It is known that Japan is home to a very prospering sexual industry, and that sex sells in different forms and shapes. Going hand-in-hand with the prosperity and development of this industry,...Show moreIt is known that Japan is home to a very prospering sexual industry, and that sex sells in different forms and shapes. Going hand-in-hand with the prosperity and development of this industry, however,are a number of collateral matters in the form of moral problems: sex-related crimes,issues and concerns. Although the existence of a thriving sex industry is not uncommon elsewhere, Japan’s case is quite different and unique. This difference lies in the overly sexual objectification of schoolgirls. It was reported that schoolgirls started to engage in compensated dating, or enjo-kousai(援助交際) the specific term in Japanese for this activity. At the time of discovery, this phenomenon took the Japanese society by surprise. Enjo-kousai was once ubiquitous and prevalent in the Japanese media and under the public eye. However, as suggested by newspaper headlines, in recent years the term has not been applied unless connected to organized crime or celebrities/politicians scandals. Still, many questions are left unanswered. Where and what is enjo-kousai in Japan today? Looking back and now, what were/are we talking about when we talk about compensated dating in Japan?Show less
In the recent decades Japan has experienced several social problems as the society is ajusting itself to the changing global climate. One of the main problems currently still persisting is the so...Show moreIn the recent decades Japan has experienced several social problems as the society is ajusting itself to the changing global climate. One of the main problems currently still persisting is the so-called hikikomori-state, in which young men and women seclude themselves in their homes and rooms, and refuse to interact with society. This thesis looks at this problem, which has been analysed on many fields through a new lens; how are these individuals and the problem as a whole portrayed through one of the most popular cultural export products of Japan; anime. This thesis will provide a comparison of scholarly research and an interpretation of two anime in particular: "No Game No Life" and "Welcome to the N.H.K.!"Show less
