Japanese workers have a reputation for diligence but, as with all cultural generalizations, the reality is more complicated. Ever wonder why public service is the most coveted line of work for new university graduates? Is it because they actually want to serve the public, or because the pay is relatively high and the job guaranteed for life?

Even if the answer to the latter is "yes," that doesn't mean bureaucrats can't also be hard workers. However, unlike private-sector employees who have to prove themselves on a daily basis, especially now that "lifetime employment" is but a fond memory, public-sector employees can work at their own pace and go home promptly at 5 p.m.

For a more instructive contrast, check out the new Nippon TV drama "Dandarin" (Wednesday, 10 p.m.), which is set in the West Tokyo branch of the Labor Standards Bureau, whose mission is to enforce employment regulations. The series points out an interesting paradox through the actions of its protagonist, a preternaturally earnest transferee named Rin Danda (Yuko Takeuchi), who shows up at the office for her first day of work and immediately talks about inspecting a construction site that is clearly in violation of safety rules.