As I continue my extended stay in Japan, I’m struck anew by the contradictions that run through Japan society. Though I’m a big fan of Japan’s group-identity orientation that plays such an important role in its low crime rates, and remain impressed by the Japanese adherence to teamwork, company loyalty, and just plain good manners on a society-wide basis, I’m keenly aware that these wholesome tendencies underwrite a tedious “groupthink” and a near-total surrender of democratic principles.