{"id":1369,"date":"2025-09-15T08:23:46","date_gmt":"2025-09-14T23:23:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.japan-workers.com\/?p=1369"},"modified":"2025-09-15T08:23:46","modified_gmt":"2025-09-14T23:23:46","slug":"implications-from-an-authoritarianism-compatible-text-changes-british-attitudes-towards-eu-immigrationnature","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.japan-workers.com\/?p=1369","title":{"rendered":"Implications from “An authoritarianism-compatible text changes British attitudes towards EU immigration(Nature)”"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The most significant implication of this study(An authoritarianism-compatible text changes British attitudes towards EU immigration<\/u><\/a> 2025-09-12 Nature) is that people\u2019s attitudes toward immigration are not fixed and can be shaped through well-crafted messaging<\/strong>. This insight holds considerable importance for Japan in terms of immigration policy, social integration, and political communication. Below, we will discuss how these findings may be applied in the Japanese context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Current Situation of Immigration and Foreign Workers in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Japan has long been considered a \u201chomogeneous nation\u201d or a country that does not officially accept immigrants. However, the reality is that many foreigners now live and work in Japan. In recent years, particularly under programs such as the Technical Intern Training Program and the Specified Skilled Worker system, increasing numbers of workers from Southeast Asia and other regions have entered the country. As of 2023, the number of foreign residents reached an all-time high, and due to population decline and aging, dependence on foreign labor is expected to grow further.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nonetheless, there is still a strong sense of caution or resistance among Japanese people toward foreigners. In particular, in rural areas, concerns such as “deterioration of public safety,” “cultural differences,” and “difficulty integrating” are often cited, and discrimination or prejudice against foreigners continues to be reported. Given this context, how to foster a society that accepts foreigners and promotes coexistence has become a major challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Possibility of Attitude Change and the Political Psychology Approach<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The study conducted in the UK revealed that even those inclined to hold negative attitudes toward immigration may respond positively when immigrants are framed as embodying values they themselves cherish<\/strong>, such as order, diligence, tradition, cleanliness, and safety. This finding draws upon insights from political psychology, especially regarding “authoritarian tendencies”\u2014a mindset that places strong value on social order and traditional norms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Japan, many people similarly worry that “foreigners have different customs” or “may disrupt Japanese order.” However, if immigrants are presented as individuals who “respect Japanese manners and rules,” “work hard and contribute to local communities,” and “value traditional culture,” such narratives may soften negative attitudes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The method used in the study\u2014framing persuasive messages to align with the audience\u2019s values<\/strong>\u2014is already well-known in advertising and marketing, but this research highlights its effectiveness in political and social messaging as well. In a society like Japan, where social norms and conformity play a major role, messages appealing to what is socially desirable or widely accepted may be particularly effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Applying the Findings in the Japanese Context<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In the UK study, a Polish nurse was used as the example of an immigrant. In Japan, similar examples could be drawn from Vietnamese, Filipino, or Nepalese care workers or construction workers. These individuals play essential roles in Japanese society and often work side-by-side with Japanese people, overcoming language and cultural barriers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By telling real-life stories that emphasize how these workers support Japan\u2019s welfare and safety through diligence and respect for local customs, it may be possible to influence more conservative or skeptical segments of society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, if the government and media clearly communicate that accepting foreign workers is a strategic and necessary national policy, emotional backlash may be reduced, and rational understanding may be promoted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Policy and Communication Recommendations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Based on the study\u2019s findings, Japanese government agencies, local authorities, and media organizations should consider the following approaches:<\/p>\n\n\n\n