Ideas: Teaching Japan to Say No

In a provocative new book, maverick legislator Shintaro Ishihara tells his countrymen to be more assertive

By Shintaro Ishihara Seiichi Kanise Monday, Nov. 20, 1989

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Q. Are the Japanese unique?

A. The Americans are unique, and so are the Japanese. As for the question of whether the Japanese are a superior race or not, I think only our achievements can tell. The Japanese are excellent at connecting a new idea with merchandising. We may be unique in that respect.