Although Japan achieved high economic growth by increasing its industrial productivity, the group-oriented work system that formed the basis of that development effectively sacrificed the rights of the individual, according to freelance journalist Satoshi Kamata.
Kamata, 64, claims that in order for Japan to regain social and economic power, the mentality favoring productivity and competition over an individual's dignity must change.
Various measures need to be taken to achieve this goal, such as changing Japan's education style, which has for too long emphasized competition, control and group-oriented action, he said.