Current location:world >>
VOX POPULI: Unlike Taylor Swift, few stars in Japan speak out about politics
world96People have gathered around
IntroductionWhen I visited the United States on business years ago, I turned the TV on in my hotel room to find ...
When I visited the United States on business years ago, I turned the TV on in my hotel room to find popular actor George Clooney on the screen.
I vividly remember him saying to the effect, “According to the education we’ve received, criticizing the government is something like a duty of American citizens.”
It was a talk show in which celebrities answered questions from viewers.
Regarding film stars engaging in political activism, Clooney noted with complete equanimity, “Why not?”
His reaction made me feel the robustness of democracy in America.
But making political statements is obviously never a simple matter for anyone who is famous.
In fact, pop singer Taylor Swift, whose recent comments about this year’s presidential election have attracted considerable attention, has admitted in her own documentary film and elsewhere that she had agonized over whether to speak out or not.
Ever since she debuted at age 16, Swift said, she was constantly warned about “talking politics and inconveniencing other people.”
But six years ago, she’d finally had enough and publicly criticized a Republican presidential candidate.
This exposed her to ruthless online slander and bashing, but it also freed her, she recalled, as if a muzzle had come off.
It is pointed out that when an influential superstar publicly voices support for a specific politician, this creates a tricky--or even dangerous--situation.
Big-name celebrities are invariably super rich and some people worry that their political endorsements will benefit only the wealthy.
But surely that shouldn’t mean all A-listers must remain silent.
In contrast, how few prominent stars there are in Japan who openly discuss politics.
Swift said to the effect that she will continue to act, having realized it is her responsibility to take advantage of her power of influence and challenge disgustingly cheap policy pledges that are nothing but lip service.
I am bedazzled by her words.
--The Asahi Shimbun, Feb. 19
* *
*Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.
Tags:
Reprint:Friends are welcome to share on the Internet, but please indicate the source of the article when reprinting it.“Global Gazetteer news portal”。http://samoa.carpetcleaningepping.com/news-20e799976.html
Related articles
Devout Christian doctor, 68, who punched dementia
worldAn 'arrogant' doctor who punched a vulnerable patient for making a racist comment and spitting at hi ...
【world】
Read moreYemen's Houthis claim targeting US, Israeli ships
worldYemen's Houthi group on Wednesday claimed responsibility for launching three attacks, targeting ...
【world】
Read moreUS move of tariff hikes sets 'bad example' for free trade
worldAn aerial drone photo taken on July 11, 2023 shows new energy vehicles for export at a terminal of T ...
【world】
Read more
Popular articles
- What's next for Iran after death of its president in crash?
- Shanghai Disney Resort to open world's first Zootopia
- Village tourism in Xizang ushers in spring amid peach blossom viewing
- Expert calls for enhancing multilateral cooperation in S&T, green development
- I was 'brokefished' by my friend for £400
- Volkswagen R&D center in Anhui sees promising developments
Latest articles
The Latest
SpaceX Dragon cargo spacecraft departs ISS for Earth
Shanghai Olympic Qualifier Series to bring new experience for fans
Grand Canal exhibition in China showcases archaeological findings
Verona confirms Serie A status for another year after beating Salernitana
SpaceX Dragon cargo spacecraft departs ISS for Earth
LINKS
- Charlotte Crosby rocks a trendy white bikini while embarking on snorkelling excursion in Oz
- Terrifying moment truck goes off
- Police break up pro
- The FAA investigates after Boeing says workers in South Carolina falsified 787 inspection records
- Christina Hendricks recreates her wedding for her Alzheimer's
- The Latest
- Formula 1 tycoon's ex
- Zendaya's Met Gala style: Her biggest and boldest fashion statements so far
- China's Xi visits Pyrenees mountains, in a personal gesture by France's Macron
- Dunkin' Donuts employee reveals the biggest pet peeves she has against drive