Question from a reader:
What do you think about Tōru Hashimoto’s claim that “Masahiro Nakai’s actions are not sexual violence”? While I can understand his legal perspective that “not having consent alone does not constitute a crime” and “the social backlash is too severe,” it seems to overlook the voices of actual victims and the circumstances on the ground. Isn’t it
contradictory to assert that “it’s not sexual violence” while claiming that the events in a closed room are outside the scope of investigation? I believe it is a serious issue that if a victim feels “uncomfortable,” without evidence, what they experienced can be dismissed entirely. At times, Hashimoto’s logic appears to serve as an excuse to protect the perpetrator. How do you perceive his claims? Should we regard them as calm opinions, or do they carry an underlying intention? Please let me know.
My Thoughts on Tōru Hashimoto’s Claims
Recently, Tōru Hashimoto’s assertion that “Masahiro Nakai’s actions are not sexual violence” has been a hot topic. I’ve also reflected on this issue and felt a bit uneasy about his perspective. While it’s understandable for a lawyer to think in legal terms, I wonder about the implications of ignoring the voices and emotions of actual victims.
The Truth in a Closed Room
To assert “it’s not sexual violence” without knowing what happened in a closed room feels somewhat contradictory. For example, even in the comedies we watch, various human relationships and emotions are hidden behind the laughs. In comedy, it’s crucial to consider how the other person feels. Similarly, I believe it’s important to respect the feelings of those who feel “uncomfortable” in real-life situations.
The Weight of Social Backlash
I do agree with the notion that social backlash can be overly harsh. It feels unfair for celebrities to be attacked by unrelated individuals. I, too, have had experiences where a joke made with friends was misunderstood in unexpected ways, and that feeling was truly painful. That’s why I think it’s essential to consider the weight of what public figures say in public forums.
Diversity of Opinions and Understanding
Listening to Hashimoto, there are parts that seem like excuses to protect the perpetrator, but I believe he has his own perspective and position. The law can sometimes feel cold, but what we should cherish are human emotions and experiences. Therefore, I feel we need to look at issues from a broader perspective, rather than just through the lens of legal frameworks. I have people around me with various opinions, and sometimes I think, “Isn’t that a bit biased?” I believe that communication can deepen understanding, so I hope everyone can hold their opinions while also respecting the perspectives of others. What do you think about this issue? If you have any experiences or opinions, please feel free to share them in the comments!
