The Unconscious Influence of Karma, Duty, and Public Fairness in Japanese Culture: The Need for Adaptability in Decision Making

Japanese culture is deeply influenced by concepts such as karma, duty (or "giri"), and a strong sense of public fairness. These values, often operating unconsciously, have a significant impact on individual actions and societal harmony, guiding daily behaviors and decision-making processes. However, in today’s rapidly changing world, these traditional cultural values alone may not be enough to address the complex issues of modern society. Particularly, the lack of "adaptability in judgment" or the ability to make pragmatic decisions—evaluating situations on a case-by-case basis—has become a significant challenge for contemporary Japan.

The Influence of Karma and Duty

In Japanese culture, karma (the belief that one’s actions will affect their future) and duty (the idea that one’s actions in life will have repercussions on future generations) subtly influence behavior and decision-making. These values foster a mindset that values harmony with others, avoids disrupting social equilibrium, and seeks to evade the consequences of one’s past actions. The emphasis on maintaining peace and cooperation is deeply embedded in the consciousness of Japanese people, leading them to prioritize the well-being of others and avoid conflict or confrontation.

However, when these values are overly emphasized, they may sometimes hinder the ability to make flexible decisions. The strong cultural pressure to preserve harmony can lead to resistance in adjusting decisions once they have been made, resulting in a tendency to avoid changes, even when circumstances demand them.

The Lack of Adaptability in Judgment

Adaptability in judgment refers to the ability to respond to changes in circumstances or environments by selecting the most appropriate action. However, in Japanese society, there is often a strong emphasis on maintaining the course once a decision is made, which can limit the ability to adapt to new or unexpected situations. Particularly in a society where issues are often framed in terms of binary "right or wrong" thinking, the ability to make nuanced judgments and take a middle path when faced with complex situations is sometimes lacking.

In today’s unpredictable and complex world, decisions cannot simply be based on a clear-cut binary understanding of right or wrong. Issues in politics, economics, and the environment, for example, require flexible, situational judgment—being able to weigh different factors and adapt as new information becomes available.

The Importance of Pragmatic, Case-by-Case Judgment

The concept of "ze-ze-hi-hi" (literally "this is right, this is wrong") represents the idea of discerning right from wrong according to the situation and making decisions based on that understanding. In Japan, there is often resistance to changing a decision once it has been made, and this presents challenges in addressing modern-day problems. Instead of seeking a singular, "perfect" solution, contemporary society increasingly requires a flexible approach, recognizing that the best choice may vary depending on the situation.

In areas such as globalization, technological advancements, and environmental issues, there is rarely one single "correct" option. Rather, individuals and societies must evaluate their options based on the specific context and the long-term impact of their decisions. In these times, having the ability to think flexibly and analyze the potential consequences of each choice becomes a crucial skill.

Balancing Cultural Values and Flexibility

The cultural awareness of karma, duty, and public fairness is vital for maintaining societal harmony. These values are foundational for promoting collaboration and cohesion within communities. However, in the face of today’s rapidly changing and complex global environment, there is a growing need for individuals and organizations to develop adaptable judgment skills that respond to the unique circumstances they encounter.

By preserving the cultural value of harmony, while also embracing the courage to make decisions quickly when necessary or even compromise in certain situations, societies can advance collectively. In the context of globalization and fast-paced societal changes, it is critical to find a balance between traditional values and the flexibility required for making decisions that will lead to a better future.

Conclusion

In Japanese culture, unconscious awareness of karma, duty, and public fairness plays a crucial role in maintaining social harmony. However, in order to address the complex challenges of today’s world, it is equally important to cultivate the ability to make flexible decisions, incorporating "ze-ze-hi-hi" reasoning. By respecting cultural values while adopting a broader, adaptable perspective and acting in accordance with the specific demands of each situation, Japan and its people can better navigate the complexities of the modern era. This adaptability will be essential in solving contemporary problems and fostering a more resilient society.