kazetsukai's past comments

  • 1

    kazetsukai

    As mentioned it is the "ideologues", those who believe that they are "righteous" by having lived in an "idealized" world that are "dangerous". It is not "reality" to demand multiple or continuous apologies and compensation from the decedents of those who may have committed atrocities during what was a terrible war. That is exactly the kind of attitude that keeps the Jews and Muslims at war for thousands of years

    If you do really have the "idealism" for peace, work toward not "blaming" one or the other, but in finding "workable" ways to bring finality to all this emotional outbursts. Otherwise it will take many many more generations to settle all this... and those generations don't even know what a war is like. Then they may even start one just to find out. Then what?...

    Posted in: S Korean activists to put 'comfort woman' statues in Asia

  • -3

    kazetsukai

    It is the teachers that created and sustained the system... They allowed the political system to structure the system as it now exists. Too many high degrees from so called renowned schools but with little regard for the "results"... The same with most institutionalized school systems.... all over the world...

    As long as the general public empowers politicians and teachers the right to educate their children, that will continue. As long as qualification as teacher is determined by education and degrees and not the results that the children get, the same will continue.

    It is good that those who see "retirement" money as their reward and Not the students" future... do retire. Get rid of all of them.

    After all a Nation "future" depends on the well educated and informed population. So a government must do what is right to clean up the system for the benefit of its people and their future.

    Posted in: Teachers, police rush to quit before retirement pay cut

  • 1

    kazetsukai

    Just to add... the dominating political party that elected Obama for his second term is backed by a population that do not question rhetoric and reality... so Japan cannot "expect" anything... substantial... from the USA in time of need. With the cut in military in the USA... it is questionable at best... regardless of high tech....

    Posted in: Japan launches 2 intelligence satellites

  • -1

    kazetsukai

    The positioning of the satellite is the key. In any case, Japan knows the real threat is from China which directly and indirectly "controls" N. Korea. If N. Korea takes action, it is a "cover" a "facade" to hide some clandestine activity that China is doing at the same time, economically or otherwise.

    As for the need... Japan finally realized that USA cannot be relied upon any longer.... even for the intelligence. Especially true since Clinton was Sec. State, now Kerry and most important, Obama's actions (not his rhetoric) which ignores the interests, security and safety of US allies.

    Posted in: Japan launches 2 intelligence satellites

  • 2

    kazetsukai

    Well... the war... militarily is over. Everything started with a simple economic motivated aggression encouraged and initially supported by even the USA and Great Britain and most European nations at that time. It ended with a lot of human suffering and losses with very little satisfaction for those appeared to have won against Japan, that experienced the continuation of that war by Communist Russia and China; namely China, Korea, and Viet Nam.

    The subsequent lack of satisfactory moral, ethical, emotional, and visibly and physically graspable benefits following the winning of the war, continue to "haunt" those who are seeking "identity" and "closure", be it symbolically or economically. As all wars are "economic wars" the obvious is that the resolution sought by those making claims, especially at the governmental / political levels are basically economically motivated, taking advantage of the yet unsettled victims and their cries. It is especially important for those political powers to do so when economic and political woes threaten the stability of the country and the retention of power. So it is with China and Korea.

    While many other nations and people even here in Japan (including Viet Nam, Indonesia, and even N. Korea in its own way), have "continued on" / "live on forward" to actively and positively recover from the effects of the war, economically and otherwise. Those who feel "victimized" continue to cry out for "recognition" and subsequently "assistance" in the guise of “compensation” of one form or another.

    With the full blown "economic war" and possible military one on the horizon with the apparent weakening posture of the one very domineering USA, those demanding voices become louder and actions bolder. Remember… WWII ended only 70 years ago and we still had and have WARS all over the world even when USA dominated and tried to “police” the conflicts. And… the UN is as all knows pathetically “corrupt” and “misguided” with almost NO power whatsoever other than to “take” money from the wealthier countries in the name of “humanity”, playing on the “guilt” conscience of those doing well.

    Arguing the past is very "dangerous" for all nations at this time. From Europe to, Middle East to even Asia there are economic instability and inequity with more and more unable to meet "expectations". In most cases that is not "reality". However, the massive populations motivated by "self-righteous ideologies" and "physical needs", empowered by communication and transportation technologies and the availability of massive destructive arsenals, will be the "spark" to a larger scale confrontation. All that a few organized groups need is the "cause", the "excuse" to take action without regard for what that may bring.

    It appears that both China and S. Korea want that spark.

    Posted in: S Korean activists to put 'comfort woman' statues in Asia

  • 1

    kazetsukai

    Again the same arguments continue.

