Why Germany should learn from Japan's consideration and discipline!

Why Germany should learn from Japan's consideration and discipline!

On May 16, 2025, an author reflects on her experiences in Japan and the main differences from German culture. The impressions she gathered during a trip through the cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Okinawa show how much consideration and discipline characterizes coexistence in Japan. While selfishness and competitiveness often prevail in Germany, harmony is valued as a central value in Japan. That reports Focus.

A striking example of this is the atmosphere in a beach hotel, where guests behave in a relaxed manner and do not reserve loungers. There is absolute silence in the subway in Tokyo; Cell phones and loud conversations are taboo. Such behavior shows that politeness and consideration are deeply rooted in everyday Japanese life. The author, however, regrets the dwindling respect and discipline in Germany, which are necessary for harmonious coexistence.

Culture of consideration

In Japan, individual ego is often put aside in favor of the community. This is reflected in the social norms that promote a harmonious society. Virtues such as consideration, honesty, trust, modesty and restraint are elementary in Japanese culture. These principles form the basis of the Japanese harmonious society, in which conflict and direct criticism are avoided in order to avoid adversity Nippon info determines.

An example of the collective spirit is the practice of employees coming to the office early and parking their cars further away to give others the better parking space. Such gestures of consideration not only ensure personal comfort but also strengthen the community. In contrast, in Germany the principle of “first come, first served” often prevails, which further intensifies the competitive situation in everyday life.

A rethink is required

The author brings up that Generation Z in Japan is beginning to question traditional values ​​of collective consideration and demand more self-care. This could herald a change in Japanese society, which has long been characterized by the idea of ​​collectivism. The idea that deviations from social norms can lead to exclusion is increasingly being questioned by younger people.

Given these observations, the author suggests that Germany could learn from Japan's attitude towards discipline and consideration. A paradigm shift towards more cooperation and responsibility would be necessary in order to improve social interaction and overcome the egoism that currently characterizes the social climate.

Overall, the comparison between cultures shows how important consideration and order are for harmonious coexistence and how necessary a reassessment of values ​​is in German society.