U.S.
  • Full Archive
  • Covers

  • Print
  • Email
  • Share
  • Reprints
  • Related

(7 of 7)
Sometimes the system works and turns out efficient next-generation salarymen. But as some of these children reach adulthood, they begin to ask questions for which this narrowest of training provides no answers. The word for them then is majime, whose direct translation is earnest. They are in search of meaning but unequipped with the tools normally used to discern it. They grasp at any world vision they are offered. ufos perhaps; perhaps fortune telling, channeling, yoga or mind control. Once lured, they pursue their new faith with the stupendous energy of the lost.

--Reported by Edward W. Desmond and Irene M. Kunii/Tokyo, with other bureaus


Connect to this TIME Story

Interact with
this story

  • Facebook







Get the Latest News from Time.com
Sign up to get the latest news and headlines delivered straight to your inbox.

Quotes of the Day »

Get & Share
ELLIE BERHUN, Wal-Mart customer, speaking about a post-Thanksgiving shopper stampede that trampled a suburban New York Wal-Mart worker to death




U.S.
  • Full Archive
  • Covers