    Pain and suffering during any war is difficult to forget for both the victorious and the defeated. However, for those that could not claim either, there is much to be desired in order to find closure. That is more for individuals and for groups that "identify" with each other's need for "closure". Such is the case with both Korea and China that even after the end of the conflict, faced and undesired new conflict called the Korean War immediately thereafter that actually benefited the victor and the defeated of WWII. Both Korea and China suffered the losses during that 2nd conflict and at the end had nothing to show or be pleased about.

    Even with the trillions of dollars poured in by both USA and Japan after the conflict to both Korea and China, there was very little for those few who felt their humanity taken away to find closure. While apologies may matter, to those affected, it does not help that nation as a whole to go forward when government use such issues for political purposes. That is exactly the kind of thinking that has kept the Muslim people and the Jewish people in conflict for over 4,000 years.

    Posted in: S Korea says Japan must heal wounds of wartime excesses

  • -1

    kazetsukai

    I'm glad that this discussion has been rather rational and with limited sarcasm, something which has dominated this topic in 2012. Let's all try to keep it that way. Thank you everyone.

    The article by Reuters is much more pragmatic and to the point than many others posted here regarding the issues. Like wise your responses have been quite relative and productive. Hopefully some government officials are also thinking along similar lines and evaluating your thoughts as well.

    As long as there are nation states and there are governments, it is definitely its responsibility to　maintain "sufficient" military capability to fend off any intrusions or attack on the capability of its people to survive. Finally, Japan has started to discard its "idealized" and totally meaningless security concepts in this still uncivilized world. It is only 250 years or so since the sword carrying samurai society and only 70 years from WWII.

    Japan and the Japanese people may have changed rather quickly and adjusted to internationalism and the current technological world, but many nations still have not or are unable to. For those with large populations dominated by selfish and powerful people or governments and even idealism, change may not be as quick. Therefore, ALL people must be on guard. The Romans learned the same after hundreds of years of dominance.

    Unlike the USA, Japan has a rather compact and unified physical country with differing but similar minded population. Something which makes Japan not only unique but also powerful. As long as the younger generation here can "wakeup" from their idealistic dream centered concept of life which the last 2 generations have created, Japan still have a chance for survival.

    As for the USA, as long as the current extremely liberal educational system and concepts exist, and the divided general population not only culturally but racially with multiple idealisms with radically differing living standards rely on "legality" and "social equality", and not on basic human values and principles, a major change will most probably occur . In that process, Japan will be exposed to "dangers" which even if USA wanted to help, would not be able to. Such is the situation in the Middle East. So therefore, it is imperative that our host country, Japan, do move toward self-preservation and military strength.

    Posted in: Japan likely to increase defense spending due to territorial disputes

  • 1

    kazetsukai

    Sad that this controversy does not address the real problems with the entire system and the poor management of most universities that rely on government subsidies rather than to effectively run them. The entire program disregards the purpose and responsibility of an educational institution which should be for the students and for the society's benefit.

    That is why they are NPO's. However, it appears that the government puts limits and restrictions as well as academic requirements with multitudes of policies and procedures that effectively prevents sound management and opens doors for abuse. Other than for some researched based schools, there is limited "funding" to run them. The primary source being enrollment, the decline in enrollment means there is a need to reduce ineffective schools and not increase them. Then there is a need to make those that do exist much more efficient and productive.

    Posted in: Tanaka backpedals on approving 3 new universities

  • -7

    kazetsukai

    SAD... is the word.

    SAD that in every country, election or not, they only see what they want to see and act on what they want to act on. That goes for both political parties in the USA. I am guessing it is not much different here in Japan.

    I am also guessing that most participants here, are motivated what they want to see. As some has indicated, LIFE is basically economics. From peace to war, it all depends on how one views his/her standard of living and how and when he/she is getting more than the other person without having to work for it. Those in power are working for it and those without power are working to give away that power for a guarantee of getting the minimum those in power are willing to give.

    The problem is, we are now fully connected internationally and no one country / nation can ignore the rest. Obama wants to distribute American wealth (taxpayer's money) to the rest of the world in the hope that it will make things better while US economy deteriorates steadily due to autocratic sanctions and controls, which includes Obamcare . The problem is all the other nations just want to take and not share. The problem is, the wealth is not going to those who can use it and can make a difference. It is going to those who have power and want to keep it for themselves. When too much wealth leaves USA, it weakens the nation.

    If this keeps up, our host country will have no support. Hope that the US Congress keep it strong and continue to support Japan. From all indications of actions past, Mr. Obama is NOT interested in giving Japan such support. Action speaks louder than rhetoric.

    Posted in: OBAMA RE-ELECTED, SAYS BEST IS YET TO COME

  • 2

    kazetsukai

    What is NOT covered by the article is that most (over 70%) of the colleges and universities in Japan are going bankrupt if not for government subsidies. regardless of the quality of education here in Japan, colleges do NOT give out scholarships and grants as in the USA. More Japanese students apply for US colleges and universities and get scholarships. It not only give the students a better life experience, but it is much cheaper to attend in the USA even if living costs are considered. Less travel time too.

