for cooking. Recently, women have played important roles in our society and they pursue their own carrier. They don't have leeway to cook after work. In this case, dining out is effective to reduce their burden. For example, my wife has her own job. She is up to her neck. Therefore, I don't want to impose a burden on her to cook dinner after work. We usually go out dining when we have meal together. I believe dining out helps us to generate leeway in our life.

In conclusion, America's cultural influence is significant in our society. I believe that it has positive influence.

Is religion important in today's society?

2007-12-11T06:14:00.002-08:00

At first glance, we might be living in a secular society. However, I believe that religion plays an important role in today's society. I’ll talk about why I think so by using two reasons.

First, religion tells us the importance of life/the meaning of life through ceremony. For example, 80% of funeral services in Japan are held by Buddhism style, 10% of them are held by Christian style. In both ritual cases, the meaning of death or brevity of life is preached to us. We are living in fast-paced environment. But for this kind of occasion, we would tend to forget the meaning. I believe that religious ceremony could give us the opportunity to look back, reflect brevity of life and root of individual.

Second, influence on education or moral fiber. It’s no exaggeration to say that religion plays a crucial role for personality formation. For example, I can relate to my private experience. I graduated from a Christian University. The subject related to Christianity or the Bible is mandatory for graduation. I used to reluctantly attend the class. But one story significantly impressed me. That is “good Samaritan Law”. This story citing from the Bible implies that we should voluntarily help a victim in distress. Since then, I make it a rule to support those who need help such as physically handicapped people.

In conclusion, religion has great impact on today's society.

Are we too materialistic?

2007-12-10T15:28:00.001-08:00

I believe that we are too materialistic as negative aspect of afluence. Let me take too much frequently model change of cell phone as example.

First, what a waste such a frequently model change is. Mobile phone products lineup are frequetly changed every quarter. For example, some young people change their cell phones as if they change their clothes. Their cell pones can be still used and its function is no problem. Is it worth changing it? In Japan, we have boastful idea to all over the world in terms of waste. That’s a “what a waste movement”. This idea originates from Japan with 3R’s reduce, reuse and recycling. However this frequently model change is against the idea. It goes too far beyond environmentaly freiendly spirit.

Second, immoderate pursuit of convinience. It’s no doubt that convinience store is literally convienient. We can get any food, drink, magazines and so on at the moment that we want to get for 24hours. It’s beneficial to all of us. But is it truly necessary to open 24 hours? I believe that is’s against the scence of power saving. It could prompt night owl type life style. For example. an international franchiser 7-Eleven. Initially, these stores were open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. I believe that its operation hour is decent. Let’s take rest at night. As other aspect, they are also frequently converged in densely-populated urban area. In the vicinity of my living place, there are 4 convinience stores 50min radius.I believe that it goes to far beyond decency.

In conclusion, let’s stop immoderately pursuing wealth and luxury.

How has nature influenced Japanese art and culture?

2007-12-10T15:27:00.000-08:00

I believe that nature significantly influenced Japanese art and culture. I’d like to talk about how deeply nature has an impact on forming Japanese culture with using two points.

First, the most popular artistic work is graffiti/wall painting of Mt. Fuji at public bath. Mt. Fuji is a symbol of Japan a lot of foreingners can image. This is one of the greatest mountains in the wolrd. It’s often taken up as subject of art work. Especially, wall painting of Mt. Fuji at public bath is brilliant. It has been said that public bath has function as a place for social interaction. It’s similar to pub in the U.K. I believe that Mt. Fuji and public bath is the best matching. When I enjoy this combination, I feel this is the moment I’m Japanese.

Second, influence to family name/city name. In western culture, it’s common to name someone after Christian saint such as Paul, John, Michael and so on. Same as city name such as San Jose, San Francisco and so on. On the contrary, Japanese includes text related to nature such as mountain, liver, wind, rain, Mt. Fuji and so on. For example, my family name includes letter of mountain. This is good evidence that nature has played crucial role forming Japanese culture.

In conclusion, nature deeply penetrates Japanese art and culture. I belive that this is few and far between case in the world.

Do entry checks stop terrorists?

2007-12-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

I’m afraid that it’s impossible to stop terrorist. Some insist that a new immigration procedure obliging most foreigners to be fingerprinted and photographed works as detterrence. However it’s impractical to eradicate terrorism.

First, difficult to crack down on terrorists who pose general residents.

Now, we are living in so-called high tech age. It might not be necessary for potential terrorist to enter Japan. They can procede their activity as remote operation without entering to Japan. In this case, immigration procedure is useless. Way back when, North Korea used Radio signal on air to send message or direction to espionage agents who pose general residents in Japan. I believe that more sophisticated technology would be used in high tech age.

Second, full of inaccurate data. The lists are believed to include one compiled by the U.S. government and contain the names of 750,000 “suspected” terrorists. I’d like to express concern about how much we can trust its accuracy. The hostile structures are different between U.S and Islamic terrorist or between Japan and North Korea. Does the list contain “suspected” terrorists Japan intends to refuse from entering the country? How often is the list updated? I believe that this procedure heavyly rely on the inaccurate data.

In conclusion, I doubt whether it will stop potential terrorist from entering the country.

They can operate remotely. Besides, the lists are not trustworthy.

high income of sports player

2007-11-10T16:04:00.000-08:00

I believe that they deserve high income. Some criticize that it goes too far beyond decency. But it’ s worth paying.

First, reward for artistic play.

The world’s tennis top-ranked player-- Roger Federer.

His technical skill can be role model. He achieved ten Grand Slam men's singles titles. It is said that Federer may become the greatest player in history. His artistic play is beautiful. It’s no wonder that it fascinates young players and enhances technical improvement. Huge money is paid for artistic work. Let’s take art for example. $40 million for Gauguin, $90 million for Picasso. This sense against fine work should be applied to sports player.

Second, evaluated by the sponsor.

Let’s take Japanese baseball player – Daisuke Matsuzaka for example. The baseball club – Red Socks offered him $60 million. Obviously this price is based up on their own evaluation. The club is willing to pay for him to strengthen the team. As long as the clubs can afford to pay, it’s not big issue.

In conclusion, paying huge money is not vice at all.

Commercialization of sports(Olympic games)

2007-11-10T04:43:00.000-08:00

Whether professionalism or Amateurism doesn’t matter in Olympic Games.

First, this is where athletes purely compete. This is where we can enjoy artistic performance. This is where physical leap of mankind is enhanced.

In ancient Greece, Olympic game was sports festival in honor of Zeus. Festival in general should be enjoyable event. This is where all walks of life can enjoy. In this sense, we should not draw the line between professionalism or Amateurism. Why not enjoy artistic play. For example, I was so impressed by the American Dream Team, composed of well-paid NBA stars in 1992 Summer Olympics.

Second, more or less armatures also have a hand in money activity.

So called corporate amateur has been common. Amateur athletes gain from better training facilities, equipment and stadium. In return, they are used as billboards for the sponsor. For example, Kousei Inoue, He won the gold medal in Judo at the 2000 Summer Olympics. He serves for security company. We can see him on TV CF.

Amateurism is disappearing. This became hypocritical illusion.

In conclusion, demarcation between professionalism and Amateurism is blurring.

Learning Asian language and culture

2007-11-04T04:25:00.000-08:00

Learning Asian language and culture is significantly important for mutual understanding.

First, to promote interpersonal communication.

One of my subordinates is Chinese. His Japanese is brilliant regardless just 6 months staying in Japan. We don’t need to use English as common language. But I believe that it’s unfair to him to use only one side language – Japanese. I made my mind learning basic Chinese. I’m very happy that I’m in environment I can use Chinese if I wish. Simple Chinese such as greetings is good enough. This trivial effort makes our relationship close each other.

Second, cultural bridge. One of my neighbors is Chinese Tai Chi master. I had known that he has Tai Chi classes for the community. One day, I dropped in at the city gymnastic hall to learn his activity. I was so impressed by the huge number of people from the elderly to kids. He teaches 1000 citizens in total. What I was surprised most is his ambition. According to his explanation, he came to Japan as the cultural bridge between China and Japan. Both nations has bitter past. He wants to mitigate emotional conflict through Tai Chi. His young Japanese followers would play an important role to solve the antagonism through culture exchange.

In conclusion, learning Asian language and culture is effective to improve mutual understanding.

The biggest threat disease for mankin

2007-11-03T17:21:00.001-07:00

Economic point of view, there are two worlds – developed country and developing country. I’ll talk about the biggest threat disease for each world.

First, AIDS in developing country. More than 64% of HIV infected patients are in sub-Saharan Africa. I believe that AIDS is the biggest threat disease for developing countries. Medical point of view, the majority of third world countries would be unable to afford the drugs even at a breakeven price. Drug companies would have to sell their medications at a loss to make them affordable to most developing nations. I’d like to point out that education is also vitally important. Needless to say, education for safe-sex is important. But let me add basic academic skill. Let's take Literacy for example. The literacy in Niger is around 17%. They can not read the text and understand the warning. To the contrary, it’s over 90% and over. Especially, 99.8% in Japan. Apparently there is strong correlation between academic basic skill and infection rate. I believe it's important to maintain high level education.

Second, life style related disease in developed country. As negative aspect of affluence, life style related disease including obesity and diabetes hit our society. We are living in fact-paced environment. Our working time is increasingly longer than ever before. They tend to take high calorie food such as fast-food or not to eat lunch. Chronically improper eating habit causes serious disease.

For example, I developed gout a couple years ago. Gout is arthritis which causes pain. Usually, the joints in the big toe are affected. It is believed to be the result of gluttony and inherited. My case is diagnosed as inherited case.

In conclusion, AIDS and life style-related disease are our threat for mankind.

How does the declining number of student affect education

2007-11-03T02:49:00.000-07:00

From the quality point of view, we can expect huge merits through the declining number of student.

Firstly, teachers can spend much time for each student. It could bring high quality of education.

