Reader’s Question:
I’m worried about Prince Hisahito’s marriage. I think it might be difficult for him to marry early due to his appearance. I’m also concerned that if the Emperor and the heads of the Imperial Family are only male-line descendants, the Imperial Family may not be able to continue. Why is there no concrete movement, despite many people in the
country supporting female-line succession?
Prince Hisahito’s Marriage Issue and the Future of the Imperial Family
Recently, discussions about Prince Hisahito’s marriage have become quite active. The questions raised by readers reflect concerns about his appearance and male-line succession. When pondering this issue, I find myself reflecting on my own university life. I work part-time at a judicial scrivener’s office, and studying law makes me realize how significant these social issues are. One reason for the slow progress regarding Prince Hisahito’s marriage might indeed be related to his appearance and public perception. However, what is more important is whether he possesses the qualities necessary to be Emperor. There are moments when I wonder if he lacks those qualities, as many people seem to feel. When I discussed this topic with friends, I recalled that everyone shared the same opinion.
The Debate on Male and Female Lineage
While there are those who cling to male-line succession, there are also many voices supporting female-line succession. Especially when considering Aiko-san’s future, there are quite a few who wish for her to become Emperor. Our generation has grown up in a society where gender equality is taken for granted, leading many to question these outdated notions. I empathize with the sentiment that the continuation of the Imperial Family is at risk amid declining birth rates. One day during lunch break, while enjoying snacks at a café with friends, we had this discussion. He said, “If Prince Hisahito is to be Emperor, I would prefer Aiko-san,” which made everyone burst into laughter. It’s clear that she has inherited excellent DNA from Masako-san. At that moment, I suggested, “But maybe Prince Hisahito has some special charm,” and there was a brief silence. This is the essence of a lively debate.
The Influence of Public Opinion and Media
I feel that the influence of media is significant regarding public opinion. The information we usually see is mostly curated, and it’s common for opinions to change under its influence. When I discussed this with a friend, he remarked, “It’s pathetic to be swayed by the media.” Indeed, while we often criticize the mainstream media, the reality is that we can be influenced by information. Considering this, Prince Hisahito’s marriage issue is not merely a personal matter; it is a significant theme that affects the entire Imperial Family and, ultimately, Japan’s future. We must keep a close eye on future developments.
Conclusion
There are various opinions regarding Prince Hisahito’s marriage and the future of the Imperial Family, but I believe that the views of each individual citizen are important. As someone studying law, I want to think seriously about this issue. What do you think? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
