No Self-Motivation in Japan

Letter to Japan Times

Maiko Nonaka suggests [“Self Motivation, a tough course” letter p.16, 28Sept05] highlights an important difference between Western & Japanese values, as well as education systems. He asserts “Japanese students seem to go to university to play” and “people should not forget studying is their duty”. Obligation is a very weak motivator because its based on fear. Where is the ‘self’ (motivation) in those aspirations? Japanese are not so ambitious or goal-orientated. Neither are a lot of westerners by default, since it’s a virtue that stems from egoist values, rather than the servitude that depresses Japanese souls or the low self-esteem that undermines western ambition. If Japan is to retain the pressure (or discipline) inherent in the collectivist model, it will have to carry the cost burden of misguided and unmotivated youth. Exposure to western culture creates a new set of expectations, but sadly no methodology for achieving goals. Japanese students “end up wondering what they are studying for” at 18-25yo because they didn’t develop a sense of purpose when they were 10yo. A healthy ego is a pre-requisite. The ‘kawaii’ values instilled by the 1970s parents are only undermining their children’s intellectual development. It will no easy transition for Japan.

Source: http://www.japantimes.co.jp/ric.htm
Published: http://www.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/getarticle.pl5?rc20051009a1.htm