The Japanese government is reportedly taking steps to limit the use of unconventional names, often referred to as “shiny” names. These names, sometimes inspired by pop culture figures like “Pikachu” or brands such as “Nike,” have sparked a debate over cultural norms and personal identity.
Darwin H. Tsen, an Assistant Teaching Professor at the College of Arts and Science and an expert in Japanese culture, offers insight into this development. He suggests that the decision reflects a broader cultural pattern in Japan where private indulgences are tolerated until traditional values reassert themselves through regulation.
“Japanese society often allows for private indulgences, whether in art, food or fashion, until tradition reasserts itself through regulation,” Tsen states. He further explains that names are not merely personal choices but are part of what Michel Foucault termed ‘biopower,’ tools used by the state to track and manage its population.
Tsen finds the crackdown unsurprising yet disappointing. He believes there could have been a compromise approach: “There could have been a middle ground,” he says. “A system that evaluates names individually, rather than banning creativity outright.”
For further information or to arrange an interview with Tsen, Syracuse University’s media relations team can be contacted.