Education at ease has been hot potato in our society for the last decade. The number of classes was cut and the education system was changed from six day school week to five. But some criticize that education level has been exacerbated since the policy was installed. Academic skill was not learnt well by students due to less classes. This is the matter of the number of classes. But we can extend this analogy to the number of students. If the number of students is small, the contents of classes would be also sophisticated.

Second, generate teacher’s leeway. Teacher’s leeway is also important factor to maintain high level education. Currently, it’s no exaggeration to say that teachers are up to neck for handling various duties and problems. Those are caused by the large number of students. My wife is school nurse in junior high school. She transferred to the current school which has 200 students. One year ago, she served the other school which had 400 students. Physically, her assignment such as medical check up was enormous. At the moment, she has leeway to take care of students from mental and physical point of view. Now she can spent time to consult student. It leads better education.

In conclusion, the declining number of student has some advantages. Trough the improvement of the quality, we can expect to strengthen national power at the end.

Increase in so-called freeters and NEET

2007-10-31T06:26:00.000-07:00

Increase in so-called freeters and NEET is one of the biggest problems in our society. If we don’t take measures on this issue, we will lose national strength in international market. I’ll talk about why I think so by using two points.

First, it causes the lack of tax. Part-time workers, nonregular contract employee are a third of the overall workforce. Their incomes are relatively low, if any, unstable. Further more, we are suffering demographic imbalance. Overwhelmingly, labor shortage hits our society. This trend ends up small net tax. It would hamper the enhancement of prosperity in Japan.

Second, corruption to succeed technology and craftsmanship. In some fields, age and accumulated knowledge are strong advantage. Researchers, engineers and professors may very well benefit from their many years of experience. It's very difficult to take over their experiences within a short time. Why is it short? In an extreme case, old tech is simple. The longer time goes by, the more technology is sophisticated. For example, transistor radio uses simple technology; to the contrary, mobile phone with multiple functions is so complicated. Younger engineers need time to master the distinguished knowledge and enhance it. NEET which stands for Not in Employment, Education or Training, it’s tough for them to succeed distinguished technology. It would end up loosing competitiveness.

If we don’t take measures on this issue, we will loose national power and competition in international markets.

How to tackle with declining birth rates

2007-10-28T06:54:00.000-07:00

1. Nurture support for young couples. Women have had an important role in our society for the last two decades as advancement to society. It’s very tough for them to raise their kids with women’s persuading their carrier. Nurture support is indispensable including financial support and providing them with nursery center opened for a long time.

2. Promotion of immigrants. It’s effective to increase absolutely population denominator. The more denominator increases, the more opportunities to meet partners also increase. But we should bear in mind that women are not birth-giving machines. Government has responsibility to provide them with comfortable environment such as welfare, education and so on.

3. Support for medical improvement. It is said that having a baby over 40 is called granny birth. With medical improvement, we can expect to extend its limit. In other words, we could have possibility to have more babies through this extension. Government should support for medical research.

4. Part-time workers, nonregular contract employee are a third of the overall workforce, and 1 out of 3 is so called "freeter". Government should enhance the to shift activity part-time worker towards full time worker. We can expect stable life by having a stable full time work. Birth rate would be improved in the long run if people get stability.

Are wars ever justified?

2007-10-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

I believe that war is always evil. Some maintains that under limited circumstances it may be the lesser evil. We got to crack a few eggs to make an omelet. But it’s unreasonable to justify. I’ll talk about why I think so by using two points.

First, including contradiction. Article 9 is the constitution Japanese are proud to all over the world. “land, sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never be maintained.” This clause is ideally perfect to renounce war, show attitude not to repeat war. But nation should be allowed to defend themselves from aggression. It is thought that it’s not war potential.

This constitution is just symbol. I live in the vicinity of SDF camp. In some cases, I can hear the sound shooting sound. I sometimes come across Tank running and fighter aircraft formation like movie such as “Top gun”. I can't help thinking that Japan has war potential after all. The constitution has become outdated in the current geopolitical environment. The clause has to catch up with today’s reality I mentioned before. I believe that it’s high time to revise it along with today’s reality.

Second, exploited as business target. Imagine an Africa without two dozens wars over the last couple of decades. It might have been a continent of growth instead of the world’s poorest. According to one estimation, conflicts are costing the continent about $18 billion per year. The price that Africa is paying could cover the cost of solving the AIDS crisis, or provide education, water, and prevention and treatment for malaria. Thousands of hospitals, schools, and roads could have been built.That report also blamed the global trade in arms for fueling fighting. It is said that 95% of the weapons used in Africa’s wars are imported from outside the continent. War should not be justified in order to increase profit.

In conclusion, let’s put away the idea that war is necessary evil.

Imaging life without the internet

2007-10-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

Seemingly, it seems that life without the Internet would be beneficial to all of us. Because we will escape from bunch of junk Email, fraud in the net or slander/mental abuse on BBS. However, I can easily image life that we would loose national strength. I’ll talk about why I think so using following two points.

First, up to neck for handling chores. Let me take an example from my work place. I organize 4 meetings a week. Under current environment I can use the internet, what I need to do is sending Email to participants if I need to inform them of the change of time, location, meeting room or postponing. Without Email, I have to distribute the information of change as a bee. I’d like to concentrate on designing semiconductor chips. But This inconvenience could affect engineer’s activity more or less. It’s no exaggeration to say that it would hamper the great leap in technology.

Second, information collapse. Life without the Internet would generate inefficiency of circulation for information. To send message without the Internet, we need to rely on postal service. However, we suffer from demographic imbalance. The lack of workforce would damage the framework of postal service. Information would not be circulated at business world. Please imagine that 80 year old guy delivers letter, card whatever. It would impair the enhancement of prosperity.

In conclusion, there is no more life than life with the Internet. I’m very happy to enjoy life with the Internet.

Being honest is the best way to keep good relationship?

2007-10-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

My answer to this question is no. As proverb goes, the end justifies the means. Honest is not always the best way to keep good relationship. On the contrary, honest can make the matter worse. I’ll talk about why I think so.

First, to avoid moody atmosphere. Let’s take my wife and my self’s case for example. One day, I was just 30 minutes late for the appointment. I honestly told the excuse to her. But she was so upset. Afterwards, we had been in moody atmosphere for a week. Since then, I make a rule to impute to minor traffic accident for my delay. Dishonest scheme is effective for peace keeping in my family.

Second, good motivation. To my surprise, lie could be a diving force to survive. For example, my aunt case. She passed away due to cancer. All family members knew that her finish was close. She was not told that she had cancer. She had desire to visit her home town – Takayama city in Gifu prefecture. It’s one of the most traditional and beautiful city in Japan. I used to vitalize her by saying like this. Let’s visit Takayama again with me. I’ll take you there with my showing some brochures. This might not be direct cause, but she could live longer than Doctor predicted. I believe that lying can be more or less effective in some cases. We could keep relationship through her survive.

In conclusion, honest is not always panacea to keep good relationship.

Privacy invasion in modern society

2007-10-21T04:42:00.001-07:00

Privacy invasion has been one of the biggest problems in modern society. I’ll talk about how serious it is using following two points.

First, inappropriately obtained info/leaking info. A couple years ago, I delivered the speech at International Semiconductor conference. The dissertation I wrote and my presentation could attract attention from audiences and publishers. It’s welcome to be shed light on itself. But one editor called me on weekend and he was about to visit me. It seemed that my personal information was circulated in some reason or others. I’m afraid how widely my data is leaked. I’m not cerebirity or politician. But I could a little bit sympathize with them. Anyway, leaking info is significantly serious problem.

Second, exposed our daily life. For example, we live at the 7th floor in the 14 story cond. At my eye line, there is Izakaya. I can see people drinking and chatting. It is identical that they can see us. My wife takes off her clothes w/o closing the curtains. The more building is high-rise, the more the risk to expose ourselves is increased.

In conclusion, it’s no exaggeration to say that our privaxies are threatened in modern society.

Is Japan a comfortable country for foreigners to live in?

2007-10-20T18:01:00.001-07:00

My answer to this question is NO. Many foreigners might enjoy life in Japan and feel comfortable to live in. But over all, I believe that they are facing some difficulties. I’d like to talk why I think so using following two points.

First, accommodation issue. In Japan, we have a complicated system for rented apartment such as key money. This kind of custom is far beyond foreigner’s sense.

Besides, landlords hesitate to let apartment for foreigners. Because extremely biased image has been widespread among landlords. For example, Chinese don't pay money and leave without any notice. Westerns have a binge late night and so on. As a result, they would have difficulties to find apartment, if any they would be charged extra money with 10 to 20% more. So called foreigner’s fare. This is the one of the reason they feel uncomfortable.

Second, isolation at work place. Foreigners are given less responsibility even if they are talented. Let’s take example from my wife’s work place. She is a school nurse at junior high school. The school has a native English speaker as assistant. But, Japanese coworkers even teacher of English avoid talking with foreigners. I guess this is the result of Japanese characteristic. They are not willing to speak using unfamiliar language in public. Or they lack of social skill against foreigners. My wife doesn't hesitate to talk even if her low level English. She seems to support her forging coworker from simple translation to personal care such as how to get shampoo. But it might be a few and far between. Anyway, the turn over rate of English assistants is extremely high.

I believe that it’s a good evidence that they feel uncomfortable at their work place.

In conclusion, it’s no exaggeration to say that Japan is not a comfortable country for foreigners to live in. Japan is a good destination to visit as tourist though.

2007-10-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

How can we eliminate poverty in Africa?

2007-10-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

Developed countries including Japan should contribute to combat poverty in Africa as a member of the world. I’ll talk about how we should support them using following two points.

First, food technology. I’d like to define food technology as tecqunique to preserve delicate taste for a long period. I believe that this technology contribute to preservative food. Let’s take instant noodle for example. The founder of Nissin, Momofuku Andou invented instant noodle. It is well suited for preservative food. As evidence, instant noodle was brought to space shuttle discovery. Of course, it contributed to hunger in Africa. Distributing Instant noodle as food aids is one solution. Besides, this technology could be used to preserve crops they cultivate.

