The Causes and Structure of the "Scumming" in Japanese Society - 12/28/2025

Abstract

In modern Japanese society, "scumming" refers to the phenomenon in which individual behavior and values ​​gradually deviate from the harmony and ethics of society as a whole and become dominated by cold, mechanical value standards. This phenomenon involves factors such as "slaves to the law," "profit-and-loss machines," and "linguistic automatons," resulting in the weakening of society's fundamental values. This article explores how these problems develop and the structural factors behind them.

Keywords

Slaves to the law, profit-and-loss machines, linguistic automatons, social structure

Introduction

In modern society, values ​​and behavioral patterns considered "normal" in daily life are becoming increasingly mechanical, with efficiency and results often taking precedence over emotion and ethics. Not just in Japan, but society as a whole is becoming somewhat inorganic, with people's thoughts and actions conforming to societal expectations. This is the essence of the phenomenon some refer to as "scumming."

This phenomenon is by no means due to a single reason. Rather, the idea that "obeying the law is justice," the selfish calculation of profit and loss as the standard of all behavior, and superficial communication all interact with one another in society.

Slavery of the Law

Let's start by considering the term "slavery of the law." Obeying laws and rules is essential for society to function. However, in modern society, there is a growing trend toward the idea that "right law = right behavior," leading people to believe that obeying the law is unconditionally just. However, in reality, the law itself is often designed to favor those in power, narrowing individual freedom and choice and making it easy for people to unconsciously fall into a state where "obeying the law is the only option." This leads to a state of "slavery of the law," where people are bound by the framework established by the law and find it difficult to step outside of it, rather than simply following the law.

Profit and Loss Machine

Next, let's consider the concept of the "profit and loss machine" in economic and social activities. In our daily lives, we constantly consider costs and returns and try to choose the most profitable path. While this may seem efficient at first glance, taking this approach too far can lead to a tendency to ignore moral and ethical considerations. For example, in human relationships, an attitude of "do what's beneficial and avoid what's harmful" is emphasized, ultimately weakening social values ​​like cooperation and empathy. In other words, we prioritize "what's beneficial" and neglect the impact on the other person's position and society as a whole.

Linguistic Automaton

Finally, there's the phenomenon of "linguistic automaton." In modern society, communication tends to become formulaic and mechanical. For example, in corporate conversations and political debates, there's a tendency to use formulaic language to avoid causing trouble for both parties. When this type of language usage becomes widespread, the original meaning and intent of words are lost, and interactions become superficial. Instead of conveying their emotions or true feelings, people are expected to simply use set phrases to indicate appropriate responses. This phenomenon is known as "linguistic automaton." As a result of society as a whole unconsciously relying too heavily on formality, the quality of dialogue declines, leading to misunderstandings and distrust.

Main Discussion

Behavior as a Slave of the Law

In a society where obedience to the law is considered "just," it becomes difficult for individuals to act freely according to their own will. Even when the law is abused, simply continuing to abide by it is considered "right," making it difficult to rebel or question it. If this situation continues, the entire society will uncritically follow the rules, and as a result, injustice and inequality will be overlooked.

Behavior as a Profit-and-Loss Machine

When prioritizing selfish behavior becomes the norm, the pursuit of individual gain can have a negative impact on society as a whole. For example, even in situations that require cooperation, selfish judgment takes priority, ultimately sacrificing the "interest of the group as a whole." Ultimately, short-term gains and losses undermine the long-term health of society, leading to a loss of mutual understanding and trust.

Automated Language

The mechanical use of language reduces true communication. People use "set words" and "official phrases" to superficially appear to solve problems, but the underlying emotion and intention are lacking, preventing deep understanding and empathy. As a result, society becomes more formal and cold, and the quality of dialogue continues to decline.

Conclusion

The "scum-ification" of modern Japanese society is driven by the interplay of three factors: the unconditional recognition of lawfulness, the prioritization of profit and loss calculations, and the mechanical nature of communication. In such a society, individual freedom, emotions, and ethics tend to be ignored, weakening the bonds of trust and cooperation throughout society.

To improve this situation, we need to value empathy, cooperation, and ethical judgment, rather than simply emphasizing efficiency and following the rules. Furthermore, using language as a means of sincere communication, rather than simply as a formality, is essential to restoring the health of society as a whole.