Question from the readers:
If Masahiro Nakai wants to claim “it’s not sexual violence,” shouldn’t he say everything? It feels like Tohru Hashimoto’s advice is missing the point. Recently, I heard that Nakai seems to want to say that “the report from the third-party committee is one-sided” and sought advice from Hashimoto. Hashimoto mentioned, “If you hear Nakai’s story, some people
might think, ‘Wait, is this sexual violence?'” To be honest, I think that’s unfair. Nakai chose silence from the beginning and did not explain anything himself. Now, when he says, “Actually, this is how it was,” it sounds like he’s playing a game of late disclosure. Hashimoto is saying that “the impression of the term sexual violence is too negative,” but ultimately, he is not addressing the facts of what Nakai actually did. By shifting the discussion to impressions and saying, “This isn’t something that deserves social sanctions,” isn’t he merely downplaying the victim’s experience based on his own values? The victim has testified that it was “against her will,” and Fuji TV entrusted the investigation to a third-party committee. If Nakai starts saying, “They didn’t listen to me; you should also hear my side,” then I believe he must clearly state what happened in his own words. However, it seems he’s trying to protect himself with “impressions” and “atmosphere” instead. In the end, if he has something to say, he should have presented it straightforwardly from the beginning. The way he is now, giving glimpses through Hashimoto, might actually lead to a loss of trust. If he truly wants to say “it’s not sexual violence,” he should discuss the content of the actions.
Nakai Masahiro: Thoughts as a Friend
Recently, the situation with Nakai Masahiro has become a topic of discussion. I understand that many people feel he should explain his actions more specifically if he wants to assert that “it’s not sexual violence.” Honestly, I can relate to his feelings, but at the same time, I wonder, “Is he really conveying what he wants to say?” For example, I once had a minor misunderstanding with a friend and initially chose silence. Later, I realized that my frustration over trivial matters caused our relationship to become awkward because I didn’t explain myself. That experience made me realize the importance of expressing my thoughts.
The Courage to Speak the Truth
Nakai might be considering how his choice of silence could affect his future trustworthiness. Hashimoto’s advice seems to imply manipulation of impressions, which does feel like a shift in the discussion. However, I believe what’s most important is for Nakai to articulate in his own words what he did and how he felt. There are times when expressing our opinions and feelings can be intimidating. But when we hide our thoughts, it often leads to misunderstandings with others. That’s why I hope Nakai can be a bit more specific about his position and opinions.
What Do You Think?
What are your thoughts on this topic? If you were in Nakai’s position, what would you do? How would you convey your opinions? Please share your thoughts in the comments. I would love to hear your perspectives, and I might find many commonalities with you. Talking about such topics with friends can be quite enjoyable!