In conclusion, it’s no exaggeration to say that Developed countries play an important role to tackle with poverty from food aspect and industry aspect.

Does Japan contribute enough towards world stability?

2007-10-16T16:40:00.001-07:00

My answer to this question is no. I believe that there is room to contribute towards world stability. I’d like to take up environmental stabilities here. In some cases, fossil fuel can be a bone of contention. We need to efficiently use finite natural resources to avoid conflicts. I’ll take up two aspects here.

First, philosophy aspect. Let’s takeワンガリ・マータイassistant Minister of Environment of Kenya. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize by introducing もったいない movement -- what a waste movement. She introduced this idea to all over the world. But this idea originates from Japan with 3R’s reduce, reuse and recycling. She added another R. That‘s “refuse”. Japan can be a leader for environmental movement.

Second, lack of technical contribution. Let’s take recycling technology for example. Sony invented Polystyrene recycling system. Fuel oil is produced from CD, DVD and plastic packaging through this recycling system. I’d like to point out that Sony confines to use this technology for its own – so called internally use.

But I believe that this technology should be introduced towards all over the world. This is vitally important to contribute towards world as a member of world society.

In conclusion, there is still room to contribute to world stability, especially environmental point of view.

Is a sense of national identity important in this age of globalization?

2007-10-15T16:45:00.002-07:00

Yes, a sense of national identity is important in this age of globalization. I’ll talk about why I think so using following two points.

First, to crack down on copyism. With globalization, Japanese culture fascinates a lot of people in the world. But as negative aspect, it has been copied and transformed to other

Let’s take Sushi for example. When I visited the US, San Francisco on business trip, I’ve eaten awful sushi. I dropped in at one supermarket to buy my dinner. I found Sushi and ate it. The taste is dull and far from real McCoy we usually enjoy in Japan. I’m not the person who are keen to taste. I prefer hamburgers to three stars restraunt. But I couldn’t stand it. Japanese living in the vicinity of the supermarket should lodge a complaint to protect true Japanese taste.

Second, we should know about our own country/culture. For example, I’ve ever taken my British friend to Kabuki. That was also the first time for me to go to the Kabuki play. She asked me bunch of questions such as “what is the origin?” , I failed to answer her questions properly. I learnt that I don’t know our own culture at all. Foreign people are interested in Japanese culture and they know much more than I know. But my understanding was so superficial not profound. She criticized me that she could talk about Shakespeare, I should be able to talk about my own culture.

In conclusion, to have a sense of national identity is vitally important in globalized society. We should enhance the trend to know about ourselves and categorically blame for mimic trend. Be careful for the supermarket -- “Safe way” on highway 101

Do public opinion have strong impact on political change in Japan?

2007-10-15T16:45:00.001-07:00

The answer to this question is yes.

Traditionally, public opinion has not played major role in policy formation but it has increasingly strong influence since very recently.

First, uncommitted voter's support. Let’s take former TV personality Sonomanma Higashi’s case for example. He won the gubernatorial election in Miyazaki. His glass root campaign, with the slogan "Miyazaki must change and no bid-rigging attracted a large number of uncommitted voters. His high profile/fame might influence to bring people’s attention. But the fact also remains that they wanted to oppose against bid-rigging trend in Miyazaki. I believe that this is a good evidence to indicate public opinion’s impact.

Second, objection to LDP. The LDP experienced its crushing defeat in the July Upper House election. The LDP-led ruling coalition only managed to secure 47 seats, falling far short of the 64 needed to maintain control of the Upper House. The DPJ, the main opposition party, won a landslide victory to become the largest party in the House of Councilors. It is believed to be the result of blunder such as pension fiasco and improper remarks. For example, former Health Minister Hakuo Yanagisawa to exhort more women to get pregnant, dubbing them "birth-giving machines". The LDP has dominated Japanese politics for most of the post war period. Other parties simply haven’t had enough strength to win national elections. There is general tendency for parties in power for a long time to become arrogant, complacent and corrupt. But at last, public opinion has strong impact on policy making.

In conclusion, public opinion has increasingly had strong impact on political change.

How has "terrorist attack 911" changed world?

2007-10-14T07:07:00.001-07:00

"Terrorist attack 911" has significant influence to the world from philosophy to daily transaction.

First, security level has been pulled up since then. Let me take the security gate at my work place for example. Multiple gates checking system has been installed to our office. We had lenient checking system. What we needed was just showing our ID card to the security guard to enter the premise by company’s regulation. But we called it “say hello security guard”, because we could enter the premise by saying hello without showing our ID card. However, after 911, to get to my desk, I need to show my ID card once and 3 times quick touch. 911 had an impact on our daily transaction.

Second, the view against Arab is extremely biased. Terrorism is linked to Arab. Islam is dangerous religion. The fact remains that 911 is caused by a part of Militant Islam/extremist. Arab all over the world has been oppressed/harassed since then. For example, Iranian university professor. The company I work for invited one Iranian university professor of UCLA for our in-house training. He is a renowned professor among semiconductor technology field. According to his remarks, the budget of his lab was reduced to 50% of the previous year’s budget because of nationality. Not chinese/american professor but only professors who have Islamic background. He criticized that this policy is religious discrimination.

In conclusion, "terrorist attack 911" changed world from philosophy to daily transaction.

Pros/Cons of Japan's peace constitution/ ARTICLE 9.

2007-10-14T06:22:00.000-07:00

From philosophy point of view, I strongly support Japan's peace constitution. I believe that this is the constitution Japanese are proud to all over the world. “land, sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never be maintained.” This clause is ideally perfect to renounce war. However, in reality, it ends up being meaning less and a bone of contention.

First, this constitution is just symbol. In other words, intangible presence. I live in the vicinity of SDF camp. In some cases, I can hear the sound of Helicopter and narrowly shooting sound. I sometimes come across Tank running. I can't help thinking that Japan has war potential after all. The constitution has become outdated in the current geopolitical environment. The clause has to catch up with today’s reality I mentioned before.

Second, waste of too much time/money to argue this issue. It is said that 300Million yen a day is needed to hold national parliament. We have tons of problems we have to solve.

We should spend time to argue other issues such as welfare/budget deficit/demographic imbalance/food safety and so on. I believe that priority should be given to solving problems we are facing on daily life first.

In conclusion, I’m against Japan's peace constitution from the practical point of view. I believe that it’s high time to revise it along with today’s reality.

Women in politics

2007-10-11T16:44:00.000-07:00

Traditionally, women has not played major role in policy formation but strong influence.

But I believe that women expand their influences all over the world. I’ll take up two cases, Japan and France case for example.

First, Japan’s case -- Nagano prefecture. It’s famous for relatively high voter turn out in Japan. It is believed to be because women play an important role as candidates. The turn out rate which is barometer to get attention is close to 70%. It’s a good trend to alleviate indifference. In fact, 20% of assembly members are women. If you take 4% on average into consideration, Nagano’s case is extreamly high.

Second, France’s case. Incumbent Franch presidentサルコジ won at presidential election. Half of cabinet members are women. Besides, he experienced one-on-one fight withロワイヤル who was female candidate at presidential election. I believe that this is a good evidence women play an important role.

In conclusion, increasingly women has played major role in policy formation.

feudalistic traits in modern Japan society

2007-10-11T16:43:00.000-07:00

It might be true that women are struggling with feudalistic traits in our society. Some criticize that they are seen as servant to serve tea or machine to produce offspring. But I believe that they are driven by their own image they form. I’ll talk about why I think so by using following two points.

First, serving to men is virtue. It seems that they like serving to men. Let’s take my workplace case for example. One female coworker cleans up our desks every morning. We don’t ask her to do so. She is driven by her own decision. But there is my favorite location of the laptop computer, keyboard, books and stationary. I love untidy desk! Leave them alone, please. Let me cite another example of drinking party, some female coworkers pour beer for participants. But it’s not necessary. I want to drink beer at my own pace. I can serve to pour beer by myself. Leave me alone. Some women seem to have a biased idea that serving to men is virtue.

Second, too much modesty. I believe that it goes too far beyond decency. One female coworker is an able engineer. Her performance is brilliant. It’s no exaggeration to say that our division’s profit heavily rely on her contribution. It goes without saying that many recognize that she should be promoted. Actually, she was offered promotion. However, she reservedly refused the offer regardless of having an ability to be manager.

It is said that she has her own perspective that women should not be appointed to the high position.

In conclusion, a part of responsibility against feudalistic traits is on women’s hands.

Do the media control our opinions?

2007-10-09T16:40:00.000-07:00

The answer to this question is yes. The media, especially television has a strong impact on opinion formation. It’s no exaggeration that the media control our opinions.

First, a role of a trend maker. Let’s take an advertisement on TV for example. One mobile phone maker put on a commercial on TV. One product featured by a guy -- pop idle Kamenashi became a big seller among high school girls. According to market statistics, the sales of mobile phones have been steadily growing since then. I believe that this is a good evidence that the media have an inluence to the formation of public opinion.

Second, negative influence of the media. Let’s take one TV programm which biased our opinion for example. The TV programm title is “Discover! Aru aru”. It took up wide range of issues related to health. The programm fabricated that fermented soybeans works for diet. Fermented soybeans have been in great demand since then. The stock shortage hit our market. But we learnd later that the programm manipulated the data and concocted a story. This was the incidence that the medeia’s responsibility was criticised.

In conclusion, the media play a role to forme our opinions. The influence can be both negative and positive.

Do computer impair people's verbal communication skill?

2007-10-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

The answer to this question is No. To the contrary, I believe that computer has improved interpersonal communication.

First we still rely on verbal communication for the detailed talk. Let’s take Email for example. It’s no doubt that Email is significantly useful tool in our society. We can send a message to a lot of people all at once and avoid receiver’s interruption. Some people criticize that this aspect impairs people's verbal communication skill. However I’m against this idea. At my work place, we don’t use Email to make a decision for complicated technical issue or a billion yen business. We make a consensus at the meeting. It’s hard to think that Email is used for the conversation for marriage contract or divorce. I believe that Email is just tool to assist our communication.

