Question from a Reader:
Is Nakai Masahiro hiring lawyers at a cost of millions or even tens of millions to ensure that everyone knows he hasn’t raised his hand or engaged in violent behavior? Or is he preparing to evade potential compensation claims? Also, did Johnny Kitagawa commit sexual abuse against hundreds of boys? I think everyone was unable to resist
because they feared being sidelined if they opposed him. Is Nakai Masahiro acting with an understanding of this situation?
Reflecting on the Issues Involving Nakai Masahiro and Johnny Kitagawa
Watching recent news, I can’t help but be concerned about the cases involving Nakai Masahiro and Johnny Kitagawa. In particular, I feel the discussions around the definitions of violence and sexual abuse are deepening. As someone studying psychology, I find myself particularly sensitive to these issues. Regarding Nakai’s assertion that he “did not raise his hand,” he and his representatives emphasize that there was no physical violence. However, while this may seem like a denial of violence at first glance, it appears to be a narrow interpretation of the definition of violence. According to international standards, intimidation through strong language and sexual acts within power dynamics are also considered forms of sexual violence.
Risks of Compensation and Restoration of Reputation
Nakai likely hired expensive lawyers not so much for the restoration of his reputation but to mitigate future civil litigation risks, aiming to reduce or deny compensation claims. It’s difficult to judge whether he truly believes there was “consent” or if this is a strategic denial, but that rebuttal should be viewed more as a legal strategy rather than an explanation for the public. In Johnny Kitagawa’s case, reports suggest that the abusive actions were not physical violence but rather psychological pressure utilizing his position. The fear of being sidelined prevented the boys from resisting. This represents a silent coercion through power, which overlaps with Nakai’s situation in many ways. The essence is not whether hands were raised, but whether sexual abuse occurred within a relationship where resistance was impossible.
Structural Issues in Society
Faced with such problems, I believe we need to ask more fundamental questions rather than simply labeling Nakai as bad or Kitagawa as abnormal. We should be questioning, “Where in our society do structures remain that inhibit resistance?” I might also find myself unconsciously caught up in similar structures in daily life. When thinking about it this way, it feels like a very personal issue. Recently, while chatting with friends at a café, we got into a discussion about how difficult power dynamics in human relationships can be. Even in small matters, power dynamics often influence outcomes. Therefore, how we assert our opinions or help someone else is a theme we must always consider.
I Want to Hear Everyone’s Experiences
Through this article, I hope everyone will share their thoughts and experiences. Since this is a relatable issue, I believe that thinking about it together will deepen our understanding. I would be delighted to hear how you feel and deal with issues of power dynamics and violence. I still have much to learn, and I look forward to hearing everyone’s opinions.
