Japanese Perspectives on Illiteracy with Kanji: A Global Comparison

Introduction

In the age of advanced technology and high literacy rates, issues related to the use of Kanji remain a significant topic in Japan. As Kanji characters are a crucial part of the Japanese writing system, proficiency in reading and writing them is often considered a mark of education and cultural literacy. Despite this, a significant portion of the Japanese population struggles to properly read or write Kanji, leading to interesting perspectives on the situation.

Difficulty in Learning Kanji

Learning Kanji is a formidable task even for many Japanese individuals. Traditionally, the process begins with learning Hiragana and Katakana, which are phonetic alphabets, before progressing to Kanji. Kanji learning can be overwhelming due to the thousands of characters in circulation. As such, many people, like the author's wife, might encounter specific Kanji characters they rarely if ever use.

The use of smartphones and other devices also plays a role in the evolution of written communication. Often, people use voice-to-text features or on-screen menus to select the appropriate Kanji character. This shift is not unique to Japan; in Europe and the USA, the decline of handwriting is also observed. However, this trend is distinct in Japan, where the deep connection to written characters remains strong.

Public Perception and Attitude

Despite the advancements in technology, public perception of individuals who struggle with Kanji remains mixed. There is a sense of shame associated with not being able to write Kanji correctly, especially in public settings. However, Japanese people, as highlighted by the author's teacher, are becoming more forgiving of this issue, considering the impact of modern technology on traditional writing practices.

According to the teacher, 'If they are young maybe they think quite simply that they cannot study effectively. But recently on account of the use of smart phones personal computers and so on the numbers of people who forget their kanji outright are swelling. In particular people often forget how to write kanji by hand.' This indicates a shift in attitude towards the ability to write Kanji.

Future Implications

The evolving landscape of writing in Japan raises questions about the future of the Kanji writing system. Will the widespread use of smartphones and computers solidify Kanji's reign, as it provides easier access and enhances the digital representation of written words? Or will it lead to a decline in basic Kanji literacy due to a shift towards lazier writing habits?

As with any technological transition, the answer is uncertain. The current situation suggests a blend of factors influencing the perpetuation or decline of Kanji literacy. For now, the Japanese remain largely unfazed by these changes, viewing them as part of a broader modernization process.

Conclusion

The question of how the Japanese view their fellow citizens who struggle with Kanji is multifaceted. It reflects not only linguistic challenges but also broader issues of education and cultural preservation. As technology continues to evolve, the role of Kanji in Japanese society is sure to undergo further changes.

For those interested in understanding the unique dynamics of Japanese language and culture, this issue remains a significant point of discussion. Whether Kanji remains a pillar of Japanese literacy or evolves into a less significant part of the writing system, the conversation around its use and importance will undoubtedly continue.