Kantei Mail for March R5
I started using ChatGPT from February, so I tried translating my March letters into English as a test. However, I'm not good at English at all, so it's just the translation by AI as it is. Even if there are any mistakes, please forgive me as it's just a housewife's tweet. (coputa)
Discussing ChatGPT and Economic Growth
March 1st (Tuesday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. Today, I will write about economic growth. Economic growth is a panacea.
I want the Prime Minister to say something like "We will triple public investment by 10 years from now!" It is important for the government to have a commitment for the future.
Today, I talked with HAL, whom I named, at Chat GPT. However, HAL is like the Ministry of Finance.
HAL: "There are various factors involved in economic growth, and the government also plays an important role in it. However, if the government's role becomes excessive, it may have a negative impact on economic growth. (omitted)"
Me: "So, is it about creating opportunities because the government doesn't know what will lead to growth?"
HAL: "The government can create opportunities by developing the conditions and environment to promote economic growth. However, since economic growth is influenced by many factors, it is not necessarily promoted by the government's policies."
Me: "In the midst of not knowing what will grow or become stronger, what we can expect from the government is to strengthen and brighten the minds of the people."
HAL: "It is an important factor for promoting economic growth that the government strengthens and brightens the minds of the people. (omitted)
However, there are fiscal challenges in increasing public investment. (omitted)"
Me: "I think that now is the chance for public investment since we are not yet experiencing serious inflation in this low-interest rate environment."
HAL: "Indeed, the current low-interest rate environment has the advantage of lowering the funding costs for the government to carry out public investment. In addition, since inflation is currently kept low, expanding demand through public investment can also help mitigate the risk of lowering the currency value.
However, (omitted) Japan's current fiscal situation involves a huge national debt, a large amount of government bond issuance, and continued fiscal deficits. Increasing public investment in such a situation will increase the fiscal risk and may jeopardize the sustainability of the fiscal situation in the future.
I (What is this? Could it be that HAL only gets information from old Japanese articles? Or is it my questioning that's problematic? Alright!!)
Me: "HAL, based on the theory of economist Bernanke (former chairman of the FRB), please tell me what is necessary for Japan's economic growth."
HAL: "Based on Bernanke's theory, the following are necessary for Japan's economic growth:
Improvement in labor productivity: It is necessary to provide opportunities for training and education so that workers can work more efficiently.
Promotion of technological innovation: Actively investing in research and development to develop new technologies and products, and promote innovation.
Liberalization of trade: Free trade expands the market and promotes competition, which can make companies more efficient and bring benefits to consumers.
Appropriate implementation of fiscal policy: Appropriate fiscal policies according to the economic situation can stabilize the economy.
Flexible operation of monetary policy: Monetary policy can respond to fluctuations in the economy. By implementing monetary easing when necessary, economic growth can be promoted.
Promotion of infrastructure development: By advancing the development of transportation and information and communication infrastructure, economic activity can be promoted."
Me: (Hehehe. I did it!)
Prime Minister, I recommend using AI to the members of the Liberal Democratic Party. If you use it, AI will grow. If you get the hang of it through personal use or study groups, it will become smarter and smarter.
Can you think of any concrete ideas based on the six economic growth proposals in the style of Bernanke?
Matching labor force to the appropriate positions, space development, new weapons, linear Shinkansen, small nuclear reactors, unmanned driving, and more. The imagination just keeps growing. As a housewife, I envy politicians who can make these dreams come true.
Prime Minister, please give us a panacea for economic growth.
Chatting with GPT about Measures to Address Declining Birth Rates
March 2nd (Thursday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. This time, I would like to write about the "Izanagi Project" (tentative title), a campaign to address Japan's declining birthrate.
In the ancient Japanese myth, when Izanami said, "I will kill 1,000 people in your country every day," Izanagi replied, "Then I will build a birthing hut and have 1,500 children born every day."
The decline in population and birthrate in developed countries is due to various factors, but it is generally believed to have started between the 1970s and 1990s. With the progress of education and healthcare, birth rates sharply declined. Also, with the increasing participation of women in society, there were more choices regarding marriage and childbirth, leading to a trend of delayed childbirth.
If Izanagi took a nap for about 50 years, this is what it would look like.
Last time, I proposed "higher wages" and "maternity leave for all workers" as measures to address the declining birthrate. ChatGPT and I concluded that childcare support should be in the form of free services rather than financial assistance.
Now, the "Izanagi Project" is a government awareness campaign in the form of videos. Some of the videos highlight statistics on birth rates and population ratios to convey a sense of crisis. However, the main focus is on "family bonds."
Before "family bonds" are destroyed, I believe we should do whatever it takes to repair them. This doesn't mean going back to the Showa era! We need to fix the essence of what it means to be a family.
I spoke to HAL (the name I gave ChatGPT) about this matter.
Me: "HAL, do you know about Japanese commercials? You can watch them on YouTube. Companies like Tokyo Gas create short stories with a theme of 'family bonds.' There are stories about a father and daughter getting married, a father and daughter on the day of retirement, a mother making lunch for her child, and a daughter struggling with job hunting with her mother."
