What does democracy really mean? And to what extent is it alive in Japan?
To me it seems there are several aspects to democracy:
– Freedom and diversity of ideas: In this regard, I would say Japan is as open and free as any other ‘democtratic’ nation. That isn’t to say that there aren’t taboos or controversial subjects. But those exist in every nation. Japan has its share of courageous writers, intellectuals, and journalists who try to face up to the past, and their threatening, indimitating counterparts. The US has brave public figures who stand up against the war, and those who retaliate in other means. (Dixie chicks anyone?)
– The government’s actions reflecting the will of the people: This to me, seems to be the much more significant implication of a democracy, and I am not confident that in this regard, the government in Japan is democratic. The many right-wing hard-liners at the top of the government continually give the moderates and left-wingers a bad name. Furthermore, their careless comments and short-sighted actions seem to only make things worse for everyone. But then again, Bush isn’t really doing much better.