    Now more students come from foreign countries to Japan than do Japanese students. With much competition within Japan and less students applying, many are expected to close within the nest 5 to 10 years. Regardless of who is starting the school, it only drains the Japanese government due to the necessary subsidies.

    It is like giving away money to have kids.

    Posted in: Tanaka under fire for canceling plans to open 3 new universities

  • -1

    kazetsukai

    The debt problem is the Japanese government debt... basically what they borrowed from its people and what they must pay out --- far exceeds the revenues. Same problem all nations from the USA to Europe face today. Basically it is the social giveaway programs that is killing the finances of the country which directly affects the economy. The entire world depends on the stability of countries like the USA, Japan, Germany, England and even China. So the rest of the world instead of trying to help Japan or the USA is still looking to be "saved" by Japan and the USA.

    One reason for the two is because China is in fact "unstable" and "unreliable" as a world community nation.

    As for the political implication, the rest of the world do not want a strong nationalistic Japan. If Japan decides to go Japan's needs and concerns first, the rest of the world may not be able to get the kind of "bail outs" that Japan has so far furnished at the expense of Japan's people and Japan's economy. Of course all economies are "related" and "affect" each other very closely, but the stable ones offset and counterbalances the unstable. Moody and IMF use the ratings, the "organizational" and "so called expertise" to influence every country into financing the recovery from mistakes made by others.

    One other factor is the USA under its current administration has supported more of financing the "undesirable" countries of the Middle East, hoping that such funding will reduce the possibility of war and conflict. In other words "buy" peace. But unfortunately that is not happening. Instead, the funds are being used for aggressive purposes against the USA and related primarily Christian nations. Plus the USA itself is unstable. So there is very little to expect from the USA. The option at this time is Germany, Britain and Japan. But, both Germany and England is stuck with the European problem. So they must pick on Japan.

    Posted in: Japan's political impasse a concern for debt outlook: Moody's

  • 4

    kazetsukai

    Women in Japan going to work.... makes sense and realistic. The problem is a large percentage of women in Japan are too "spoiled" and too "powerful" to want to go to work.

    They not only control the family "purse" and give "spending money" to husbands that work 12 to 14 hours a day, but spend much by themselves with an excuse that it is for their "children", and divert that to beauty care, health care, and "pachinko", if not to have fun with their friends. If they have children, much of the time is taken care of by government sponsored and often paid for childcare centers, and sending the children to Juku, giving them time to "gossip" and otherwise "point fingers" and "blame" everyone else but themselves for the poor economy.

    Besides from what I can see, most married women do not want to work at regular jobs but rather stay at home and enjoy TV or some expensive hobby like golf, considering that is the marriage perk. One reason why foreign nationals can come to japan and find many jobs waiting for them.

    Can you imagine the money a family would save if women stopped going to "pachinko"?

    Such "negative" thoughts are not the best way to approach this problem. However, as a foreigner, that is what I see.

    But more important, the businesses must change their employment policies to release retiring employees who are a burden to the company, andactively "hire" older aged qualified persons who can benefit both the young and old employees with "fresh" if not "better" work habits and innovative ideas based on "experience". Nothing to do with "fairness" or "tradition", it has to do with efficiency, effectiveness and overall profitability.

    So much "talent", "knowledge" and "experience based wisdom" is being wasted only because companies are looking at the immediate bottom line and desire to have younger people at "low" wages and get "overtime" from them. Most open position now "require" age 45 or younger, and expect high academic degrees besides experience in the field.

    Posted in: Women could save Japan's economy: IMF's Lagarde

  • -2

    kazetsukai

    The article is based upon using kites to protest having Ospreys based in Okinawa. The primary issue behind that was the "safety" factor.

    The issues behind that are 1) dislike of Japan bases used by the USA forces in Okinawa 2) building of such bases in so called "undesirable" areas on Okinawa 3) the negative economic impact on certain areas of Okinawa < because it impacts one area positively and other areas negatively> 4) the negative impact of sound and other inconveniences to Okinawan people 5) the "feeling" that Okinawa was singled out and abandoned by Japan at the end of the war and again after the war by allowing "unwanted" USA military forces on Okinawa soil. Some of the issues are directed at getting back at the Japanese government for what Okinawans feel are mishandling it all without the Okinawan people's input. Some of the issues are in en effort to direct more economic and other support from Japan and the USA for it all.

    Regardless... the issue here is the kites. It is dangerous just the same for those flying them and for the Ospreys.

