The Essential Concept of "Danshari" for a Stagnant and Declining Society
Japan today faces significant challenges such as an aging population, economic stagnation, and declining trust in political systems. Addressing these issues requires more than conventional reforms; it demands embracing the concept of "Danshari." However, in this context, "Danshari" goes beyond tidying up physical spaces—it’s about reevaluating societal structures to identify what is truly essential and letting go of the rest. Let’s explore how this philosophy can help rejuvenate a stagnant society. What Is "Danshari" and How Can It Be Applied to Society? The Original Meaning of Danshari Danshari is a Japanese term that combines three concepts: Dan (断): To refuse unnecessary things. Sha (捨): To discard what is no longer needed. Ri (離): To detach from material and mental clutter. While traditionally used to describe personal decluttering, the essence of Danshari applies to societal structures as well: identifying inefficiencies, removing outdated practices, ...