A recent Twitter post trended in Japan when criticize the constant sexism present in anime, manga, video games and music from the Japanese entertainment industry. The author of the message argued that Japan needs to start creating content that does not perpetuate gender inequality, warning that failure to do so will have negative consequences. He also suggested stopping supporting, purchasing or consuming entertainment that reproduces these values, noting that many people have been “casually contaminated by misogyny” in these media outlets.

• «Japan should really start creating anime, manga, video games, and music that are not sexist, because the situation is quite serious. Also, we should stop supporting sexist entertainment first. Don't buy it, don't support it. Many people are being casually poisoned by misogyny due to sexist entertainment in Japan.».

In its publication, The user compared the situation to popular commentary overseas, where many viewers expressed their exhaustion with the constant sensualization of young women in anime. Among the examples cited, comments such as:

• «I stopped watching anime because of the misogyny. It's everywhere, no matter how much you select, you can't escape it.».
• «I got tired of seeing obviously sensual teenagers, so now I read Korean manhwa aimed at women.».
• «Most anime seems disgusting to me now, because of the creepy fans and the sensualization of women and girls.».

The thread also mentioned examples of works that were once popular but that some stopped watching due to their inappropriate portrayal of underage characters.as happened with “My Hero Academia” or the harem comedy “Ladies Versus Butlers”, which was described as an anime full of “universal misogyny”.

The post sparked intense debate among Japanese users, with opinions both for and against. Some supported the initial argument, highlighting that the problem of misogyny in anime is real and widespread.while others criticized the stance, pointing out that the industry is not as problematic as it seems.

• «Why don't you do it yourself? It's too much to ask for others to do it for you. If you want different content, you should create your own.».

Other users have pointed out that most people don't see this supposed problem in the industry. One particularly popular comment mentioned:

• «Most people don't even think about these things. They're overreacting.».

In defense of anime, Some users cited examples of series where women are the protagonists and sexist roles are not perpetuated, such as “K-On!”, “Bocchi the Rock!” and “BanG Dream!”where women are not only the central focus, but have strong and active roles.

On the other hand, Some have pointed out that although there is sexist content, sales data shows that the Japanese entertainment industry is in good shape.. One user pointed out:

• «Sales data shows that there is no problem, the industry is stronger than ever. Works that tried to force politically correct messages, such as Assassin's Creed or Disney, failed».

In short, the post sparked a wide-ranging discussion about the state of anime and manga regarding misogyny, with opinions varying dramatically. Some users are calling for changes in the industry, while others are advocating for creative freedom and claiming that the majority of audiences are not affected by these issues. In the end, the debate makes it clear that the clash of opinions surrounding gender representation in anime is an issue that continues to generate controversy both in Japan and abroad.

Source: Otakomu