Question from a reader:
Are there people who dislike that manga work? I personally do not like that work, and I feel that the author’s impression is not very good. If I were to say that on a question-and-answer site, is there a possibility that I could be subjected to a disclosure request and have to pay money?

On Manga Works
and Personal Impressions: A Legal Perspective

I will begin my examination in response to the reader’s question. This time, I would like to consider whether there are people who feel “dislike” towards a specific manga work, and the legal risks associated with publicly expressing that sentiment.

Likes, Dislikes, and Their Expression

First of all, preferences and impressions of a work are based on individual experiences and values. Personally, I have some manga works that I particularly like and others that I cannot relate to at all. For example, I often find myself tilting my head in confusion at the plot developments of a certain popular work, wondering, “Why is this happening?” Such feelings can also have a certain impact on creators, and fan reactions can be one factor that nurtures a work. Nevertheless, caution is necessary when expressing opinions online. In particular, expressing negative feelings such as “dislike” may carry legal risks. Just how far can one go in expressing such sentiments? Let’s take a closer look.

The Risk of Defamation

Now, it is your freedom to feel dislike towards that work or its author. However, if you convey that feeling specifically to others, issues of defamation may arise. Defamation refers to statements or actions that lower another person’s social evaluation. Specifically, this applies to cases where one states something that is factually incorrect or makes an unjust evaluation, even if the statement is true. For instance, if you criticize specifically by saying, “The author of this manga has poor quality work,” and that content is not factual or unjust, it could be considered defamation. On the other hand, stating “I do not like this work” as your personal opinion falls within the permissible range.

The Possibility of Disclosure Requests

It is indeed possible for specific individuals or organizations to file disclosure requests based on defamation regarding online posts. A disclosure request is a legal procedure to identify the information of the user who made the post, and in some cases, monetary damages may be sought. However, disclosure requests are not always easily granted. In many cases, courts carefully examine whether the post constitutes defamation. As long as the content you post is a “personal opinion” and does not specifically attack others, it is unlikely to be recognized as defamation. A specific example is when a well-known author was criticized online, and that statement was accepted as part of social criticism. This was a result of recognizing “freedom of expression.”

Points to Consider When Expressing Opinions

Still, it is important to be careful about the words you use. When expressing your opinion, it is advisable to keep the following points in mind: 1. State it as a personal experience: Center your expression around your own impressions, using phrases like “For me, it was like this,” making it easier to be received as a subjective opinion. 2. Avoid specific criticisms: Even if specific criticism of elements of the work is necessary, it might be better to soften the tone and express it as “It didn’t resonate with me.” 3. Strive for calm expression: Convey your opinion calmly without becoming emotional. Using aggressive language driven by momentary feelings can lead to trouble later on.

Conclusion and Personal Views

Ultimately, expressing opinions about manga works is free, and everyone has the right to their own opinions. However, it is important to remember that this freedom has certain limits, and there are risks of defamation. Especially since statements made online can reach many people, one should be aware that words once expressed cannot be easily retracted. Personally, while I passionately discuss works I like, I try to choose my words carefully regarding works I dislike. This is both a respect for the creators and fans, and a way to protect myself. After all, I feel it is important to find my own balance while weighing the freedom of expression against its risks. I hope this blog helps resolve your questions. Criticism of works can be harsh, but I believe it can lead to new creativity. I hope everyone will cherish their own opinions while also being open to the opinions of others.