I was elected as the 2010 ACCJ Person of the Year in the end of 2010, and gave an acceptance speech this February at The Tokyo American Club luncheon. The text of the speech is uploaded on my web site for your reference.
Recently, someone told me that Mr. Richard Smart posted an article about me, which, I think, was based on my speech at the luncheon, on the Tokyo Weekender titled “Kiyoshi Kurokawa, The Maverick”
Well, it is true that I speak my mind outspokenly although it may irritate some people, so it is quite natural for Mr. Smart to think that way. However, I have never doubted that I might be wrong. My point is that the Japanese society is a too insular minded, closed “Vertical Society.”
I know that many people will have hard feelings when truths are spoken and I don’t think we can do much about it. However, it is very important that we speak what we truly feel.
You all know how the Japanese media coverage took the side of the government, trying to make things look better in their news coverage after the events of 3.11. I think the credibility of Japanese journalism has fallen down sharply by their behavior of currying favor with power. And now it is clear to the whole world that this attitude of flattering to power is not limited to the Japanese government, Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA), or Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO).
Where is Japan headed to? I am a bit worried.