Pokemon... racist???
Well perhaps! As if Tom from Shenmue didn't labour racial stereotypes to the max, it seems that Pokemon itself might encompass the fear of 'outsiders' that is endemic within Japanese culture...
Until the US blockaded the ports of Japan (forcibly) back in the 19th Century and insisted it indulged in outside trade, Japan was by choice a very insular society... Look here...Now, within the twenty first century, popular franchises like Dragonball Z and Pokemon are hitting Western youth with images like this...
and this...
What do you think? Is it a big fuss about nothing? You decide...
To be honest, the pictures do come close to ridiculous Disney supported stereotypes... Thus, they do feel racist. Then again, I can't claim any understanding whatsoever as far as the Japanese society & culture go...
ReplyDeleteDo you know, I've absolutely no idea why I post crap like this...
ReplyDeleteQuite frankly I think I've brought the whole tone of this wonderful site down since I've been promoted to chief GGOTG poster...
I promise to get back to the original premise of this most esteemed blog any time now... :)
You're kidding me, right? That's an excellent post and bloody interesting too... Gaming isn't outside the real world after all... Oh, and you're doing quite a job in keeping the blog alive Father. Thanks!
ReplyDelete