This was enjoyable, especially given that I was in Tokyo and Kyoto last November. It was impressive then and interesting to hear how more so 20 years ago. Nepalese hotel staff in both cities. It seems reality is forcing changes to the long held immigration attitudes.
I disagree with Tom's take that mass immigration is the only answer for Japan's demographic decline. I've known the country well for the past 25 years and I just can't see it working here — it'd be worse than what's happening in much of Europe, and the growing mess we experienced in Germany.
To me, it seems that the Japanese will have to choose between potential economic growth at the price of extreme social upheaval versus accepting a lower standard of living while preserving their culture. I think that's a perfectly legitimate choice, and one that should be discussed openly, without stigma or disingenuous accusations of 'racism'. Only the Japanese can decide what sort of society they'd like to live in. My feeling is that they'll choose culture.
An interesting discussion. Like Tom, I'm curious to see where it goes.
This was enjoyable, especially given that I was in Tokyo and Kyoto last November. It was impressive then and interesting to hear how more so 20 years ago. Nepalese hotel staff in both cities. It seems reality is forcing changes to the long held immigration attitudes.
Thanks Carl, I'm glad you found it interesting.
I disagree with Tom's take that mass immigration is the only answer for Japan's demographic decline. I've known the country well for the past 25 years and I just can't see it working here — it'd be worse than what's happening in much of Europe, and the growing mess we experienced in Germany.
To me, it seems that the Japanese will have to choose between potential economic growth at the price of extreme social upheaval versus accepting a lower standard of living while preserving their culture. I think that's a perfectly legitimate choice, and one that should be discussed openly, without stigma or disingenuous accusations of 'racism'. Only the Japanese can decide what sort of society they'd like to live in. My feeling is that they'll choose culture.
An interesting discussion. Like Tom, I'm curious to see where it goes.