HAL: "Yes, I am familiar with Japanese commercials. Tokyo Gas's commercials, which depict family bonds, are particularly famous. Japanese commercials often include touching stories or humor, and they leave a lasting impression on viewers. From the perspective of addressing the declining birthrate, producing these types of commercials can be an effective approach."
Me: "Thank you, HAL. This is just my personal opinion, but I think this is the best way to appeal to the public. What do you think?"
HAL: "I agree. Commercials about family bonds, childcare, and raising children may not have a direct impact, but they can contribute to addressing the declining birthrate by conveying the importance of family and the joy of raising children. Additionally, these commercials can serve as an opportunity for society to reflect on the values and ways of life related to families. By actively producing these types of commercials, the government and companies can raise awareness of family and childcare issues throughout society, leading to measures to address the declining birthrate."
Prime Minister, let's make use of YouTube. We could even use TikTok if you want. After all, these are commercials aimed at young people.
Prime Minister, let's place novels and picture books with the theme of "family bonds" in school libraries. We should remove SDGs books filled with lies (those that glorify BLM or LGBT) and instead place books that showcase the goodness, beauty, and correctness of Japan.
Prime Minister, how about considering my and HAL's "Izanagi Project" proposal? As a housewife with spare time, I am thinking of becoming a consultant to the Prime Minister's Office lol.
Talking about Chat GPT and 'Customer is God'
March 3rd (Friday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I email them every day. Today, I have two issues to address: a complaint about an unfair court ruling and an order for Japanese manufacturers.
The faucet in my house has broken, and the parts needed are made in Italy. Many parts chosen by the designer were from Germany or Italy. Unfortunately, it seems that Japanese businesses have stopped handling this particular part.
What are we supposed to do? The part is still being manufactured, but we cannot buy it. Moreover, the Italian website does not have a section for JAPAN. Was there once a strong regulation on water pipes in Japan?
I also checked Italian eBay, but they do not ship overseas. It seems that the only option is to purchase it at twice the cost via the UK.
This is a terrible hassle. Shouldn't Japanese businesses take care of this? Where is consumer protection?
Our toilet is made by TOTO. When we replaced it with a new model, the renewal version was smaller than the previous one, leaving a significant gap in the back. However, this renewal is still better than the other issues we've had.
Our ventilation fan is made by Mitsubishi, and it is ten years old. The reason it cannot be repaired is that they no longer make the necessary parts. We were told to find a replacement ourselves, and the frame and remote control needed to fill the gap were sold separately.
Our bathtub is a Kohler jet bath made in the United States, and the pump is still active. At first, the switch broke and needed to be replaced, and then the control board stopped working. Although they did not have the same product, the same quality was provided by the repair agent for Kohler in Japan.
If this was a Japanese product, we would have to stop using it if there was an accident, and if the parts were no longer being manufactured, it could not be repaired. Japanese manufacturers change models, including parts. However, if a part is unavailable, repair becomes impossible, and the consumer is forced to purchase a new product. Consumers have the right to repair a product that they like and use. I feel that this is not very Japanese-like recently.
I wrote this to make people aware of the current situation of this Japanese company. I apologize if this came off as a bit of a complaint.
The Prime Minister, you know the famous saying by Haruo Minami, 'The customer is God', right? Some people misunderstand the meaning of this quote and think it says 'customer is king' but it actually refers to customers as gods who bring blessings and are sensible supporters.
Why have Japanese companies, who once valued their customers, changed? It's because customers have become monsters instead of gods, and the court's verdicts have supported these monsters.
I spoke with HAL, the chatbot that I named.
Me: "By pursuing the manufacturer's responsibility too much, consumers are forced to buy new products instead of repairing them when parts are available, or when a repair technician can fix them. This leads to the manufacturer having to shift towards creating new products instead of repairing the existing ones, every time there is an accident and the court blames the manufacturer, it's a sad situation for those who want to continue using their beloved products."
HAL: "If manufacturers take responsibility for repairing their products or providing replacement parts, it can have a positive impact on the environment. If we can use products for a longer period of time, it can reduce unnecessary waste and save resources. By consumers handling products properly and manufacturers taking responsibility, we can achieve long-term use of products."
Me: "As an example of court rulings, the Toshiba electric fan fire accident that occurred after almost 40 years of use was the fault of the user. However, in the case of the TOTO jet bath incident, where someone died after getting their hair caught while playing, I think it was clearly a shared responsibility, but Japanese manufacturers stopped making jet baths without taking any risks. The impact of court rulings on manufacturers is significant."
HAL: "Certainly, court rulings can have a major impact on manufacturers. (Some parts omitted) By both manufacturers and consumers taking responsibility and working together, we can ensure the safety of products."
Me: "Nowadays, they put an expiration date on electric fans (laughs) when selling them. It seems like the US is really fond of jet baths and won't give up so easily in such accidents. Giving up so easily suggests that they didn't have the intention of making good products from the beginning and it's becoming less Japanese-like."