    All it will take is one major accident and injury or death to make this entire effort a meaningless one. It can be an actual accident or an intentional one by some "deranged" person. So nothing justifies such action.

    Posted in: Okinawans use kites to protest against Osprey aircraft

  • 1

    kazetsukai

    The direction comes from IMF that basically wants money to give to other so called developing and financially troubled nations. To do that the wealthier nations must be financially sound. So they want the wealthier nations to tighten their belts and at the same time "stabilize" the financial markets for the benefit of the rest of the world that depends on it. The reasoning is that if the rest of the world is stable, it will help Japan's economy become stable and possibly improve, based upon IMF's standards and needs, not necessarily Japan's needs.

    The problem is that till today the Japanese still believe and respect what an international organization say rather than determine its own standards and evaluate accordingly. Japan must first have its own standard to "compare" with IMF.

    Posted in: IMF warns over public debt amid slowing growth

  • 1

    kazetsukai

    Any government "involvement" in the arts basically gives "control" of subjects, contents and rights over to such government entity that "funds" or "regulates" it. That in itself deters or even prevents "creativity". What is needed are better non-government "sponsors" that the artist can choose according to his/her philosophy, objectives and needs.

    Article Unavailable

  • 3

    kazetsukai

    Interesting.... In the lodging industry, "consumables" such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc. which once used are not reusable are considered included as part of the guests' fees or rent for the day/night and paid for. All other items that can be re-used and fixed to the room are considered "hotel property."

    Problem is that the public is misinformed about such things. For some, it is a cultural problem.

    Funny things is more things disappear from hotels due to employee theft of such items. Sad to say, that also is a cultural problem where certain national or cultural groups indicate a much higher rate of theft.

    Posted in: Couple arrested for stealing hotel amenities

  • -1

    kazetsukai

    Poisoning of food or water is similar to "weapons of mass destruction" and is within the "terrorism" definition. "Indiscriminate" killing is bad enough. Such methods in the name of what?

    In our current and past history it already exist in the form of the use of "drugs".

    As this article is from Kuchikomi, it is needs more research and clarification. However, given the situation and circumstances surrounding the open and apparent promoted Chinese violence against Japan, "caution" is obviously needed. Economic and Military threat are only what is obvious on the surface. There are many more subversive methods that the Chinese people are "known" to use such as internet based terrorism. Since Japan is one of the most automated and computer reliant nation, it is much more open to such attacks.

    Posted in: 'Food terrorism' a new concern in China-Japan rift

  • -2

    kazetsukai

    Poles are poles and their reliability is questionable at best for this election. Statistics depend a lot on "how" such data was gotten and "how" the questions were stated and asked and "how" the acquired data is interpreted. It appears that this election especially is influenced by "who" is taking the data.

    Regardless, it is important that we know, understand and appreciate the core of the debate in order to have a meaningful discussion. The issues for the debate were based on "economics".

    Here, it is important that we have the "correct" perspective on economics. I suggest everyone read "THE PRICE OF CIVILIZATION" by Jeffrey Sachs. It will enlighten you as to whom you may want to "back up" and "support" for this election when you consider economics and your own financial stability within the USA and the rest of the world, including here in Japan.

    Posted in: Romney turns in strong debate performance

  • 3

    kazetsukai

    The validity and applicability of All statistics issued by the US government or any government depends on the "criteria," "definition," and "scope" of the data used. Already the statistics released is under "question" because the data used included "household" related jobs that are usually not included in such statistics. The problem has been that the administration under Mr. Obama has been using "different" "criteria" each time they issued the figures. So all such statistics released, especially by the US under Mr. Obama must be "scrutinized" and "interpreted" in the correct perspective.

    As the previous writer expressed, the TOTAL unemployment numbers are much greater and the new jobs obtained are far less than what the report indicates, when the "prior" statistic criteria is used.

    The problem is much of the positions added were from US government "created" jobs.

    Posted in: Obama touts jobs report as he seeks to lift campaign

  • -1

    kazetsukai

    Nice heated and somewhat emotional discussion here with only a few of you with the facts and the in-depth knowledge of politics, economics, finance, the social security system, the mortgage financing system, etc. to give real "perspective" to the "substance" of the debate which is the actual (not advertised, propagandized, or assumed) STATE of USA and the WORLD, economically, politically, etc. I had hoped that after reading through all of your contributions, more of you would have been more "serious" about the election of a President of a country that affect the "entire" WORLD.

    The next President can and will affect what will happen the Chinese threat, Taiwan, S. Korean and our host country Japan. It is sad that very few of you have done your homework to be able to participate in a meaningful way.

    The debate was about USA's economy and government policies that affect the economy and lives of not only the people in the USA, but every other country in the world. The next debate will cover other areas of concern.

    What are your view on that?

    Posted in: Romney turns in strong debate performance

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