Idol Social Theory, pt. 1 (Tsuyoki de Yukoze!)
Idol Social Theory, pt. 2

Murr of Tsuyoki de Yukoze! is taking a look at idols within the Japanese society. An essay written for her Society of Culture class, the paper plans to help bring to light this Japan fostered phenomenon.

Part one first gives us an introduction to celebrity, briefly comparing the typical American style of respect and adoration, then pointing out Japan’s distinctiveness. The idol is indeed a unique sort of celebrity, and as Murr points out, even within that uniqueness there is variety. A history of the development and evolution of the idol wraps thing up and begins to set the stage for the rest of the piece.

An emphasis on the difference between male and female idols of Japan is brought to us with part two. Beginning with the gravure and the schoolgirl type female idols, not the only sort, but perhaps two of the more known and popular. A contrast is then made with the male idols and the different expectations and presentation placed upon them. That these males are meant to be a females’ fantasy, where as female idols are meant to be a males’ ideal is one point that particularly stands out.

The information is presented in an interesting manner, all the while invoking a myriad of thought as to how each of the ideas could be expanded even more. I encourage you all to give it a read, and stay tuned for the rest of the series. I know I’m looking forward to reading it all.