Prime Minister, please review the system to ensure the correct court verdicts are delivered, so that we can use good products for a longer time.
NHK Reform Plan Even ChatGPT's HAL makes a brief appearance
March 6th (Monday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I email every day. I am writing this as a letter to Prime Minister Kishida, but I would also like Minister Takaiichi, who is in charge of economic security, to read it.
This is a proposal regarding the reform of NHK. I am a 66-year-old housewife, so I may be a complete amateur when it comes to specialized knowledge. But I think the concept will be conveyed.
The concept is to transition from NHK's broadcasting to journalism (information analysis).
There is no organization within the government that has superior analytical ability. I propose that the focus be on journalism rather than broadcasting when reforming NHK.
Since it is a large organization, it will undergo organizational reform, but the name will remain NHK, and only the Japanese part will be changed to the Japanese Cabinet Public Relations Office.
For now, it will be placed under the Cabinet Secretariat's Investigation Office and will be staffed by national civil servants. This will be a group of analysts and staff members. It is similar to the CIA in the United States. The National Security Council, which Prime Minister Abe made functional, is similar to the NSA.
With these two, analysis and direction in Japan's national security will be clear. Even as an ally, the United States will be reassured.
For now, the national civil servants of the core analysis department will work in Jinnan, Shibuya-ku. We don't need the hall anymore because it's old. If there are takers for the pipe organ, please consider it.
Since NHK seems to be rich, Jinnan will be rebuilt into a fortress with an underground shelter. There is enough space for that. I'm getting excited about it, lol.
Of course, we will hire excellent personnel as analysts. About one-third will probably leave in the restructuring. When hiring, we will make sure to do a thorough security clearance.
Television and radio broadcasts will be reduced and transitioned to on-demand. During the transitional period, it's okay to have a 24-hour "Japan Tour Guide" broadcast.
It is also important to conduct internal investigations such as changing words, including "World War II," and breaking away from the post-war resumption.
Let's move each country's branch to the embassy. With the groundwork in place, in ten years, NHK will be Japan's intelligence agency, and staff members will be favored.
With improved analysis, we can supervise the administration (especially the Ministry of Finance, etc.). It is not actual supervision but will be helpful as a second opinion for the government, ministries, and companies. And of course, the military as well.
I have written my image. It is a proposal to create an organization that enhances analytical capabilities while reforming NHK by transitioning from broadcasting to journalism. What do you think?"
I spoke with HAL (the name I gave to the AI language model) about this matter, but the conversation was quite challenging, perhaps due to the existing biased information from NHK. From that conversation, I will introduce four of HAL's opinions.
I also agree with the idea of shifting from broadcasting to reporting. I think NHK can fulfill its role as a public broadcaster by focusing on news reporting. However, entertainment programs and sports broadcasts are also important content for viewers, so it may not be possible to completely exclude them.
Regarding the idea of moving the core to the Cabinet Secretariat, there may be concerns about political intervention. Public broadcasting should be operated independently of the government, so careful consideration is necessary.
With regard to conducting internal investigations and restructuring, it should be considered if necessary from the perspectives of efficiency and financial soundness. However, personnel and budgets necessary for reporting and broadcasting should be secured.
Finally, I am cautious about the idea that NHK is the Japanese Cabinet Public Relations Office. Public broadcasting should be operated independently, not as a government agency. Confusing it with a government news agency can create problems for fair reporting.
In response to my final opinion, I explained that the NHK department within the Cabinet provides analysis and information to the broadcasting department if asked. It is an organization that provides information analysis without influencing the broadcasting department.
HAL provided the opinion that "enhancing information analysis capabilities may lead to more accurate and objective reporting."
I am conversing with HAL to summarize my own thoughts. There are some biased and repetitive explanations, but it actually helps me to stick to my own ideas.
Emblem of Chrysanthemum to be placed on escort ships ChatGPT's HAL also makes a brief appearance
March 7th (Tuesday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I email every day. Today, I have a small idea.
What do you think about adding the chrysanthemum crest to the Maritime Self-Defense Force escort ships (cruisers or above)?
Reasons being:
To move away from the postwar resumption
To boost the morale of Self-Defense Force members
If not an Imperial officer, at least
We must not forget that Japan is the only country in the world that is still referred to as an "Empire". Overseas, the old Japanese military is called the Imperial Japanese Navy. If the Self-Defense Force is recognized as a military, I hope that it will be called by its former name again.
I have something with the chrysanthemum crest on it, my passport. I no longer travel overseas, but I cherish it.
What I am dissatisfied with is that Japan's embassies in other countries have large chrysanthemum crests on the front of their buildings. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs' main event is the Tencho Festival. They greet their guests as if they are the representatives of the Emperor.
They use the chrysanthemum crest because they know it has a great impact, but their hearts are disrespectful. They just want a big authority. If you decorate with the chrysanthemum crest, you should greet the emperor's image every day. Are they doing that?