Second, computer can generate chance to enlarge the circle of friends. For example, I have own blog page on the net. I post miscellaneous essay including summer vacation/conflict with boss and so on. Some people leave comments. Then we start exchanging E-mail. In some cases, we meet in person. I got a friend who is a cram school teacher through this process. We meet at least once a month. It’s no exaggeration that computer could be a good trigger to enhance interpersonal communication.

In conclusion, I don’t think that computer impair people's verbal communication skill.

If anything, I believe that computer improve interpersonal communication.

Oriental medicine vs. Western medicine(Healthカテゴリのとりこぼしネタ)

2007-10-08T06:39:00.000-07:00

Those two kinds of medicine compensate for the lack each other. I’d like to focus Oriental medicine with two points here.

First, to cure physical pain. In some cases, Oriental medicine excels Western medicine. Let’s take acupuncture for example. I suffered from pain/swelling on my elbow – so-called tennis elbow. I went to the western style doctor. He diagnosed my pain and told me to rest my elbow until the pain and swelling are gone. Come on! Tennis tournament is around the corner. I wanted him to alleviate my pain. But visiting the doctor was in vain. In stead, I took acupuncture treatment. I had subtle pain on my elbow. But it was not serious pain. The pain was not a big deal to take part in the tournament. I felt that Oriental medicine including acupuncture has an advantage against physical pain.

Second, the roots of medicine are Oriental medicine. It is said that 80% of Western medicine are extracted from natural plant. I have no idea about the definition or demarcation between Oriental medicine and Western medicine. Some say that each material in western medicine is explained and oriental one doesn't focus on the cause but effect. But if medicine based upon natural plant is Oriental medicine, we take Oriental medicine for the most of the cases. Let’s take my mother’s case for example. She is prescribed 10 kinds of pills a day. 4 out of 10 are so called Chinese herbal medicine. It’s good evidence that the effect of Oriental medicine has been accepted in the western style medical system.

In conclusion, as long as pain is eased, it doesn’t matter whether Oriental medicine or Western medicine.

Difference between newspaper and TV as information sources.

2007-10-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

In era of wisdom in which a high value will be placed on information, both sources are beneficial to all of us as information sources. I believe that TV has some advantages against newspaper.

First, prompt announcement or quick report. Newspaper doesn’t have this significant feature. Newspaper has extra edition as solution which needs quick report. But it’s still too slow to distribute information. For example, Earthquake Early Warnings. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) is providing residents in Japan with Earthquake Early Warnings, new prompt earthquake alerts to be issued immediately after the occurrence of earthquakes, in order to secure time to protect yourself before strong tremors arrive. On 1 October 2007, JMA started providing Earthquake Early Warning through several means such as TV. We can’t wait for the issue of extra edition.

Second, graphic depiction. As proverb goes, the picture is worth a thousand words. This feature is beyond newspaper's power. For example, September 11 terrorism attacks.

I was so shocked by the showing clips of the moment that aircrafts crashed into the world trade center buildings. Photos and text based-article on newspaper are good sources. However, moving images on TV have more emotional weight. I remember clearly that I had a strong impression that TV excels newspaper to send direct image.

In conclusion, I believe that TV has at least two advantages against newspaper. Those are quick report and graphic depiction.

Are current efforts to solve the problem of global warming sufficient? (Big corporations and environmental responsibility)　環境問題の取りこぼしネタ

2007-10-07T22:22:00.000-07:00

The answer to this question is No. I’m afraid that current efforts to solve the problem of global warming is not efficient.

First, corporate effort is not efficient. Especially in small and medium sized enterprise. It seems that big corporation’s policies have been changed and they’ve tackled with environmental sustainability citing “CSR” which stands for Corporate Social Responsibility. This is relatively a good trend. Let’s take Sony case for example. It has own environmental criteria to develop its products. As the first priority to save power, its design is constricted by how much power the chip is allowed to consume. This is an effort to hold buttery as much as possible for environmental sustainability. To the contrary, lack of responsibility in small and medium sized enterprise is hot potato in our society. They should also have responsibility to play a role as a member of society.

Second, economic growth first, environmental sustainability follows it. Let’s take Kyoto protocol for example. I’m afraid that Kyoto protocol ends up becoming symbolic protocol. Its first target is to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide and five other greenhouse gases. The policy of this establishment should be praised. However, the U.S.A. has neither ratified nor withdrawn from the Protocol. It is believed to be because it would result in serious harm to the economy of the United States. I can’t help emphasizing that economic growth comes the first.

In conclusion, we have a big room to improve environmental sustainability from small and medium sized corporation level to international talk level.

Will alternative energy sources be efficient enough to replace fossil fuel sources in the near future(環境問題の取りこぼしネタ)

2007-10-07T18:46:00.000-07:00

The answer to this question is No. I’m afraid that alternative energy sources will not be efficient enough to replace fossil fuel sources.

First, impractical as solution from requiring less land point of view. It is estimated that it would take a wind farm the size of Texas to provide for the power needs of Texas. The inefficiency of alternative energy technologies make them impractical as solutions for large-scale energy needs. Hydroelectric usually needs building a large dam which floods an enormous region behind the dam, displacing tens of thousands of people. For example, the Three Gorges Dam project in China. It destroyed 30,000 hectors of farmland. If you take these requiring land cases into your consideration, nuclear power should be valued regardless of its potential dangers.

Second, alternative energy sources can be a bone of contention. We have some potentially alternative energy sources such as nuclear power and bio-ethanol. However, I believe that those are not definitive solutions to replace fossil fuel sources. Let’s take uranium for example. This is also finite fuel source. Only around 0.72% of all natural uranium is uranium-235, the rest being mostly uranium-238. This concentration is insufficient for a self sustaining reaction. Many electricity companies in mostly industrialized countries are rushing in getting uranium. The international price for this chemical element has been shooting up. As another example, I’ll take up bio-ethanol. bio-ethanol has been shed light on since the last decade. However, it causes some problems such as increasing the price of agricultural products, deforestation to gain the farmland for the crops and so on. Alternative energy sources essentially involves a bone of contention.

In conclusion, we need to keep using fossil fuel for a while. We need to make an effort to delay depletion of fossil fuel until we find definitive alternative energy sources.

Crime in the information age

2007-10-06T23:12:00.000-07:00

Crime in the information age is one of the biggest problems in our society. I’ll talk about this issue with two aspects.

First, crimes targeting the elderly. Let’s take "Ore ore" ("It's me") frauds for example. Swindles call targets and persuade them that they are relatives in trouble and need quick cash. They pose as grandchild, police officers and lawyers to gain victims' trust using bunch of detailed information. They can be an easy pray for fraud due to impaired judgment. We can consider that banking facilities also have hand in this fraud. To prevent this, banking facilities should have responsibility not to be withdrawn money by such as redundant confirmation.

Second, extremely high technology. Let’s take Electric train pass – SuiCa of JR.

With just one quick touch, you can pass through JR EAST ticket gates and your fare is automatically deducted! No need to buy a ticket every time you ride a train. You can recharge and reuse the card an unlimited number of times. I have a hand in R&D related to this train pass. We got information that the card is targeted by fraud aiming at stealing private information. Engineer including me are making strong effort to preventing from being stolen personal information from the card. Literally, night and day. The technology implented in SuiCa card is so called high technology. The attempt used by fraud also becomes high technology. We have been in the rat race. Ironically, this vicious cycle enhances the great leaps in technology though.

In conclusion, we are living in high crime risk environment. Victims could be not only the elderly but also various generations targeted by fraud

Are people happy in digital society?

2007-10-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

Yes. I believe that people enjoy huge benefit from digital society. Let’s take computer game as a symbol of digital technology. I deeply understand that many people criticize that computer games can generate a lack of communication and trigger violent crimes. But the benefits
outweigh the risks.The popularity of computer games is vitally important for two aspects. One is the benefit for our society and the other is for me.

First, great leaps in technology. Computer games as product have many indirect benefits to our society. Let’s take semiconductor chips used in Sony PlayStation for example. The chips include the cutting edge technology accumulated engineer’s experience and knowledge. The performance is much more than super computer decade ago. The technology is widely reused for other category such as mobile phone. The semiconductor chips originated from game product play an important role to achieve the complicated and multi functional mobile phone. The popularity enhances the technical improvement.

Second, for my own benefit. My salary is decided by two factors. One is the evaluation of my personal performance. The other is company’s profit. The company I work for produce game products. In other words, the more our game products are in demand, the more my salary increases. It’s not exaggeration. If engineers can get better incentive, technology would be more improved. Buy game product. Not Nintendo DS but PlayStation, please.

In conclusion, we can expect the great leaps in technology and it can contribute to the public good. It is reasonable to think that we are happy in digital society.

Are Japanese children spoiled?(Educationネタの取りこぼしなので後回しでお願いします)

2007-10-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, I’m afraid that Japanese children have been spoiled for the last three decades. I’ll shed light on two lacks for Japanese children.

First, lack of patience. Children are more affluent and comfortable than ever before. Let’s take convenience store for example. It’s open for 24 hours. They can get any food, drink, magazines and so on at the moment that they want to get. As negative effect of affluent, they can be short on patience. If they can not get what they want, as is often the case, they can resolve to disruptive behavior such as physical violence as the worst case. I can’t help considering that the lifestyle of children is too much affluent.

Second, lack of discipline. Women have played important roles in our society and they pursue their own career. They can’t afford to take care of their children. Parent’s discipline is not good enough to raise child as a member of society.

On top of that, school teachers handle their students as business like. My wife is a school nurse. She confidentially told me that they are not willing to seriously displine their students. Because they are afraid of reaction/claim/complaint from parents. Therefore, their disciplines end up superficial effect.

In conclusion, Japanese children have been vulnerable and have less flexibility. They are not well trained. If we don’t take measures on this issue, we’ll lose national power in international harsh market.

