LaKeisha
Why hasn't Japanese rules changed or evolved over time?
Zach F.
Can the Japanese use “ the intertwining code of obligation and shame” in a more relaxed manner to overcome the current economic downslide? In other words, does this culture need to change these pillars, or rather adapt them to the 20th century.
Hannah
How does the rigid social structure of the japanese people affect the stereotypes that we perceive of their culture?
Nicole
Should Americans change their way of a constantly competitive mindset to be more like the mindset in Japanese culture, where people focus on working as a team with no winners or losers? Could Japanese values actually help the American economy?
Danielle
Why are the Japanese so afraid of change? Why do they feel that it is so important to preserve tradition?
Alexa
Could Kristof have been implying that Japan was, in some way, possibly trying to fulfill the model of the so-called Utopian society?
Jerome
Is the love in 2-d similar to Americans and their love of star wars?
Emanuel
Why do many of these anime/manga and the 2-D love obsessors, focus on cute, stylized, preteen girls?
Stephanie B.
Do Japanese men and women have a disadvantage finding true love due to the acceptance of 2-D love in their culture?
Katie
In the article, Honda says that love has become a commodity and it's true value has been lost. Is it contradictory that 2-D love is based on commodities as well?
Marc
If the three main pillars of Japanese ethics are obligation, shame, and the environment that surrounds people, what would be the three main pillars of American ethics?
Stephanie W.
What possible factors in Japanese society are driving these men and women of otaku/2-D lover culture, particularly the men, to feel so alone that it is necessary for them to turn to fictional, 2-dimensional characters for love and support?
Emily
Teamwork appears to be an essential in both American and Japanese societies. Are the Japanese better at building teamwork to better serve their society?
Matt
What are some of the underlying reasons why there is a disconnect between Japanese men and women and what is it about Japanese women that make the men in this article feel that marriage is so difficult to achieve?
Kayo
Although I don't think that this teamwork mindset is especially bad economically since Japan was able to rise up to where it is since post-War, I do wonder... does conforming to the norm not only stifle the ambition, but the creativity and the individuality of the children also?
Alix
Would Nicholas Kristof compare Japan to “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” if he perceived Japanese women/girls as assertive and self-interested?
Katy
It is evident from the article that 2-D love exists in Japan as an alternative lifestyle, but is it overstated? The article gives no indication of how prevalent 2-D love is yet the article is labeled as a "phenomenon" piece. Is this just an example of American desire for Japanese "kookiness" and fantasy?
Kristen
It is known that American children are taught to be winners in life, why does Japan's social structure and ethical code differ so much from the United States? Does this structure link with Japan's history and how has it evolved throughout time?