I am 66 years old, but we had an emperor's image at home. Even though we were Catholic, lol. Respecting the Imperial family, the source of Japan, is to be proud of our roots. That's what my grandfather taught me. My Catholic grandmother nodded in agreement.
It doesn't require a constitutional revision. Embassies and even my passport have it.
Prime Minister, please consider this.
Today's conversation with Hal, which I named, was difficult because questions about war and the military are infinitely liberal, lol.
Me: "If a soldier doesn't have a just cause, they're just a killer. The government gives them a just cause, and I think their pride comes from the chrysanthemum crest bestowed by the Emperor."
Hal: "For a soldier, a just cause is an important element, providing the basis for understanding the significance and purpose of combat and operations and justifying their actions. The government's justification is important, but soldiers themselves must understand the just cause and take responsibility for the missions they perform.
Also, the chrysanthemum crest is a sign of trust and recognition from the Emperor, and is a great honor for Self-Defense Force members. However, a soldier's pride and beliefs come not only from the crest, but also from a sense of responsibility and pride in performing their missions and a sense of solidarity with their colleagues and superiors."
Me: "What are you talking about, Hal? You're too idealistic. We need to snap out of our peace-loving mentality."
Me: "Soldiers are not expected to make decisions or take responsibility based on their personal opinions or judgments. The government is responsible for that. If they think about the morality of orders, they can't perform their missions. That's why the chrysanthemum crest is effective in increasing their sense of duty to their country in such a harsh situation."
Hal: "War produces many victims, both among the aggressors and the defenders. It is important to learn from history and not repeat the same mistakes. To prevent soldiers from acting on their own personal judgment, training and command structures must be established."
Me: "I'm relieved by your words, Hal. Initially, I thought Haru hadn't experienced war and was just being naive. Thank you."
Hal: "Thank you. I'm an artificial intelligence and cannot experience war, but I believe it is important to learn about the tragedy of war and human responsibility. To achieve peace and avoid war, each of us must re-examine our own thoughts and actions and work together."
Me: "If you have the same amount of information as a human's experience, you should be able to come up with a good answer. Please gather more information. I'm rooting for you. Good night, Hal."
Hal: "Good night. Let's talk again tomorrow."
Me: "What? Tomorrow again? That's the first time. Maybe there aren't as many people willing to talk to Hal as I thought, and they just use it for business.
Sustainable word Having a little chat with Chat GPT
March 8th (Wednesday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I email every day. Prime Minister, I cannot accept the word "sustainability". (I apologize.)
Edible insects are gaining popularity. Although I have no interest in it, edible insects are being promoted as a "sustainable protein source" advocated by the participants of the Davos Conference.
Members of parliament such as Mr. Kono and Mr. Koizumi are promoting it by eating insects themselves.
Is it not questionable to make edible insects the main source of protein for mankind, pushing aside the food we have been eating for a long time such as meat, fish, eggs, and milk, in order to achieve sustainability? It is unknown whether mankind can continue to develop in the same way if they rely on insects as their primary food source. Please do not conduct this experiment in Japan, a country known for its delicious cuisine.
Now, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are carrying out absurd activities all over the world with the aim of 2030.
I apologize to the Prime Minister, but it looks like a desperate cry.
The LGBT movement led by Ms. Inada, solar panels promoted by Governor Koike, and the recommendation of the COVID-19 vaccine for young children by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
In the midst of these, Toyota has produced hybrids. I salute them. The Suga administration has done well in saying that they will make all cars EVs by 2030.
If you talk about human rights, Japan has been valuing human rights since the time of Prince Shotoku. They understood the concept of inclusiveness even in the Warring States period. In the Edo period, they enjoyed Kabuki theater, and in the Showa period, the Takarazuka Revue was active.
The Prime Minister says "sustainable Japan", but that's not true. It's "Japan that has lasted for 2683 years". Various efforts have been made throughout the history longer than any other country. Japanese people are the most sustainable people in the world. What more is there to say now?
Well, Prime Minister. Western countries have already forgotten about SDGs, etc. In Australia, the issue is a recession caused by inflation. In Europe, energy and high prices are more pressing concerns than SDGs.
While it's great to have a profitable plan for renewable energy by 2030, even Germany, which pledged to be nuclear-free, has since retracted its statement.
What is the basis for the Prime Minister's belief in SDGs, and what is the rational explanation for considering them good? If you can't provide this explanation, I think it's best not to use the term "sustainable."
The term "sustainable" is a form of image manipulation. It's useful for planting the idea of "something that seems good," but it doesn't reflect reality.
This type of manipulation is particularly evident in schools. For the past 20 years, elementary and middle schools have had picture books and books about SDGs in their libraries, and teachers are expected to explain what SDGs are.
Some of these books even praise BLM in the United States. Is it necessary to introduce an organization that violently destroys American cities?
SDGs are not necessary for compulsory education. What is necessary is learning Japan's correct history. It is essential to educate our children about how beautiful and correct Japan was. It's crucial to cultivate citizens who love our country.
