Japanese podcast | EP-103 Is it right to get angry at innocent words? | 悪気のない言葉に怒ってもいい？

Summary

In this episode of the Kotsu Kotsu Nihongo podcast, Mizuki shares her thoughts on microaggressions, particularly those experienced by people of mixed heritage or foreigners in Japan. Through personal examples, she explores how well-meaning comments can unintentionally hurt others, leading to feelings of being underestimated or stereotyped. Mizuki discusses the delicate balance between intent and impact, reflecting on a debate she had with her husband about whether one should get angry when these comments occur. The episode highlights the challenges of navigating language, identity, and social sensitivity, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own responses to such situations.

Takeaways

• 😀 The podcast is designed to help people learn Japanese through natural and simple language on various topics.
• 😀 The host, Mizuki, also offers online Japanese lessons, with discounts based on lesson time and frequency, and the scripts for the podcast are available on the website.
• 😀 The podcast features exclusive content for Patreon members, including special podcasts and monthly writing and speaking challenges.
• 😀 The episode discusses a topic Mizuki recently debated with her husband: whether it's acceptable to get angry when someone unintentionally hurts or offends you.
• 😀 The topic focuses on microaggressions, where people make comments without bad intentions, but their words can unintentionally hurt others.
• 😀 Examples of microaggressions include praising someone's Japanese skills or using chopsticks, or making assumptions about mixed-race individuals based on their appearance.
• 😀 The script highlights the difference between an unintentional microaggression and an overtly offensive comment, emphasizing that the former isn't necessarily meant to insult or belittle.
• 😀 The debate between Mizuki and her husband centers around whether it is fair to get angry when someone doesn't realize their words can be offensive.
• 😀 Mizuki believes that even without malicious intent, causing someone emotional harm still holds responsibility, while her husband argues that ignorance of the harm means there's no fault.
• 😀 The script reflects on the importance of understanding different perspectives and the complexity of dealing with microaggressions, suggesting that a balance between awareness and empathy is key.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the podcast episode?

The main topic of the episode is about microaggressions—unintentional comments or actions that may hurt others, and the debate about whether it is fair for someone to get angry or upset in response to these comments.

What are some examples of microaggressions mentioned in the episode?

Examples include praising someone's Japanese skills with comments like 'You're so good at Japanese!' or 'You can use chopsticks so well!' and making assumptions about mixed-race people, like 'You must be tall because you're half-Japanese' or 'You're good at sports because you have American blood.'

What does Mizuki's husband believe about how to respond to microaggressions?

Mizuki's husband believes that if a person makes a comment without malice, the recipient should not get angry. He thinks that since the person didn't intend to hurt anyone, it's not fair for the recipient to react with anger.

What is Mizuki's perspective on responding to microaggressions?

Mizuki believes that even if a comment is made without malice, the fact that it hurt someone is important. She thinks that the person making the comment should still take responsibility for the harm caused, even if they didn't intend to upset anyone.

What does the term 'microaggression' mean?

Microaggression refers to subtle, often unintentional comments or actions that can make someone feel uncomfortable, disrespected, or hurt. These actions are often linked to societal biases or prejudices.

Why does Mizuki believe 'ignorance' can be considered a form of 'sin' in some cases?

Mizuki agrees with the idea that 'ignorance is a sin' because, although she doesn't intentionally hurt others, not knowing the impact of certain words or actions can still lead to harm. She feels it is important to be aware of how our words and actions affect others.

How does Mizuki compare her response to her husband's response to negative comments?

Mizuki is more likely to immediately feel upset or frustrated when receiving a negative comment, while her husband remains calm, tries to understand the other person's situation, and doesn't get angry unless there is clear malice.

What does Mizuki think about the possibility of avoiding microaggressions altogether?

Mizuki acknowledges that it is nearly impossible to avoid causing hurt to others entirely because everyone has different perspectives and feelings. However, she believes that being aware and trying not to make assumptions can help reduce microaggressions.

What is the significance of the phrase 'knowing is more important than being right' in this episode?

Mizuki emphasizes the importance of understanding different viewpoints and being open to learning from others rather than insisting on being right. She believes that actively seeking to understand others can prevent unintentional harm.

How does Mizuki relate to the concept of 'microaggressions' in her own life?

Mizuki shares that she, too, has unknowingly said things that have hurt others in the past. She reflects on how, although she had no bad intentions, her words sometimes led to misunderstanding or harm. This is why she emphasizes the importance of being aware of the impact of one's words.