Appeals to social context carry persuasive weight in Japan. What others think, what the group expects, what serves collective welfare, what maintains social standing—these are legitimate and powerful grounds for action. Decisions affect relationships; actions affect standing; choices reflect on groups to which one belongs. Persuasion that acknowledges social reality is more effective than treating decisions as purely individual.
Consider: How will this appear to relevant others? How does this serve collective interests? If respected others have accepted a position, that is reason to take it seriously. The persuader who demonstrates social support—through endorsements, evidence of peer acceptance, appeal to shared values—has a stronger position than one arguing in isolation.
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