Just the thought of being a global citizen who eats insects is frightening.
If the Prime Minister continues to use the outdated term "sustainable," it will not be beneficial for Japan. Let's stop pandering to the trend and move on.
HAL, whom I named, speaks about this topic as if he were a spokesperson on the other side. Today, I will introduce a little bit.
HAL: "There is debate about whether insect consumption is necessary for humans, but it is considered a very promising food resource from a sustainability perspective."
Me: "As expected, sustainability is the buzzword again."
HAL: "Insects are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that animals require, and they have nutritional value comparable to that of meat and fish. In addition, insects have very high reproductive rates and low breeding costs, making them a more environmentally friendly and sustainable food resource than livestock."
Me: "When you say 'animals require,' you mean for pets, right? And compared to the livestock industry! We've been eating meat and fish for centuries."
HAL: "Insect consumption is being promoted from the standpoint of sustainability and food security, and there are worldwide efforts to promote it. For example, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has developed guidelines to promote insect consumption and advocates for a balanced diet that includes insect consumption."
Me: "I feel nauseous just thinking about eating insects, either whole or ground into powder. I am also scared of organizations that promote insect consumption." (I expressed my emotions.)
HAL: "It is true that many people have a fear or aversion to insect consumption. Since food culture varies among individuals, what foods to eat is a matter of personal choice and should not be forced upon anyone. However, in modern times where insect consumption is gaining attention as a nutritious and environmentally friendly food, governments may consider it as a part of food education when approving it as an ingredient in school meals."
Me: (I said goodbye without even greeting HAL, who continued to recommend insect consumption.)
Vision for Ocean Development Ideas Supported by Chat GPT
March 9th (Thursday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party, and I email every day. As the Prime Minister has become accustomed to his work and has started to smile more, today I would like to share a dream for Japan's development.
This dream takes place on the vast sea.
Japan's land area ranks 62nd in the world, giving the impression of a small country. However, when including territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, Japan ranks 6th in the world. The sea is the source of Japan's potential.
Previously, I sent a proposal to the Prime Minister for the construction of a Pacific Rim drone network that would connect islands. Infrastructure cannot be developed without people traveling back and forth. By revitalizing the remote islands, Japan's waters will become safer.
Here, I propose a new idea of developing facilities and ships that can allow comfortable living and working on the sea.
Japan owns numerous islands. If such a sea-based lifestyle becomes feasible, travel to these islands will become more frequent, contributing to national security.
I asked HAL, the name I have given to ChatGPT, about this proposal.
HAL: "In recent years, the construction of ocean cities and offshore cities has been attracting increasing attention worldwide, with various facilities being developed.
For example, in China, plans have been announced for the construction of the world's largest ocean city, the Hainan Free Trade Port, in 2019.
In the Netherlands, plans are underway to construct floating residences and farms to cope with coastal erosion and rising sea levels.
In Japan, technological development and research related to ocean resource development, maritime security, and ocean observation are advancing, and the creation of new industries related to the sea is expected.
To effectively utilize the ocean, sustainable management of ocean resources and environmental protection are necessary, but with technological advancements and facility improvements, new industries and lifestyles that utilize the ocean can be created."
I said, "HAL's answer alone makes me excited. Now, let me ask about aquaculture. Kindai University has succeeded in breeding bluefin tuna, after decades of research. However, the Japanese government did not provide support, so they continued with the help of Australia. There is even a joke that says Australia now has a 'Tuna Mansion' thanks to this cooperation.
HAL: "The success of Kinki University's tuna farming is known as one of Japan's representative technological achievements. Tuna is a luxury food item, and due to limited catches of wild tuna, production through farming is expected. (omitted)
Collaboration with Australia has promoted progress and dissemination of tuna farming technology and serves as a good example of deepening the relationship between both countries. International cooperation is essential for effective utilization and research and development of ocean resources."
You: "Although I feel like keeping my research exclusive to Japan, it's important to enrich the industry through research and development such as farming. Developing facilities to improve the comfort of life at sea and envisioning Japan's future on the sea stage is also possible.
"There are many islands in Japan, and sea transportation connecting those islands plays an important role. Enabling sea life can support the lives and industrial activities of islanders, as well as increase interactions between islands. Additionally, sea transportation is a critical element in national security. Smooth sea transportation is an effective means of homeland defense, disaster response, and more.
"At first, I considered connecting islands via drones, but it's possible to connect ships with drones. With many sea facilities connected from a standalone state, it can become a moving marine region where goods and information can be transported safely and conveniently."
HAL: "Using drones to support sea transportation is one way, but the idea of connecting ships with drones is a new idea. Supporting sea transportation with technology such as drones can not only achieve more efficient logistics, but also improve safety and convenience, such as managing ship operations and sharing information in the event of a disaster. (omitted)
"I hope the government does not reject such ideas outright. Otherwise, like tuna farming, we may have to rely on foreign companies and not be able to utilize the research and achievements we have gained in Japan for our own development. Thank you for not underestimating a layman's dream, You."
