IDENTITY | 同一性

Identity is an individual’s comprehension of oneself. Social class, race, and gender are all examples of what comprises one's identity. Subjectivity takes this concept one step further, placing identity within a larger social context. Interrelationships, projections, and stereotypes are examples of subjectivity (Donovan, Spring 2013). This post will provide examples of factors that shape and influence identity in Japan today.

Factors that Influence Identity

Japan and the Global Gender Gap

This video supports reported statistics regarding women in the workplace and education.  Despite the fact that women make up 41% of Japanese university populations, they still earn just more than 50% of male co-workers in similar roles, and are vastly underrepresented in leadership positions.  Japanese women also experience longer work days, approximately 3-10% longer than men, 57% of which is non-market oriented (Seager, 2012).

Education/Opportunity

I don't interfere with my husband's business, not with my mouth, hands or legs."

-Kumiko Hashimoto, wife of former Japanese Premier

Why is this relevant when considering identity and gender?  As stated in the video above, Japan has the second largest economy in the world, a highly educated population, yet little economic or political power rests in the hands of women.  Understanding that ascribed gender roles have an impact on society at large, but also on individual identity is important.  When we look at the history of Japanese views on gender roles, we can begin to understand why individuals react the way they do when traditional economic and social structures change.

Human Disposability

Japan's economic decline has impacted men and women in ways push the issue of identity and the larger context of subjectivity.  As with any dramatic change in a society, individuals are being challenged to rethink identity and agency within a social structure that serves certain traits over others.  Read the article, accompanied with the photojournalistic work of Shiho Fukada here.

Further Reading:
Sharing of Housework and Childcare in Contemporary Japan
Japanese Unemployement