In Japanese culture, it is not normal for people to choose a side, no matter how much they have their preference or opinion, they usually remain exempt. In this article, we are going to talk about this aspect of the Japanese, the free culture.
In Brazil, the word isentão has become a pejorative term, which defines someone who does not take sides on a particular issue, especially in politics, laws, and other controversial matters. Still, this term can be used for anyone who wishes to remain neutral in any aspect.
Some call the exempt hypocrites, probably because they have an opinion, but they do not wish to expose them or support those who hold the same opinion as they do. In Brazil, having this attitude ends up generating fights and hatred.
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How do you see the Culture of Isentão in Japan?
If a Japanese person decides not to get involved in a certain matter, not to choose a side, he does so out of respect for both people. Japanese people also feel that taking sides on an issue can cause a lot of trouble for both.
Japan preys on the peace of others, and whenever a person is forced to choose a certain thing, he jeopardizes that peace. No matter how important it is, the Japanese remain as neutral and detached as possible.
Another thing that keeps the Japanese free is fear and shyness. Culturally the Japanese are ashamed to express what they think, this causes a big social problem.
There is also a Japanese saying that goes:
The nail that sticks out is hammered down.
This means that when you stand out, you will be subject to criticism. This is one of the main reasons the Japanese don't honestly express their opinion, keeping it only to themselves.
It may seem like a bad thing, but this attitude has many benefits, it is one of the great responsible for the peace and harmony that exists throughout Japan. As not everything is flowers, unfortunately being exempt also has its negative points.
The problem of being exempt in Japan
The Japanese end up taking this exemption to very extreme levels which can end up being a big problem in the country. Some exempt themselves from things that should receive attention, such as bullying, unfairness at work, and some inflations.
In the case of ijime or bullying in Japanese schools, both other students and teachers remain indifferent to the events between the victim and the bully. After all, students can become victims themselves, and fear causes them to ignore the victim or make her suffer even more.
The culture of exemption in Japan also makes women pay less for equal work, turns a blind eye to sexist things, allows inequality and injustice in many areas of Japan and its culture.
Not getting involved is part of Japanese culture, causing these and many other social problems that are constantly discussed in Brazil and around the world. Fortunately, the culture of exemption makes peace benefits occur in various aspects of the country.
What do I think about the exemption?
I am an impartial person, especially in politics, but I have my religious reasons. Once a believer fought with me because I said I don't vote... Thus completely breaking the freedom of choice that each citizen has.
If the medium, neutrality or exemption is one of the options a person has to choose from, I see absolutely no problem. If someone who wants me to take her side gets angry, or sad that I choose to stay neutral, that's her problem! I have that right!
Not to mention I write on a site with both right and left readers, imagine if I pick a side? I already generate a lot of discussion when I write an article on controversial subjects, what about politics?
Some youtubers are criticized for not choosing a side, I will probably be criticized for that as well. Others are criticized just for choosing a side, as was the case with Senhor youtuber Nilson Izaias for voting 17.
I don't choose the best console, despite being a Nintendo player. I don't criticize Android, as much as I hate and use IOS. I do not support the Right, as much as I identify with their ideas and I hate the involvement of politicians in many areas.
It is clear that I am not 100% unbiased, I have my preferences and choices, but I don't force anyone to think like me, nor do I criticize someone else for thinking differently. In fact, I think it's pretty stupid those senseless discussions that happen on the internet.
I have already written in an article about movimentos sociais: If a person wants to change the world, get away from the computer and go clean your room and help your family and neighbors. Despite this, I still enjoy writing these long texts to make people reflect.
Desde cedo, os japoneses limpam seus bairros e escolas, não gastam seu tempo discutindo opiniões pessoais, nem ficam brigando e caçando encrencas. Tente fazer o que estiver em seu alcance, não gaste seu tempo se estressando à toa discutindo com pessoas como eu fazia.