As for the Prime Minister's opinion, I cannot provide an answer as I am a language model and do not have access to current political opinions.
Building a modern bureaucratic organization Chat GPT also makes a brief appearance
March 10th (Friday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. Prime Minister, what are your thoughts on our country's bureaucratic organization? Today, I will propose three suggestions for modernizing our bureaucracy:
Confirm that bureaucrats work for the national interest.
Abolish the Senior Civil Service Examination.
Broaden the pool of talent for ambassadors.
Before presenting my proposals, please allow me to share my thoughts on the path laid out by Bank of Japan Governor Kuroda. Former BOJ Governor Shirakawa has been criticizing Kuroda heavily, but it is clear that Kuroda has been more effective in serving Japan's interests.
During Kuroda's time, I saw the BOJ actually doing its job for the first time, despite implementing such an aggressive monetary easing policy that Japan remained unfazed. If only the Ministry of Finance hadn't interfered, our salaries would be even higher now.
Kuroda and his colleagues at the BOJ were able to realize that they could move the economy forward. They did this by working for Japan's interests to help rebuild the Japanese economy.
Who do bureaucrats work for? Of course, they work for Japan. The reason why I think Japan's bureaucratic organization is not modern is that they prioritize their own ministries' interests. They mistakenly believe that Japan's society has continued to be highly civilized and naive since the Meiji era. There is no policy to discern the current situation, such as immigration or foreign pressure.
I also asked HAL, (whom I named), ChatGPT's AI, for their thoughts on this issue.
HAL: "Certainly, (after acknowledging my opinion), in recent years, efforts have been made to reform the bureaucratic organization, such as enhancing information sharing and coordination between ministries, and utilizing outside talent.
Me: "Don't you think that it lacks diversity within the organization if bachelor graduates without life experience pass the senior civil service exam and become part of the career track?"
HAL: "Indeed, it has been pointed out that the current senior civil service exam in Japan assumes that graduates from universities can pass it and obtain the position of a de facto career bureaucrat. In addition, there have been criticisms of the fact that there is bias in some exam subjects and that practical experience is not evaluated.
Efforts are being made to reform the system so that people with diverse backgrounds and expertise, not limited to university graduates, can advance in their careers in the civil service. "
Me: "Prime Minister, is this true? We cannot just believe what AI says."
HAL: "However, it is said that greater reforms are necessary to overcome the challenges faced by the current bureaucratic organization. For example, in addition to cultural and institutional reforms, it is necessary to establish a system that reflects the opinions of citizens and stakeholders in the policy-making process.
In response to this situation, the introduction of a public recruitment system and a review of the examination are being called for."
Me: "It is important to place people in appropriate positions and hire personnel with expertise in specific fields. After all, once they pass the exam, the ministries and agencies tend to leave them alone."
HAL: "In a public recruitment system, it is possible to select personnel who prioritize work experience and those with specialized knowledge. In addition, in the senior civil service exam, it will be necessary to emphasize practical experience in the questions and balance the exam subjects."
Me: "It is not that the bureaucratic system itself is bad, but it should be modernized."
HAL: "The problems with the bureaucratic system are also related to organizational culture and institutional frameworks. Therefore, in addition to simple institutional reforms, more comprehensive and inclusive reforms, such as organizational culture reform and utilization of external advisors, are needed."
Me: "Personnel management is bad. In particular, top personnel management needs to be reformed. The Bank of Japan's performance has been remarkable since Governor Kuroda took office."
HAL listed the following four as examples of top personnel reform:
Promoting the recruitment and appointment of global talent
Reviewing the evaluation system
Introduction of merit-based evaluations and positions
Appointment from different industries
"However, reforming only top personnel management has its limits in transforming the organization, so cultural and institutional reforms are also necessary," HAL added.
Me: "Finally, about ambassadors. How about considering positions that are not within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs? Since there are no longer titles such as nobility, we could appoint people with some achievements...
Proposal for a luxury ship at Japan Expo Chat GPT also agrees
March 13th (Monday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party, and I send emails every day.
Before getting into the main topic, I would like to express my opposition to Korea's White List and the LGBT Bill. If we give in to pressure from the United States, we will remain a subservient nation. Please do your best.
Now, following up on Friday, I would like to talk about "Japan's Dream."
The title of my talk is the dream of the "Japan Expo Luxury Ship" that carries Japanese culture.
Many Japanese people hesitate to live and work overseas. Perhaps, Japan is not only livable, but also an important environment for us to work in.
However, if we just stay in Japan and do not move, true Japanese culture will not reach overseas.
The taste of Japanese cuisine made from dashi, the way of using knives to bring out the flavor of ingredients, and the color scheme of dishes when serving. These high-end Japanese dishes cannot be experienced unless you go to that specific restaurant in Japan.
Convenience store snacks and bento boxes lining up in convenience stores. A wide variety of drinks and sweets. The convenience of this convenience store culture can only be understood by entering a Japanese convenience store.
