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≪FIRST HALF≫

Let’s Talk About Politics

Today, we’ll be discussing the topic of politics and sharing our thoughts in English.

In the recent House of Councilors election, the ruling party lost its majority. Meanwhile, new political parties gained support from people who had previously shown little interest in politics.

As a result, Japan’s political landscape is said to be shifting. At the same time, political campaigning through social media and video platforms is becoming more active, and the ways people receive information and engage with politics are diversifying.

With this background in mind, let’s explore the following questions together.

Make sure to follow the guidelines below to have a respectful discussion.

<Guidelines for Respectful Discussion>

1. Please respect other members’ opinions. Even if you disagree, listen with an open mind.

2. Avoid mentioning specific political party names. Also, do not ask others which party they support.

3. Be mindful of your words so that no one feels uncomfortable or hurt.

4. When talking about other countries’ politics or cultures, speak with respect. Avoid stereotypes or biased comments, and try to base your thoughts on facts.

5. If there’s a question or topic you don’t feel comfortable answering, feel free to pass.

6. Politics involves many different perspectives, and there isn’t always one “correct” answer. The goal of today’s discussion is not to find the right answer, but to share ideas and learn from each other.

<Questions>

1. Do you usually talk about politics with people around you? Or do you tend to avoid it? Why?

2. What is a local or social issue that you’ve been concerned about recently? Why does it matter to you? If possible, please share any personal experiences or stories.

3. Do you vote in elections? How do you gather information when choosing a candidate? If you don’t vote, is there any reason?

4. What qualities do you think make politicians ideal for you? Should politicians be highly knowledgeable experts, or should they represent the perspective of ordinary citizens?

5. In Japanese schools, it is prohibited by law to promote or oppose specific political parties. As a result, discussing the merits or drawbacks of party policies in class is considered taboo. Do you think this system should be changed so that students can learn about politics in a more concrete way?

≪LATTER HALF≫

Oshi

I think many of you have heard of the Japanese words “Oshi” or “Oshikatsu.” These terms have become popular since the 2010s, but their origin goes back to the word “Oshimen,” which was coined by idol fans in the 1980s. The biggest difference between being a regular fan and being an oshi follower is that the latter promotes their oshi more actively and passionately to others.

As mentioned above, the word oshi itself has only recently become widespread, but the act of supporting and adoring some figure or object has existed for centuries at least. In the Edo period, wealthy patrons known as hiiki supported popular kabuki actors, providing them with financial assistance. Among the common people as well, inexpensive books and ukiyo-e prints produced with woodblock printing became widely accessible, and a culture of enjoying such content spread throughout society.

Now, let’s consider the positive effects of having an oshi or enjoying oshikatsu. According to several articles, the following effects are mentioned:

I. Role model – Admiring your oshi and trying to be like them.

II. Self-disclosure – Expressing yourself by telling others what you like.

III. Self-actualization – Shaping your identity through oshikatsu.

IV. Community – Connecting with people who share the same values.

On the other hand, in recent years, concerns have emerged about the radicalization of certain forms of oshikatsu. What was originally intended as a voluntary and enthusiastic activity is now said to be increasingly shaped by systems created by oshi providers, potentially leading to addictive behaviors. I would therefore be interested in hearing your thoughts on oshikatsu and the issues surrounding it.

<Questions>

1. Do you have, or have you ever had, an oshi?

    If this question feels too personal, feel free not to answer.

2. What do you think are the positive and negative effects of having an oshi?

3. What are your thoughts on the recent trends of oshi and oshikatsu?

4. Do you think some form of regulation is necessary regarding the scheme created by providers of oshi that makes followers addicted?

    If so, what kind of regulation do you think would be effective?

    If not, please explain the reasons.

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