Is social chasm growing in Japanese society

2007-10-03T08:02:00.000-07:00

These days, social chasm is growing in Japanese society. I’ll talk about this issue with two aspects.

First, winner and looser. Performance based system, so called merit system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. As a negative aspect of performance based system, it generated stressful working environment. Employees are driven by the pressure that they need to bear fruits. Some people lack their confidence and they evaluate themselves as looser when they can’t perform well. For example, one of my subordinates who left our office due to mental depression confessed me that he was overwhelmed by excellency of coworkers and he felt inferior. I don’t think he’s looser at all. But he was annoyed by huge gap between his perfect world and real situation. Anyway, we lost one personnel. If the number of withdrawal increase, we’ll loose national power.

Second, economical gap. Let’s take net café refugees. People who don’t have stable residence and who stay at net café instead, we call them net café refugees. They don’t have stable job and they get by as daily worker with low income. They might be victims of modern society. But I believe that they choose their ways on their own. They pursuit too much better working condition. They avoid harsh working condition such as long hours of hard work. For example, caregivers from Philippine play an important role in our society to compensate for the shortage of Japanese workers. Anyway, the fact remains that a lot of people are struggling with low income. To the contrary, investors such as Horiemon handle huge money with greater ease as if they are playing with money.

In conclusion, we are facing social gap including mental withdrawal and economic difference in our society. To enhance our strength, we need to reduce huge gap.

The problems facing senior citizens in an aging society

2007-10-03T06:37:00.001-07:00

These days, the life of elderly seems to be in danger. The scandals such as pension fiasco and Comsn misdeeds have hit our society. According to the demographic statistics, one in four in 2025 would be over 65 years old.

First, posthumous chore. Especially for people who don't have any children like me, it’s a serious matter to handle posthumous chore. Whom can I rely on? If I could leave my living will or prepare for my death in advance, it’s not so critical. But if I become unconscious out of the blue, who deal with payment of medical care, handling real estate/bank account, informing utility sector about my death, discarding refrigerator/VCR, my cat and so on? One possible answer would be lawyers. But I doubt that they are willing to deal with such an unprofitable work. The elderly need overall support system. So, such a work should be done by the government.

Second, crimes targeting the elderly. Let’s take "Ore ore" ("It's me") frauds for example. Swindles call targets and persuade them that they are relatives in trouble and need quick cash. They pose as grandchild, police officers and lawyers to gain victims' trust using bunch of detailed information. They can be an easy pray for fraud due to impaired judgment. We can consider that banking facilities also have hand in this fraud. To prevent this, banking facilities should have responsibility not to be withdrawn money by such as redundant confirmation.

In conclusion, the elderly played important roles to achieve high economic growth. It is no　exaggeration to say that they have brought Japan to one of the highest industrialized countries. Now, they should be given social hospitality and protected from crimes.

Who is the role-model for children?(Educationネタの取りこぼしなので後回しでお願いします)

2007-10-02T16:43:00.000-07:00

The world’s tennis top-ranked player-- Roger Federer. His influence is significant not only for children who are interested in Tennis but also children who are not. I’ll focus two his great aspects.

First, technical role model. He achieved ten Grand Slam men's singles titles. It is said that Federer may become the greatest player in history. His artistic play fascinates young players and enhances technical improvement.

Second, influence for children all over the world. He was assigned as UNICEF’s Goodwill Ambassador. According to his statement, he made the remarks that he may have achieved a lot on the court, but he would also like to try to achieve more off the court, a privilege for him to continue this great tradition of UNICEF. For example, in the Indian Ocean tsunami disaster’s aftermath, he made a significant personal donation to the relief effort. For another case, he used his high profile to bring the world’s attention to their plight. In 2003, he established the Roger Federer Foundation to fund projects benefiting disadvantaged children

In conclusion, I believe that Roger Federer can be a good role-model for children with two aspects. One is as technical role-model and the other is as Goodwill Ambassador.

Government's responsibility to take care of the elderly

2007-10-02T07:54:00.000-07:00

These days, the life of elderly seems to be in danger. The scandals such as pension fiasco and Comsn misdeeds have hit our nation. According to the demographic statistics, one in four in 2025 would be over 65 years old. I believe that the government should take full responsibility for taking care of the elderly. Here, I would like suggest what the government should do for the elderly.

First, overall support system for the elderly. Especially for people who don't have any children like me, it’s a serious matter to handle posthumous chore. Whom can I rely on? If I could leave my living will, it’s not so critical. But if I become unconscious out of the blue, who deal with payment of medical care, handling real estate/bank account, informing utility sector about my death, discarding refrigerator/VCR, my cat and so on? One possible answer would be lawyers. But I doubt that they are willing to deal with such an unprofitable work. So, such a work should be done by the government

Second, policy change for the elderly. Those who are now over 65 played important roles to achieve high economic growth. We couldn’t get national strength in international market without their efforts. It is no　exaggeration to say that they have brought Japan to one of the highest industrialized countries. Now, their efforts should be rewarded. To my surprise, it is said that expense for supporting the elderly over 75 years old is to be cut. I believe that this policy would be opposite against ideal situation. Let’s take Swedish case. The medical cost is charge-free. This should be government’s direction of the road ahead.

In conclusion, government should not return evil for good for the elderly. If government doesn’t take care of the elderly, significance of existence would decline.

Problems of increasing single mothers in advanced countries

2007-09-30T05:02:00.000-07:00

I’d like to shed light on child abuse on this topic. Child abuse has been increasing among young mothers. According to one statistics, 60% of child abuse was done by mother. One possible cause would be to extremely pursuit their own benefit. Here are two aspects here.

First, recently, women have played important roles in our society and they pursue their own career. They can’t afford to take care of their children and emotionally handle them. resort to excessive physical punishment. For example, my wife is school nurse at elementary school. Three child abuse cases hit the school. In all three cases, mothers have own job and don’t have any mental leeway. It seems that there is strong correlation between child abuse and women in business world.

Second, mothers lack of their responsibilities and don’t know how to handle kids. I was shocked by one report that reports 23 children die last 8 years in leaving a child in a car. For example, one child left in a car at Pachinko polar without any air conditioner died from heat exhaustion. Temperature in a car could reach at 50 or 60 degree on hot summer day. I believe that these cases are good evidence to verify the lack of parent’s responsibility.

In conclusion, the lack of parent’s responsibility and the lack of knowledge how to raise children are significant social problems.

changing lifestyle of children in cities

2007-09-29T22:33:00.000-07:00

The lifestyle of children in cities has been drastically changed for the last three decades. Their lives are too much affluent and hectic as same as adult’s one. I’ll shed light on two aspects.

First, Children are more affluent and comfortable than ever before. Let’s take convenience store for example. It’s open for 24 hours. They can get any food, drink, magazines and so on at the moment that they want to get. As negative effect of affluent, they can be short on patience. If they can not get what they want, as is often the case, they can resolve to physical violence as the worst case. I can’t help considering that the lifestyle of children is too much affluent.

Second, cram school in the heated exam. wars. Cram school and examination wars have existed since when I was a kid. But today’s trend goes too far beyond decency. For example, I’m on the way to home at the time close to the last train around 12 o’clock. I can easily find elementary school students in the train among drunken business people including me. It seems that their conversation is related to their coming examination and the result of mock exam. I can’t help sympathize with their tough environment or high expectation from their parents. I deeply understand the idea that graduating from the prestigious high school or university lead our nation to one of the successful industrized country in the world. However, why don’t they have leeway?

In conclusion, their lives are engulfed by hustle and bustle in cities.

How to improve Japan’s international image?

2007-09-29T20:24:00.001-07:00

Japan is one of the successful industrialized countries. The fact reminds that it has played an important role in various field such as technology. However, other fact also reminds that foreigners have some negative views against Japan?

First, authoritarian business manner. Japanese tend to stick to position/title on business scene. For example, one British I know confessed that he was so bewildered by Japanese authoritarian business manner. He had a meeting with Japanese. After he exchanged the business cards, he noticed there are so many titled position such as “manager”, “senior manager”, “technical manager”, “deputy manager”, “director” and so on. He was not sure who is the right person to contact as their Japanese counter part. He ended up asking “who is the boss?” I propose just reducing the number of unnecessary title to distinguish between actual responsible manager and technical staff.

Second, I'm afraid we have to admit that English level in Japan is quite low.
How poor it is? According to TOEFL statistics in 2003, Japan was ranked at the 22nd out of 23 countries. The last one is north Korea. just for your information. At one international Semicon conference, interpreter is assigned to Japanese speaker against speaker's will. Not for Korean and Chinese but only for Japanese! How do we improve English education in Japan? Despite 10 years of study, many people still can't handle speaking English.
Language ability is evaluated by solely through written methods in the heated exam. wars. To the contrary, EIKEN includes a direct speaking component. We should more emphasize active ability to appeal one’s opinion than passive ability. The more a lot of people challenge Eiken, the better they can handle proficiency.

In conclusion, it’s important to enhance English proficiency and avoid complicated business manner to improve Japan’s international image.

The future of space travel

2007-09-29T04:20:00.001-07:00

Yes, I believe that space travel will be common within half a century. Many criticise it wastes of time and money. Priority should be given to other issues on Earth such as poverty and hanger. But I believe that space travel plays an important role to improve technology. Now I’ll focus two aspect of technology improvement.

First, food technology. I’d like to define food technology as tecqunique to preserve delicate taste for a long period even in space.

Let’s take instant noodle for example. The founder of Nissin, Momofuku Andou invented instant noodle. Instant noodle was brough to space shuttle discovery. It contributed to hunger in Africa. Anyway, wecan expect technology leap for food. We would be able to experience three stars restaurant's taste in space craft/perfect Sushi/Tempura through improvement of food technology.

