Comments on: Gaman — The Gritty Japanese Word for an Integral National Characteristic

By: Kym

Kym — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 04:55:38 +0000

In reply to Diane Tincher. *Actually, rather than "needs", I should have written, their own needs / wants. Kids are not focused on what they need to do, for a lot of them it's still about what they *want* to do, and life doesn't work like that.

By: Kym

Kym — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 04:52:23 +0000

In reply to Diane Tincher.

I agree and wish Australian students showed a little more gaman. If parents encouraged their children to show more patience and resilience when in group situations, kids would realise sooner that their own needs won’t always be met before those of others. That’s life in a caring, “compassionate” society – it’s not all about me, is how I see it.

By: Diane Tincher

Diane Tincher — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 01:46:03 +0000

In reply to Lonely Soul. You've raised some common criticisms of the concept of "gaman." From the perspective of an individualist society, like the US, gaman can seem over-the-top, controlling, and smothering. Yet, I see it as integral to a collectivist society. I appreciate living in a culture where people clean up after themselves and others, where I can trust the trains to run on time, and where I know that my smartphone will be right where I had forgotten it.

By: Lonely Soul

Lonely Soul — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 07:10:55 +0000

I am utterly astounded by the persistence of the archaic notion known as “gaman.” It is a concept deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, propagated as a virtue, but its consequences are nothing short of damaging and regressive. This outdated ideology demands that individuals should silently endure hardships without complaint or resistance, promoting a dangerous culture of repressed emotions and perpetuating systemic injustices. “Gaman” glorifies suffering and suppresses the very essence of human expression. It fosters an environment where individuals are expected to bury their true feelings, bear the burdens of discrimination, inequality, and social pressure, all while maintaining a stoic façade. This toxic mindset prevents any meaningful dialogue and dismisses the importance of acknowledging and addressing issues at their core. By idealizing “gaman,” we reinforce harmful power dynamics and normalize the perpetuation of injustice. Instead of challenging oppressive structures and advocating for change, we are encouraged to silently accept the status quo, thereby stifling progress and perpetuating a cycle of systemic inequality. The onus is placed on the marginalized to endure suffering rather than on society to rectify its flaws. Moreover, “gaman” contributes to the mental and emotional burden that individuals bear. The suppression of emotions can lead to psychological distress, creating a ticking time bomb of unresolved feelings. By demanding “gaman” in the face of adversity, we deny individuals the opportunity to heal and grow, trapping them in a perpetual state of emotional turmoil. It is high time we break free from the shackles of “gaman” and embrace a culture that values authenticity, empathy, and active resistance against injustice. We must encourage open dialogue, support one another in times of hardship, and collectively strive for a society where fairness and equality are not mere aspirations but tangible realities. Let us reject the myth of “gaman” and dismantle the structures that perpetuate suffering. We should embrace a new paradigm that celebrates human dignity, resilience, and the power to effect positive change. It is only by challenging the status quo and rejecting harmful expectations that we can build a truly inclusive and compassionate society.