Japan's Social System
Japan’s social system is different from what is considered normal in the Western world. While some ancient practices have persisted, the post-war reconstruction of the country modified social life. The first reading covers important aspects of Japanese life such as alcoholism, codependency, domesticity, the corporation’s role in society, and the role of women in the Japanese family. The author argues that the normalization of alcohol abuse has worsened the crisis in the country (Borovoy 44). It is odd that heavy drinking is the norm in one of the most productive societies in the world. Excessive alcohol and subsequent passing out is not frowned upon, as is the case in Western societies. One of the wife’s implicit roles is to take care of her husband when he is drunk. The societal perspective on alcoholism has made the problem thrive without being monitored since even medical practitioners have not adopted the disease model of the condition. The first reading, however, raises the question how Japan has insulated itself from Western influence, especially with the information technology age (Borovoy 68). The unique set-up was developed despite the American occupation.
Reviewing Fukuda-San's Story and the Discourse of Motherhood
The second reading reviews Fukuda-San’s story and the discourse of motherhood in modern Japan. Chapter 4 reveals she struggles with an alcoholic husband. Her case is a familiar one among Japanese housewives. However, she is regarded as a success story because she stood up to her husband and initiated his recovery. The narrative illustrates a paradigm shift in Japanese society. As the author argues, while it is only one instance, it could inspire other housewives to be proactive when dealing with spouse alcoholism (Borovoy 117). It could potentially change the position of women in Japanese society. Chapter 5 emphasizes the importance of motherhood in the community. It defines womanhood in Japan and has shaped the society into what it is today. It still seems strange that such a socially responsible and conservative country has normalized alcoholism and the immorality associated with drinking dens. Is there a progressive society with such contradicting moral principles?
Work Cited
Borovoy, Amy. The Too-Good Wife: Alcohol, Dependency, and the Politics of Nurturance in Post-war Japan. University of California Press, 2005.
