An Atmosphere of Anxiety Hangs over Contemporary Japanese Society

As we finally reach the exit of the prolonged "bubble deflation" (c.1990-2005), Japanese youth seem to be uncertain about their future career directions, as vividly symbolized by the large number of so-called "freeters," meaning young men and women aged under 35 who are neither students nor full-time, regular employees. In order to dispel this atmosphere of anxiety, the author suggests several schemes including the following: (1) The modularization of white-collar jobs into interchangeable, independent components, each of which can be grasped through occupational training courses and be combined flexibly for the execution of professional requirements; (2) The institution of long-term business internships, extending for at least six to twelve months, where trainees can gain a grasp of the essential ingredients of occupational careers; and (3) A bold overhaul of higher-education curricula with a focal point on interdisciplinary training including a renewed concept of "general education," which encourages mental and spiritual sensitiveness as well as creative thinking by students