Second, we can expect secondary benefit to all of us. We'll make an effort to achieve space travel. It'd bear good fruit for not only space exploration but also other field. Let's take semiconductor chips as example. Semiconductor chips used in space craft should work under harsh condition -- extremely temperature hot and cold. It's a big challenge to design robust chip which works properly. This kind of effort enhances the quality of electric equipment for our daily life on the earth..

In conclusion, space travel is promising driving force to improve our technology.

We can receive huge benefit from space travel.

Do the benefits outweigh the dangers of nuclear power energy?

2007-09-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

The Chernobyl disaster, widely cited as the reason not to build nuclear power plants, happened in the Soviet Union where safety standards were notoriously lax. The nuclear power stations can be targeted by terrorism. Unfortunately, the nuclear industry has a bad reputation for safety. But it brings huge benefits that more than compensate for the negative aspects.

First, requiring less land. It is estimated that it would take a wind farm the size of Texas to provide for the power needs of Texas. The inefficiency of alternative energy technologies make them impractical as solutions for large-scale energy needs. Hydroelectric usually needs building a large dam which floods an enormous region behind the dam, displacing tens of thousands of people. For example, the Three Gorges Dam project in China. It destroyed 30,000 hectors of farmland. If you take these requiring land cases into your consideration, nuclear power should be valued regardless of its potential dangers.

Second, environmental friendly aspect. Nuclear power is significantly beneficial to environment. Dams requiring huge area can devastate the eco-system of wide areas. Burning fossil fuels is highly polluting. Build-up of carbon dioxide is believed to accerarate the greenhouse effect, causing global climate change. Nuclear power energy does not emit carbon dioxide unlike fossil fuel.

In conclusion, there is no other power than nuclear power. Only nuclear power can supply our energy needs.

In what circumstances, if any, do you support human cloning?

2007-09-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Many people criticize that human cloning technology is unsafe. The nuclear transfer technique that produced Dolly required 277 embryos, from which only one healthy and viable sheep was produced. Moreover, we do not know the long-term consequences of cloning. However, if we are allowed to use cloning, I support this in two circumstances here.

First, cure for diseases. Cloning technology or stem cell technology hold the promise of future cures for diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Let me cite my mother’s case. She has been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for the last 3 years. She doesn’t have any ability to call her son’s name. Yes, it’s me. She can’t call me “Taka” anymore. I wish cloning technology could be applied to my mother’s brain cell. I want to be called “Taka” by my mother.

I believe that the likely result of curing people of fatal disease is worth the cost.

Second, succession of technology and craftsmanship purposes. In an extreme case, old tech is simple. The longer time goes by, the more technology is sophisticated. For example, transistor radio uses simple technology; to the contrary, mobile phone with multiple functions is so complicated. Younger engineers need time to master the distinguished knowledge and enhance it. There is likelihood that it’s impossible to reach the master’s experience and to exceed it. As my wistful thinking, it’s beneficial to all of us to clone their brains. We can succeed their knowledge and enhance them.

In conclusion, cloning technology can benefit our society as a whole. This technology can contribute to cure diseases and improve technology.

Do you support genetic therapy to cure serious disease?

2007-09-24T06:25:00.001-07:00

Genetic therapy involves technology that is still relatively young, and enough testing has not been done to ascertain its effect on potential human health impact. Nobody knows the long term effects of genetic therapy on humans. I think more time is needed to verify its effect before we will know the definitive answer with regard to safety. However, I strongly support genetic therapy to cure serious disease.

First, Now I’ll take up gout for example. Gout is arthritis which causes pain. Usually, the joints in the big toe are affected. It is believed to be the result of gluttony and inherited. Now I’ll focus inherited aspect. If genetic therapy is available and verified its effect, a lot of gout patients will be delighted. Especially me, because I’m one of the patients longing for such a therapy.

Second, Baldness. I believe we can include baldness as serious disease. Onset of hair loss sometimes begins as early as end of puberty, and is mostly genetically determined. Research has also shown that a person with a balding father also has a significantly greater chance of experiencing hair loss. This is applied to me. Yes, I’m afraid loosing my hair! There are some approaches to baldness such as medicine to treat high blood pressure, hair transplantation, stress reduction and so on. But it seems those are not definitive solution. If genetic therapy is available and verified its effect, a lot of people annoyed by baldness will be delighted.

In conclusion, it can benefit our society as a whole. This technology can contribute to the public good and improve the quality of our lives.

Genetically modified food and the future

2007-09-24T04:13:00.000-07:00

Genetic modification involves technology that is still relatively young, and enough testing has not been done to ascertain its effect on potential human health impact. Nobody knows the long term effects of GM foods on humans or the environment. I think more time is needed to verify its effect before we will know the definitive answer with regard to safety. However, we can receive huge benefit from genetic modification.

First, less chemical treatment. The possible benefits from GM food are enormous. Among them, I’d like to especially emphasize less chemical treatment. GM technology can create crop varieties which are resistant to disease, thereby requiring less pesticides and safeguarding the environment. For example, import vegetable contaminated with pesticides from China is hot potato in our society. I believe that we can avoid such a threat through GM food. I mentioned ambiguous effects of GM foods on humans or the environment. Which is more fatal, a pesticide or GM food? I doubt China’s effort and reminisce about pesticides in the 1950s and 1960s such as DDT. So, it seems GM food is so far so good to me. The lesser of the two evils.

Second, added benefit or secondary effect from GM technology. Now I’ll take up gout for example. Gout is arthritis which causes pain. Usually, the joints in the big toe are affected. It is believed to be the result of gluttony and inherited. Now I’ll focus inherited aspect. If genetically modified technology applied for food is extended to other field such as genetic therapy, a lot of gout patients will be delighted. Especially me, because I’m one of the patients longing for such a therapy.

In conclusion, it can benefit our society as a whole. This technology can contribute to the public good and improve the quality of our lives.

Are we too dependent on science and technology?

2007-09-23T21:52:00.000-07:00

We can get a lot of benefit from today's advanced technology and making good

use of it itself is not a bad thing.

However, I’m afraid I have to admit that we are too dependant on science and technology. We might as well rely on technology. But as proverb goes, Too much is as bad as too little. I’ll take up two examples here.

First, we rely too much on escalators/moving stairway. I consider that escalator is just a tool to assist us. What I can't stand most is a person, who doesn't step aside and stay still, which is not only against the public manner but also beyond my patience. Don't stop/ walk on your own except those who physically need an assist like elderly and disabled. I can't help considering that we are too dependant on technology. Usually, I don't use escalator. If necessary, such as lower ground subway station, I use escalator but I never stay still. I make it a rule to walk up and down.

Second, we rely too much Email. It’s no doubt that Email is significantly useful tool in our society. We can send a message to a lot of people all at once and avoid receiver’s interruption. But as a negative aspect of Email, it has a weak point on emergency situation. For example, we had a huge trouble on computer server at my work place. We needed to solve this accident as soon as possible to meet our deadline. Or else we could loose one billion yen sales business opportunity. I ordered one of my subordinates to handle this issue. He seemed to send Email to the computer maker to get it to fix our computer. Half a day later, I asked him what’s going on the progress. He answered that he was waiting for Email responses from the vendor. All he did was just sending an email and nothing else.　His purpose ended up just sending Email. It goes without saying that I chastised him.

In conclusion, it’s not bad to rely on technology and receive benefit and boon at all. However, Too much dependency is not good. We should bear in mind how to use technology.

The popularity of computer games

2007-09-23T18:57:00.000-07:00

I deeply understand that many people criticize that computer games can generate a lack of communication and trigger violent crimes. But it brings huge benefit that more than compensate for the negative aspect. The popularity of computer games is vitally important for two aspects. One is the benefit for our society and the other is for me.

Second, for my own benefit. My salary is decided by two factors. One is the evaluation of my personal performance. The other is company’s profit. The company I work for produce game products. In other words, the more our game products are in demand, the more my salary increases. If engineers can get better incentive, tecnology would be more improved. Buy game product. Not Nintendo DS but PlayStation, please.

In conclusion, we can expect the great leaps in technology and it can contribute to the public good. Do not forget trivial aspect. That’s my salary.

Should euthanasia be permitted in Japan?

2007-09-20T16:50:00.000-07:00

Yes. I strongly support this idea. Some people criticize that there is no such things as a right to die. Suicide is always wrong. But it’s high time to change such a negative perspective.

First, euthanasia is not vice but virtue.

People should be allowed to request mercy killing to end their suffering. It is more humane that these individuals be allowed to choose the manner of their own end and die with dignity. This is for the patient. But it’s beneficial for others with some points. Euthanasia can release the needless agony of watching close relatives slowly degenerate and die in great pain. It would also increase the number of organs available for transplant in those cases where the patient’s and family’s consent had been obtained. The term ‘euthanasia’ comes from the ancient Greek words meaning ‘good health’. Those who end their own lives are not seen as evil.

Second, I don’t want to cause inconvenience to society. I’d like to contribute to reduce burden of life support through euthanasia. Now, we suffer from demographic imbalance in Japan. It generates work shortage such as doctors and nurses in medical field. Besides, financial burden to support the elderly is heavy for young generation. For example, If I become a ‘vegetable’ or I’m in PVS which stands for a persistent vegetative state, I’m wiling to opt for euthanasia to avoid inconvenience for others.

To maintain my life, human resources, medical facility and medical expense are more or less used. I’d like to contribute to our society by not accepting life support service.

In conclusion, euthanasia brings huge benefits that more than compensate for the negative aspect.

The increasing number of mentally ill people in Japan

2007-09-20T07:57:00.001-07:00

In our society, the increasing number of mentally ill people is one of the biggest problems. If we don’t take measures on this problem, we will lose national strength in international market. Now, I’ll talk about the possible cause and its negative effect here.

First, about the possible cause. Performance based system, so called merit system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. As a negative aspect of performance based system, it generated stressful working environment. Employees are driven by the pressure that they need to bear fruits. Some people lack their confidence and they evaluate themselves as looser when they can’t performe well. Mental instability bears social withdrawal, as a worst case, it causes suicide. For example, one of my subordinates who left our office due to mental depression confessed me that he was willing to accept low wage if he could escape from the performance based evaluation.

