Criminally Inclined Foreigners and Illusions of Mono-Ethnicity
             Japan perceives itself and is perceived by other nations as a mono-ethnic and racially pure society. Since the post-World War Two era, a low crime rate has existed in Japan. Recently however, crime has been on a sharp rise. The combination of Japan perceiving itself as mono-ethnic with the fact that there has been a large influx of foreign workers entering Japan (due to its economic success) has caused an increase in stereotypes and labeling of foreigners as being responsible for the increase in crime. This paper will present evidence that nullifies the theory that foreigners are responsible for increased crime in Japan. In addition, the rise of this racial stereotyping will be examined, and an illustration of its correlation with Japan's illusion of mono-ethnicity will be presented. Additional theories on why crime is rising will then be discussed.
             "The Governor of Tokyo, Shintaro Ishihara, called on the Japanese army division stationed near Tokyo to be prepared for a possible uprising by "third country" people, or "illegal foreigners," in the event of a natural calamity, such as an earthquake (ISSHO)."
             In many countries across Asia, "outsiders"-such as the Vietnamese who have been living in Cambodia for hundreds of years--are viewed as "illegals" and more likely to participate in violent uprisings. This does not necessarily increase the comfort level of living abroad. A short time after Ishihara made these statements, I was back (I say "back" because I lived in Tokyo from Kindergarten through 12th grade) in Japan working a summer job in Ebisu, the newly developing technology sector in downtown Tokyo, also known as "Bit Valley." I would work eight-hour days and then would lift weights at the American Club, which is located between Roppongi and Kamiyacho. After-hours I would frequent the clubs and Izakaya (drin...