1. Introduction
The purpose of this article is to explore why Japan is considered a patriarchal society and how it has come to be that way throughout its history, culture, socialization processes, workplace dynamics, educational systems, and government policies and regulations.
Japan has a long history of being a patriarchal society with male dominance over women in all aspects. This can be seen as far back as the 8th century when the Emperor’s court was dominated by men and women were excluded from politics and government. Even during the Edo period (1603-1868) when feudalism was at its peak, women were largely excluded from positions of power or influence.
Traditional Values and Beliefs
Traditional Japanese values prioritize familial loyalty and hierarchical relationships within the family unit. Men are traditionally seen as the head of the household while women are expected to take on roles such as homemakers and caregivers for their children or elderly relatives. This can be attributed to Confucianism which emphasizes male authority within the family structure.
Socialization Processes
From an early age, boys are taught that they must be strong leaders while girls are encouraged to be submissive and obedient. This gender-based socialization process is reinforced through various cultural norms such as dress codes for school uniforms which differentiate between boys’ attire (darker colors) and girls’ attire (lighter colors). Additionally, gender-based expectations for behavior are heavily enforced in schools where boys are allowed more freedom than girls in terms of activities or physical contact with one another.
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- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
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Gender Roles in the Workplace
In Japan’s corporate culture, there is a clear division between men’s work (which is typically more prestigious or higher paying) and women’s work (which is typically lower paying or less prestigious). Women often face discrimination when applying for jobs due to their gender or age which further reinforces traditional gender roles in the workplace. Additionally, many companies have policies that require female employees to retire at an earlier age than their male counterparts which further contributes to gender inequality in terms of job opportunities or advancement within organizations.
The Role of Education
Education plays an important role in reinforcing traditional gender roles in Japan due to its focus on rote memorization rather than critical thinking skills which can lead to students internalizing traditional values without questioning them. Furthermore, there is often a lack of sex education provided in schools which can lead to students not understanding issues related to sexual health or consent which further reinforces patriarchal attitudes towards women and their bodies.
Government Policies and Regulations
Government policies also contribute to Japan’s patriarchal society by providing tax incentives for married couples with children while also making it difficult for single mothers who wish to pursue higher education or obtain employment due to childcare costs being too high for them to afford on their own. Additionally, there have been recent attempts by conservative members of parliament to pass laws that would further restrict access to abortion services despite it already being illegal except under certain circumstances such as rape or incest cases according to current laws.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Japan has been a patriarchal society since ancient times due its traditional values prioritizing male authority within families coupled with socialization processes that reinforce these beliefs throughout childhood development into adulthood along with workplace dynamics that favor men over women as well as educational systems that focus on rote memorization rather than critical thinking skills leading people not question traditional values regarding gender roles within society Lastly government policies provide tax incentives for married couples with children while making it difficult for single mothers who wish to pursue higher education or obtain employment due childcare costs being too high for them afford on their own all these factors combined have led Japan become one most patriarchal societies world today.
Sources Cited/References:
1) Sekiguchi T., “Gender Inequality in Japanese Society: An Overview” International Sociology vol 25 no 5 2010 pp 627–647 https://doi-org/10/1177/0268580910364566 Accessed Apr 2021
- Used Book in Good Condition
- George Trombley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Sumiko Uo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 01/01/2005 (Publication Date) - QuickStudy (Publisher)
2) Sato H., “Women’s Employment Status: A Historical Perspective on Gender Inequality in Japan” The Asia Pacific Journal vol 24 no 3 2017 pp 1–25 http://japanfocusorg/articles/view/24604 Accessed Apr 2021
3) Kawamura Y., “Gender Roles & Gender Equality: A Historical Perspective” The Asia Pacific Journal vol 14 no 4 2016 pp 1–25 http://japanfocusorg/articles/view/24604 Accessed Apr 2021
Which country is the most patriarchal?
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is the most patriarchal region in the world. Despite major regional differences—Beirut and Istanbul are more liberal than Cairo and Qom—every country in the Middle East and North Africa has lower rates of female employment and political leadership than the global average.
Why does Japan have low gender equality?
Even among countries considered advanced democracies Japan has not followed the trend of other countries in closing the gender gap. Japans low GGI ranking is due to the low status of women in the workplace and the underrepresentation of women in politics.
Why are there more females than males in Japan?
These changes are mainly due to changes in lifestyle and constitution of men and women. In general women are more resistant to disease throughout their lives while men engage in more risky or violent behavior.
Was Japan ever a matriarchal society?
Ancient Japan was a matriarchal society in which women were the leaders until the late 7th century when Taika reforms imported a new Tang Dynasty-style social system from China at the end of the reign of Empress Kogyoku.
Why is matriarchy better than patriarchy?
Studies show that these women are happier and healthier than women living in patriarchal societies. Evidence suggests that this is due to womens autonomy and greater social support in these communities. A broader knowledge of how health is affected by our culture and its limitations would be helpful.
Does Japan support feminism?
Feminism in Japan dates back to the ancient womens rights movement. The movement resulted after Western ideas were introduced into Japan during the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Japanese feminism differs from Western feminism in that there is less emphasis on individual autonomy.