Next, about negative effect. Labor shortage and a few successors for technology and craftsmanship would be serious crisis in our society. According to the demographic statistics, one in four in 2025 would be over 65 years old. Even now, we suffer from demographic imbalance. Absolute denominator of entire population is becoming small. Among this environment, loosing work force due to mental illness makes the matter worse. Besides, it’s difficult to succeed technology to younger generation. Let me take the same subordinate’s case once again for example. Apparently, we lost one personnel to succeed our accumulated knowledge and experience. Nowadays, high technology such as mobile phone with multiple function is so complicated. Younger engineers need time to master the distinguished knowledge and enhance it. I’m worry about whether we have time to succeed.

In conclusion, we need to stop increasing number of mentally ill people. Or else we will loose our nation’s strength and compositeness in international market.

How to avoid stress in a fact-paced society?

2007-09-18T05:37:00.001-07:00

Now, we are living in fast-paced environment. It’s indispensable for us to have lifestyle to get along with this environment. I can demonstrates two possible solutions to avoid stress.

First, to release my stress, the best way is that drinking beer with my listening to rock music at high volume in the daytime on weekend. Old rock music is my good medicine such as Pink Floyd, Queen, Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen. The biggest stress annoying me is one related to work. It is consisted of many aspects such as demanding boss, tough project schedule to meet, technical improvement and achievement of patent quota. However, I can handle this stress through applying the drinking solution. Besides, this solution sparked the idea as derivative effect. Some patents I applied are ideas using this method. I can’t help saying that this solution is panacea for me.

Second, to avoid conflict as much as possible.
As proverb goes, Don't kick against the pricks. Bow to the impregnable.(長いものには巻かれろ) I’ll take an example from my work place. We had a huge trouble on the semiconductor chip design. But we need to proceed another project at the same time. I insisted that we should focus on troubleshooting at the first priority. To my surprise, my boss insisted that workforces should be divided into two teams. I was reluctant to follow his direction with lacking foresight. But it’s better than stress caused by conflict.

When I was at early 30’s, I used to be bloody-minded. I welcomed the heated argument over touchy issue. But I’m over the hill any more. I feel comfortable that I accept compromise rather than conflict.
“What will be will be” is the best motto for me to avoid conflict.

In conclusion, I focused on two aspects to avoid stress. Compromise and drink-listening to rock music is effective for mental stress.

Lifestyles that best contribute to good health

2007-09-17T00:42:00.001-07:00

Now, we are living in fast-paced and afluent food environment. It’s indispensible for us to have lifestyle to get along with this environment. I can demonstartes two possible solutions for good health here.

First, Diet to reduce unnecessary calorie as much as possible. As negative aspect of afluence of food, life style related desease hit our society. For example, I abstain from food after nine. I developed gout a couple years ago. Gout is arthritis which causes pain. Usually, the joints in the big toe are affected. It is believed to be the result of gluttony and inherited. I could reduce my weight around 5Kg and my physical condition improved a great deal without taking any pills. I’m free from the pain.

Of course, the cases I have a drinking party are exception.

Second, to reduce mental stress. To release my stress, the best way is that drinking beer with my listening to rock music at high volume in the daytime on weekend. Old rock music is my good medicine such as Pink Floyd, Queen, Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen. The biggest stress annoying me is one related to work. It is consisted of many aspects such as demanding boss, tough project schedule to meet, technical improvement and achievement of patent quota. However, I can handle this stress through applying the drinking solution. Besides, this solution sparked the idea as derivative effect. Some patents I applied are ideas using this method. I can’t help saying that this solution is panacea for me.

In conclusion, I focused on two aspects for good health. Diet is good for physical health and drink-listening to rock music is effective for mental stress.

What should be done about food safety?

2007-09-16T23:43:00.000-07:00

In our society, food safety problem has caused us a great anxiety. For example, agricultural product exported by China has been shed light on for the last decade because of residual pesticides. Fujiya expired food case/meat hope false-labeling scandal hit our society. Some people point out that the current inspection is too lenient and much more strict inspection is needed. It’s true. Now, I’d like to add two solutions here to tackle with food safety.

First, establishment of evaluation/ranking system. I believe, audit body formed by media/authorities as watchdog is effective. Companies are significantly sensitive to media coverage. Therefore, they will make strong efforts to earn good reputation from public. For example, an international environmental organization – Greenpeace has its own ranking system. This is environmental version. But I believe that this idea can be applied to food safety in stead. The first priority of companies is to make a profit. It has become clear that through earning good reputation, we can make more profit. In other words, good reputation plays vital role for making profit. Nowadays, handling environmental sustainability has been a significant impact on corporate sustainability.

Second, time to increase self-sufficient rate.
Japan’s food self-sufficient rate is around 40%. We heavily rely on import of agricultural product. The main partner nations are U.S, China, Australia, Canada and Thai land. Especially, import vegetable contaminated with pesticides from China is hot potato in our society. To avoid this kind of problem, I believe that setting up agriculture company/group farmer is effective through increasing self-sufficient rate. Agriculture has been considered as new type of business. It attracts young people as changing job and the retired senior people as the second job opportunity. We should consider that food safety problem enhances the trend of increasing self-sufficient rate.

In conclusion, it’s high time to tackle with food safety problem. I believe evaluation system and increasing self-sufficient rate are realistic solution.

2007-09-15T04:39:00.000-07:00

This is great, huh?

economic growth and environmental sustainability?

2007-09-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

First, the establishment of evaluation system. It seems that company’s policies have been changed and they’ve tackled with environmental sustainability citing “CSR” which stands for Corporate Social Responsibility. This is a good trend. But to extend this trend further, I propose establishment of evaluation/ranking system. I believe, audit body formed by media/authorities as watchdog is effective. Companies are significantly sensitive to media coverage. Therefore, they will make strong efforts to earn good reputation from public. For example, the company I work for was ranked at the last place at the latest Greenpeace ranking system. The CEO issued instructions to all employees to take environmental deliberation into our consideration. It has become clear that through earning good reputation, we can make more profit. In other words, good reputation plays vital role for making profit. Nowadays, handling environmental sustainability has been a significant impact on corporate sustainability.

Second, I’d like to shed light on technical effort. Let me take actual example from my work place. I’m working on semiconductor chip design field. We design chips which are geared for mobile phone, GPS and so on under some criteria. One of them is related to power consumption. As the first priority to save power, our design is constricted by how much power the chip is allowed to consume. This is an effort to hold buttery as much as possible for environmental sustainability. In short, we create better products and offer better service to customers through this kind of improvement.

In conclusion, environmental sustainability enhances corporate growth and technical improvement. We should positively accept environmental sustainability as the first priority for our prosperity.

The type of pollution that affect me the most

2007-09-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

The type of pollution that affects me the most is noise pollution. I’m annoyed two kinds of noise in daily life.

First, noise pollution motorcycle gangsters generate. My condo I live in is in front of police box. Many motorcycle gangsters provoke police officers at midnight or early morning. I craved officer to crack down them. But one police officer ignored my appeal. To my surprise, he told me that people lodging a complaint are only me! This is funny but not convincing enough.

Second, noise pollution related to SDF. I live in the vicinity of SDF camp. Especially, on SDF inspection parade day, noise pollution reaches a peak. I can hear the sound of Helicopter and narrowly shooting sound. Demonstrators take to the street against SDF. Right-wing sound trucks come and go with huge noise! Oh man! Literally, here is war field.

In conclusion, my residential environment is hell at least at the aspect noise.

How to promote environmental education in school

2007-09-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

We are facing at environmental degradation. This is the concern not only for our generation but also for that of the future. I am seriously concerned about this issue because natural environment is our asset for mankind. For environmental sustainability, I believe that education plays an important role. Now, I propose excursion to make them learn the importance of environment with two aspects.

Firstly, to make students recognize garbage problem. Let’s take Mt. Fuji for example as the destination.

The beautiful Mt. Fuji has not been appointed as a World Heritage site. It is believed to be because too much garbage is left on the mountain. In fact, junior high school students in Saitama prefecture visited Mt. Fuji. Their first purpose teachers expected was to experience climbing the mountain. However, some students recognized a lot of garbage along the path. I believe that it’s a good chance to raise their awareness for environmental degradation.

Second, to make students recognize the technology contribution. For example, the renouned automobile company -- Honda launches a program to invite students to appeal their environmental activity. It introduces the contribution of technology such as hybrid car, natural gas-powered car and technology to produce Ethanol. I believe that this would be a good trend to experience actual technology rather than visiting historical and cultural city such as Kyoto and Nara. The number of school using this program is small, roughly 15 schools every year. But it is expected to increase

In conclusion, excursion is effective to make them learn the importance of environment.

Modern sense of morality in Japan

2007-09-06T05:37:00.000-07:00

I’m afraid that morality based on Confucian tradition in Japan is disappearing. This becomes social problem. One main theme to Confucianism is relationships. I’d like to focus on relationships with two aspects.

First, I’ll talk about my private experience as micro point of view. I’d like to emphasize police officers’ moral degeneration. For example, noise pollution motorcycle gangsters generate. My condo I live in is in front of police box. Many motorcycle gangsters provoke police officers at the midnight or early morning. I craved officer to crack down them. But one police officer ignored my agony. By contrast, he told me that people lodging a complaint are only me! That was the moment that the relationship between police and citizens was broken.

Second, macro point of view. Now our society is suffering from the lack of corporate ethics. A lot of cases increase our anxiety. For example, Paloma gas leak/Fujiya expired food case/meat hope false-labeling scandal and so on. I’m afraid that the relationship between companies and customers are at stake. Obviously, this is a grave concern as lack of morality. Furthermore, this trend can lead our society to worse condition. In short, we loose economic power in international market.

In conclusion, social harmony is the great goal of Confucianism. Failing to build good relationship can damage our stable harmony.

Why is Japanese animation highly valued around the world?

