I fully support the view of the Feb. 1 editorial "Reckless politicization of textbooks," as it made me ponder several things.
I agree that including territorial issues in textbooks might not help young people live in this age of globalization. Isn't it true that our political leaders have severely criticized certain neighboring countries for providing that kind of education? Why do they suddenly want to adopt a similar policy?
Everybody can understand that Japanese children should love their country, but aren't they expected to build not only a beautiful Japan but also a peaceful world in the future?
Japanese lawmakers should refrain from imposing their views on children and education. (Of course, politicians will never admit that they are trying to do this.) As children grow and become adults, how will they become problem-solving politicians if they all hold the same views as those in the government today? In a sense, they are future politicians regardless of what career they pursue!
Children and education are our diamonds that need to be polished for the future. But how?
How about creating a new chapter in textbooks dealing with "Japan and the World"? The chapter could introduce territorial problems, global warming, immigrant workers, the history of Japanese immigrants, Japan and the energy issue, the role of the United Nations, nuclear power and other issues. This kind of education would play an important role in making a beautiful country and world. Would neighboring countries criticize this?
Politicians are called "lawmakers," but I would also like to call them "future makers." In order to build a future of international coexistence, politicians badly need polishing. I won't comment on how that can be done; they should know how.
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.