Current location:Culture Curve news portal > opinions
VOX POPULI: Unlike Taylor Swift, few stars in Japan speak out about politics
Culture Curve news portal2024-05-21 11:01:37【opinions】3People have gathered around
IntroductionWhen I visited the United States on business years ago, I turned the TV on in my hotel room to find
When I visited the United States on business years ago, I turned the TV on in my hotel room to find popular actor George Clooney on the screen.
I vividly remember him saying to the effect, “According to the education we’ve received, criticizing the government is something like a duty of American citizens.”
It was a talk show in which celebrities answered questions from viewers.
Regarding film stars engaging in political activism, Clooney noted with complete equanimity, “Why not?”
His reaction made me feel the robustness of democracy in America.
But making political statements is obviously never a simple matter for anyone who is famous.
In fact, pop singer Taylor Swift, whose recent comments about this year’s presidential election have attracted considerable attention, has admitted in her own documentary film and elsewhere that she had agonized over whether to speak out or not.
Ever since she debuted at age 16, Swift said, she was constantly warned about “talking politics and inconveniencing other people.”
But six years ago, she’d finally had enough and publicly criticized a Republican presidential candidate.
This exposed her to ruthless online slander and bashing, but it also freed her, she recalled, as if a muzzle had come off.
It is pointed out that when an influential superstar publicly voices support for a specific politician, this creates a tricky--or even dangerous--situation.
Big-name celebrities are invariably super rich and some people worry that their political endorsements will benefit only the wealthy.
But surely that shouldn’t mean all A-listers must remain silent.
In contrast, how few prominent stars there are in Japan who openly discuss politics.
Swift said to the effect that she will continue to act, having realized it is her responsibility to take advantage of her power of influence and challenge disgustingly cheap policy pledges that are nothing but lip service.
I am bedazzled by her words.
--The Asahi Shimbun, Feb. 19
* *
*Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.
Address of this article:http://northkorea.videocameralive.com/html-64d999928.html
Very good!(564)
Related articles
- Revealed: Brit tourist, 19, subjected to sex attack in Majorca 'was gang
- Dance drama honors development of China's busiest port
- Hamas announces openness to any proposals for a permanent ceasefire
- Boosted by sci
- French sports minister calls for sanctions after Monaco player tapes over anti
- Boosted by sci
- Xijin ferry historical and cultural block
- Boosted by sci
- Company wins court ruling to continue development of Michigan factory serving EV industry
- Data security in focus for safe AI use
Popular articles
Recommended
Pope trip to Luxembourg, Belgium confirmed for September, 2 weeks after challenging Asia visit
6G to be commercially available by about 2030: Experts
Artistry in Clay
Xi says China to cooperate with Micronesia on infrastructure, climate change
Liverpool confirms Arne Slot as Jurgen Klopp's replacement
Dame Joan Collins looks glamorous in a black satin dress with semi
Hawaii is known for its macadamia nuts. Lawmakers want to keep it that way
Israeli FM says 'will suspend' Rafah operation if hostage deal reached: Media
Links
- A Supreme Court social media ruling could set new free speech standards
- CJ McCollum scores 28 points as Pelicans hold off Warriors 114
- Election 2024 poll: Americans dissatisfied with Biden, Trump
- Matias Maccelli scores in OT as Coyotes beat Oilers 3
- Slavin scores go
- Max Fried tosses 6 solid innings and Marcell Ozuna homers as Braves beat Marlins 8
- Slavin scores go
- Ohtani hits 175th home run in Major League Baseball, tying Matsui for most by a Japan
- Kentucky GOP lawmakers remove Democratic governor's role in filling US Senate vacancies
- Speaker Johnson to meet with Trump, offers Marjorie Taylor Greene advisory role as own job teeters