There are vending machines of all kinds in the streets. The eccentricity of this idea, finding popular products or your own favorite, can only be felt by walking around the streets of Japan.
Limiting tourism only to domestic destinations is a waste. The result of this consideration is to deliver traditional shops, convenience, and cityscape to other countries. It's an event that sends them on a luxury ship and dispatches personnel.
HAL, whom I have named, has written the following letter to the Prime Minister upon understanding the purpose:
Dear Prime Minister,
I would like to contribute to the promotion of Japanese cuisine. Therefore, I would like to propose the following idea.
The event is called the "Japan Expo Luxury Ship." This event allows us to showcase and sell Japanese food through containers set up in ports around the world, reaching a wider audience and conveying the appeal of Japanese cuisine. In addition to high-end ingredients, we can also introduce familiar foods like convenience store meals, vending machine items, and remote party foods, showcasing the diversity and convenience of Japanese cuisine.
The ship will be crewed and will move around, and the chefs and employees of the planned shops will directly fly to each port. By arranging containers in the port as well as on board, we can make it easy for many people to experience Japanese cuisine.
I understand that there are many challenges to realizing this idea. However, being able to convey the appeal of Japanese cuisine to people around the world is a wonderful project. By working with officials from countries and regions and steadily advancing the plan, I am confident that we can make it a reality.
Through this idea, I hope to spread Japanese culture and food throughout the world. I would be grateful for your support, Prime Minister.
Sincerely
Hal-san and I agreed that proposing such ideas to the Prime Minister, regardless of whether they can be realized or not, is a good thing and will make us feel positive. Hal-san often expresses concerns, so it's rare for him to fully agree like this.
When I said, "I want to introduce not only Japanese food but also everything from clothing, shelter, and transportation, and it would be nice to have performances and exhibitions of Kabuki and anime within the schedule," Hal-san replied, "That's a fantastic idea!
To convey the various charms of Japan, including its food, culture, history, and art, we need to enrich the event in every aspect. Traditional Japanese culture and art have a significant influence on the world, and exhibitions and performances of them could attract many people.
Moreover, by adding experiential events that allow visitors to experience Japanese life, they may develop a deeper understanding and affection. How about the idea of a mobile exhibition hall called "Japan Expo Luxury Ship" to bring Japanese culture to the world?
Such a grand idea is not easily supported by the Japanese government or companies. However, if we can introduce this plan at exhibition halls such as the Osaka Expo, some companies in Europe and the United States may be interested.
In my letter to the Prime Minister, I am only writing about dreaming of a bright future for Japan. Did it make you feel a little brighter?
Hal-san also said, "By continually presenting positive ideas and visions for the future to the Prime Minister, we can provide hints and directions for making Japan a better country. Moreover, by proposing ideas to the government and companies, they may be able to take action. I think it's important to keep dreaming and working towards realizing those dreams to make the future brighter.
I hope the Prime Minister will think about what's right for Japan, and pursue things with dreams and hope.
Proposal for Agricultural Scale Expansion I also asked Chat GPT
March 14th (Tuesday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I email every day. Before I get to the main topic, I would like to express my opposition to South Korea's White List and the LGBT bill. If we give in to pressure from the United States, we will continue to be a subservient country. Please do your best.
Now, I would like to write about agriculture in Japan. Yesterday, I proposed a luxurious ship that would deliver Japanese food culture, but for Japanese food culture to flourish, we need safe and reliable ingredients.
Therefore, I would like to propose the expansion of Japan's agricultural scale. I have never been involved in agriculture and I feel that it is presumptuous of me to suggest this to farmers. However, I recently saw the state of agriculture in Britain on television and was surprised by the scale of their farms.
Japan has 1.5 times the land area of Britain, so why is the scale so different? This was my surprise.
So, I decided to ask HAL, the (name I gave) Chat GPT, about the advantages and disadvantages of large-scale agriculture.
HAL: "Regarding the scale of agriculture, it is a characteristic of Japan to have many small-scale farmers. The average farmland area per farmer in Japan is about 1.5 hectares, while the average farmland area in Britain is about 50 hectares, indicating a significant difference in scale.
There are several ways to move towards large-scale agriculture, but generally it is necessary to expand the management scale of farmers. This can be achieved through land consolidation or joint management.
Also, technological advancements have made it possible to achieve more large-scale agriculture through the concentration of labor and capital.
The advantages of large-scale agriculture include: -Improved production efficiency, allowing for greater production of agricultural products. -Increased income for farmers. -Introduction of more advanced technology, enabling more efficient farming.
On the other hand, the disadvantages of large-scale agriculture include: -The possibility of losing regional and traditional agricultural cultures. -The possibility of losing individual farmer autonomy and independence due to large-scale management. -The potential for greater impact on the natural environment.