2007-09-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

Some aspects of manga are taken from the West. Osamu Tezuka, the "father" of modern manga, was influenced by Disney. But its main features, such as contents and stylized features, are distinctly Japanese. I understand there are many fine works of manga and anime being produced in many places around the world. However, as far as I understand, the roots are in Japan, and Japan is still considered the center of the anime world. I’ll talk about why I think so with two aspects.

First, complicated contents on real daily life. Now I’d like to include comics as animation. For example, “Manager Kousaku Shima” This is notable manga series based on corporate businessman. This handles touchy issue/conflict at workplace or away from work place not like sci-fi, action, fantasy and comedy.

This diverse range of subjects and themes satisfies many readers, especially, adult readers of different interests.

Second, artistic taste. Some animation includes sophisticated and refined pictures. Let’s take Hayao Miyazaki’s film – “The Spiriting Away of Sen and Chihiro” for example. The film received many awards. This is the first anime film to win an Academy Award. He sticks to even pattern of kimono. His artistic technique to describe trivial things is distinct and unique.　It reminds readers of Japanese-style painting and Ukiyoe. It’s no wonder that Japanese animation fascinates a lot of foreigners. Besides, I believe that the quality of pictures reaches to craftsmanship level. Young generation follows Miyazaki and competes each other among environment where reader's demanding is high. This high level animation is evaluated by foreigners.

In conclusion, many people all over the world not only as readers but also writers have been heavily influenced by Japanese animation because of contents-rich and craftsmanship.

How to prevent people from committing suicide in Japan

2007-09-01T15:22:00.001-07:00

Increasing number of suicide is one of the biggest problems in our society. Because human resources are our assets to strengthen our nation’s prosperity, if we don’t take measures on this problem, we will loose competitiveness in international market. I propose two solutions here. One is for business people and the other is for school children.

First, installment of flexible evaluation system at work place. Performance based system, so called merit system has been installed in our society for the last two decades. As a negative aspect of performance based system, it generated stressful working environment. Some people lack their confidence and feel looser. Mental instability bears social withdrawal, as a worst case, it causes suicide. One solution is to install flexible evaluation system. In that system, employees can choose the evaluation system on their own ; either merit system or fixed salary system. The fixed salary system can alleviate mentally vulnerable employee’s pressure in order not to be rushed. For example, one of my subordinates who left our office for a while due to mental depression confessed me that he would have chosen the fixed salary system. He was willing to accept low wage even if he could bear outstanding fruits. Compromising is better than being rushed.

Second, establishment of counseling body for school children.
As study shows, the organization formed by trainee teacher, university student
majoring in psychology and graduated student. The point is that they are
young and close to the age of bullied victims. According to the report
from Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, many bullied victims are not willing to come to their parents or teachers for help. In stead, they feel comfortable to tell the truth to senior associate. In most cases, this is all that the victim wants and needs. The organization inform the parents of the victim and of the bully and discuss possible solutions with them. I believe that this system could prevent the bullied victims from committing suicide.

In conclusion, we need to take measures to prevent suicides so as to strengthen our nation’s prosperity for adults and children.

Are the changing eating habits common in a fast-paced society, good or bad?

2007-09-01T15:14:00.000-07:00

I believe that the changing eating habits are common and this trend is good. Dining out including fastfood has been popular in a hectic society for the last three decades. Many people critisize that eating fastfood could impact on our health aAnd causes illness such as obesity. However, here are huge advantages for dining out.

Firstly, efficiency of fast-food. Let’s take Mcdonald for example. We need just 5min to eat hamburgers.when we are in a hurry. Besides, we can intake high calorie within a short time. Fastfood is reratively high calorie as many people point out. But it can be beneficial as the other side of the coin. It’s good for business people who work as a bee. They don't have any leeway to enjoy meal. 2 hours lunch like Italian? No way! What a procrastination it is in fast-paced environment! It’s very effcient for us to utilize fastfood.

Secondly, we can expect to reduce burden for cooking. Recently, women have played important roles in our society and they pursue their own carieer. They don't have leeway to cook after work. In this case, dining out is effective to reduce their burden. For example, my wife has her own job. She is up to her neck. Therefore, I don't want to impose a burden on her to cook dinner after work. We usually go out dining when we have meal togherther.

I belive dining out helps us to generate leeway in our life.

In conclusion, the changing eating habits are good things. Rather, it’s inevitable in our society. Anyway, humbugger of BurgerKing/ french fry of Macdonald is the best combination

The borderline between luxury and necessity

2007-08-28T07:21:00.001-07:00

The boderline between luxury and necessity seemed to be clearer in the past.
The demarcation lied between "must" and "want."
Today, however, to define the clear borderline seems more complicated
because our living condition has dramatically changed for the last decades.
I would like to talk about how the boerderline has changed by using
following point.

Some of goods have been rapidly transformed in the public’s eyes from luxury toward necessity. Let’s take air conditioner for example. According to one statistics, air conditioner is now considered necessity by seven-in-ten adults up from 50% in 1996. The other day, two tragic deaths hit Japan. One 84 year old female living without any air conditioner died from heat exhaustion/heat stroke. The other case is like this. One child left in a car without any air conditioner died from heat exhaustion too. Temperature in a car could reach at 50 or 60 degree on hot summer day. To prevent them, especially vulnerable people against harsh condition such as the elderly and children from death, air conditioner is necessity for them. This is the equipment not only for comfortable but also for surviving.

In conclusion, the borderline between luxury and necessity is demarcation between “survive” and “die”. Goods seemingly categolized in luxury can become necessity owing to circumstance.

How to encourage companies to create sustainable business

2007-08-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

Companies play an important role to preserve our priceless environment. It’s very difficult to encourage companies to create sustainable business. The first purpose of companies is to make profit. Many companies appear to tackle with sustainable business citing “CSR” which stands for Corporate Social Resposibility. I’m afraid that sustainable activity follows making profit in reality.

To enhance the activity, here is one idea here.

Establishment of evaluation/ranking system. I propose audit body formed by media/authorities/government officers as watchdog. They should be evaluated by the audit body. Companies are significantly sensitive to media coverage. Therefore, they will make strong effor to earn good reputation from public. For example, evaluation is done by various aspects such as how much one company could reduce carbon-dioxide emission? What kind of environmentally-friendly products it release? Sony develops Bio Battery using a glucose solution. Ten points plus. Radio-active contamination of TEPCO. 100 points minus! Like this. This is not humorous comparison. In fact, the stock price of Sony after it anounced the Bio Battery went up 10%.

Through this corporate’s effort to earn reputation , we can encourage companies to create sustainable business.

In conclusion, I believe evaluation system is effective to arise company’s awareness for sustainable business.

leather and prunella

Dropped Tourist number

I don't need extream nationalism

After long interval....

Day 1st in Thai land

Which has the bigger impact TV or the internet?

Changing in women's attitude towards their career

Why are Japanese people getting married later and living with their parents longer?

Take-san!

What will be more important in the future technology or the environment?

Would you like to travel into space?

How different will our lives be in fifty years?

Is space reserch worthwhile or a waste of resources?

Does money lead to a happy life?

Does a long life equal a happy life?

What has caused the current dilemma of water shortages around the world

Big corporations and environmental sustainability

Assisting the victims of natural disasters

Who is threatening the preservation of nature on the planet today?

What are the main environmental concerns facing Japan?

Is it possible to stop the destruction of tropical rain forests?

Should students be educated differently based on intellectual ability?

Why do you think bullying is increasingly a problem in today's schools?

Which is more important for children, emotional development or intellectual development?

The importance of curiosity in education

How to improve the quality of education in Japanese universities

Recent trends in youth culture

How is globalization affected the world economy?

The most important characteristics of entrepreneurship

Japan's role in the development of third world countries

Should a person be forced to retire at a certain age?

How has Western corporate culture changed workers' attitudes in Japan?

Recent trends amongst young workers

part-time work vs full-time work

When is the generation gap most apparent in modern society?

My definition of "Freedom"

The importance of expressing oneself

Is America's cultural influence positive or negative?

Is religion important in today's society?

Are we too materialistic?

How has nature influenced Japanese art and culture?

Do entry checks stop terrorists?

high income of sports player

Commercialization of sports(Olympic games)

Learning Asian language and culture

The biggest threat disease for mankin

How does the declining number of student affect education

Increase in so-called freeters and NEET

How to tackle with declining birth rates

Are wars ever justified?

Imaging life without the internet

Being honest is the best way to keep good relationship?

Privacy invasion in modern society

Is Japan a comfortable country for foreigners to live in?

How can we eliminate poverty in Africa?

Does Japan contribute enough towards world stability?

Is a sense of national identity important in this age of globalization?

Do public opinion have strong impact on political change in Japan?

How has "terrorist attack 911" changed world?

Pros/Cons of Japan's peace constitution/ ARTICLE 9.

Women in politics

feudalistic traits in modern Japan society

Do the media control our opinions?

Do computer impair people's verbal communication skill?

Oriental medicine vs. Western medicine(Healthカテゴリのとりこぼしネタ)

Difference between newspaper and TV as information sources.

Are current efforts to solve the problem of global warming sufficient? (Big corporations and environmental responsibility) 環境問題の取りこぼしネタ

Will alternative energy sources be efficient enough to replace fossil fuel sources in the near future(環境問題の取りこぼしネタ)

Crime in the information age

Are people happy in digital society?

Are Japanese children spoiled?(Educationネタの取りこぼしなので後回しでお願いします)

Is social chasm growing in Japanese society

The problems facing senior citizens in an aging society

Who is the role-model for children?(Educationネタの取りこぼしなので後回しでお願いします)

Government's responsibility to take care of the elderly

Problems of increasing single mothers in advanced countries

changing lifestyle of children in cities

How to improve Japan’s international image?

The future of space travel

Do the benefits outweigh the dangers of nuclear power energy?

Are current efforts to solve the problem of global warming sufficient? (Big corporations and environmental responsibility)　環境問題の取りこぼしネタ