mitennis28

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Poverty Issues in Japan and the United States

The two videos adress the topic of poverty in America. "Why The U.S. Can’t End Poverty" discusses the systemic reasons for the inability to eradicate poverty, including economic inequality, inadequate social safety nets, and political influences, arguing that simple financial aid is insufficient. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive policy changes and a reevaluation of societal values. "Wealth Inequality in America" visually depicts how a small wealthy elite controls a significant portion of the nation’s wealth, leaving the majority in poverty. I'm Japanese, so I wasn't familiar with the issue of poverty in America, but these two videos helped me understand and difference between the rich and the poor. This is an opportunity to think about the similarities and differences between Japan and the US regarding the issue of poverty.

Both Japan and the United States face significant poverty challenges, particularly regarding relative poverty rates. Approximately 15% of children in Japan and over 20% in the U.S. experience relative poverty, affecting their education and quality of life. Non-regular employment also contributes to these issues, with low wages and inadequate social security being common in both countries. However, there are notable differences. Japan has a more comprehensive social security system, while the U.S. relies heavily on private health insurance, leading to inequalities in access. Stigma surrounding welfare is stronger in Japan, making individuals hesitant to seek assistance, whereas in the U.S., the diversity of recipients lowers barriers to support. Regional disparities further complicate the issue; Japan faces urban-rural economic gaps, while the U.S. has significant state-by-state variations in poverty. Finally, Japan typically employs government-led initiatives to address these issues, whereas the U.S. emphasizes community and private organization efforts.

In Japan, strengthening the social security system is crucial, with a focus on reforming welfare and health insurance, particularly to support non-regular workers. Expanding scholarships and learning support to ensure equal educational opportunities is also essential. In contrast, the United States, urgent reform of the healthcare system is needed to ensure all citizens have access to insurance, with an emphasis on expanding public healthcare options. Additionally, increased investment in education and stronger collaboration with community organizations are important. Both countries adopt different approaches, but effective measures are essential for improving poverty issues.

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They're Made of Meat

Humans understand that their bodies are made up of cells, tissues, and organs. Through education and medical knowledge, people learn about the roles of various components, such as muscles, bones, and internal organs. In my case, I had the opportunity to learn about the human body during high school classes, where I studied with the help of dialogues led by teachers and reference books like textbooks and specialized literature. I believe that students in Japan also have opportunities to learn about the human body in school.

Additionally, many people think about how their bodies function for the sake of their health, considering the impact of nutrition and exercise. For instance, they understand the importance of proteins and vitamins, often choosing meals based on this knowledge. With the rising interest in fitness and beauty, awareness of the body's composition and functions has increased.

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Being a Good Citizen

When I was in elementary school, from around the third grade we had a class which we thought about morality, various issues and topics in the world. The student didn't just listen to the teacher, but also thought about problems and shared their opinions with each other while playing games and other activities. I think it's important to think about all the things that happen in everyday life and in the world from a young age. It allows them to become interested in a wide range of things, teaches them how to cooperate with others and understand other people's thoughts, gives them an opportunity to think about their future, and what it means to be a good citizen.

[mitennis28]

Pizza Boxes

During class discussions, I learned that each student is from a different country and has their own culture and background.

My ancestor was Nagamasa Kuroda, a samurai who lived as a warlord during the Sengoku period in Japan in the 1500s. Even today, in order to pass on this tradition to the next generation, our family and the town hold events. The first three photos are from the event.

Japanese warriors and samurai are famous all over the world. When I went to the MET in New York for orientation the other day, I saw Japanese samurai and armor on display, felt a strong sense of familiarity and was proud to be Japanese. Armor was once tools used in warfare, and are now actually unnecessary. That can be thrown away. However, that is used in Japanese art museums and festivals, and even abroad, such as at the MET, to promote international exchange and promote understanding of Japanese culture.

Just like Pizza Boxes, armor are something that shouldn't really be noticed, but it has many advantages and ingenuity.