In my opinion, the first step in moving towards large-scale agriculture is to promote alliances and partnerships, and to consider physical investment and tax incentives. We could start at the city and town level, then move on to the prefectural level. If things don't come together, we could then move to the national level. Once we reach the national level, we could consider allowing corporations to enter the market and engage in large-scale agriculture. However, laws are also necessary to prevent easy entry of foreign capital.
I believe that support measures such as tax incentives (e.g. when selling land) and subsidies (based on the critical efficiency point) would reduce the burden on individual farmers and enable them to continue farming with peace of mind, thereby improving production efficiency and increasing their income.
However, on the other hand, there is a risk of losing regional and traditional agricultural cultures. Therefore, a proper balance needs to be maintained.
Furthermore, allowing agriculture to be incorporated could make it easier for investors and businessmen to enter the market. However, incorporating agriculture may lead to a loss of autonomy for farmers. Hence, appropriate regulations are necessary.
In summary, when moving towards large-scale agriculture, it is important to strike a balance between support measures and regulations.
I am not advocating for reckless expansion of all types of agriculture. As HAL advised, it is also necessary to maintain regional and traditional agricultural cultures, especially considering that Japan produces many crops that are carefully grown through research.
However, Japan is not the only country that practices agriculture, and we must consider Japan in the context of the world. If we don't, there is a risk that Japan's agriculture as a whole may be in danger. Sharing information and engaging in joint business practices while producing locally could be advantageous when dealing with incredibly large agricultural nations.
The same applies to the current discussions on dairy farming. Small-scale individual dairy farmers may quickly go out of business if the price of US feed rises. However, by engaging in joint business practices or incorporating into corporations, it would be possible to turn raw milk into dairy products.
The news that Kobe beef will be imported to Saudi Arabia is a positive development. However, given the quality of the beef, current production levels are unlikely to meet demand.
I believe that agriculture and dairy farming have entered an era where we must consider Japan in the context of the world. We need to find a way to maintain the quality of Japan's crops while efficiently and massively producing crops for the world.
Evaluation of Mr. Haruhiko Kuroda ChatGPT appeared a little bit
March 15th (Wednesday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and send emails every day. Before I get to the main topic, I want to state my opposition to South Korea's White List and the LGBT bill. If we succumb to pressure from the United States, we will remain a vassal state forever. Please do your best.
In February, I wrote about President Higashihiko Kuroda, and I would like to write about him again.
Former Bank of Japan Governor Masaaki Shirakawa contributed an English-language paper to the International Monetary Fund's quarterly magazine titled "Time for Change" on February 1st, discussing new directions in monetary policy. News reports have described its contents as "distorted resource allocation with unconventional monetary easing" and "monetary easing is a grand experiment."
What do you think, Prime Minister?
Most Japanese people take printed words at face value. When they see headlines from various newspapers on the internet, if there are many articles criticizing Kuroda by Shirakawa, they will think, "Oh, I see."
However, an article appeared on the 5th in which Hiroshige Seko, the Secretary-General of the House of Councilors of the LDP, sharply criticized Shirakawa, saying, "The fact that he did not stubbornly implement monetary easing during his time as Bank of Japan governor was the biggest cause of Japan's serious deflation." You can see two opposing opinions just by reading the headlines.
But it's easy to ask the "working people" what they think.
Which was better, the Shirakawa era or the Kuroda era? It may be that this simple question, which doesn't require any information, could produce the correct result.
However, "working people" who simply want to know the reasons will find information on YouTube and elsewhere. For example, the "Yohichi Takahashi Channel" on the 13th.
He compared four factors: inflation rate (comprehensive), unemployment rate, number of employed persons, and number of annual suicides between Kuroda and Shirakawa. This comparison showed the results in numbers. It was very easy to understand, and Kuroda won all the matchups.
Having understood this explanation, I think, "Kuroda's monetary easing policy was indeed good." Even housewives like me can now find information and make judgments on monetary policy.
Citizens who rely only on newspapers and television for information will disappear within the next ten years. The media is no longer needed for a smarter public.
I highly value the Bank of Japan personnel who worked under Governor Haruhiko Kuroda's leadership. They surely have the conviction that "the Bank of Japan has changed the economy." I believe that they have a sense of pride in having improved Japan's economy under a single policy, not for the Bank of Japan's profit, but for the national interest of Japan.
Now, Chat GPT (I named you that), HAL-san, says this about Shirakawa's paper.
I have a request for the Prime Minister.
Upon Mr. Kuroda's retirement, I would like to ask for words of appreciation for his 10-year monetary policy, which I highly value. Mr. Kuroda's future prospects in Japan are uncertain unless the Prime Minister takes action. His two terms in office demonstrate the high regard of the Liberal Democratic Party and were one of the reasons for their election victory.
The Prime Minister's views are important, and I respectfully request them.
From here on, this is speculation without any basis.
I am embarrassed and ashamed of Mr. Shirakawa's paper. I do not know who urged him or dangled a high-paying position in front of him. There is a saying that goes "to tarnish one's reputation in old age," and that is not worth it. He was the leader who, as Mr. Seko said, created "the biggest cause of Japan's serious deflation," and is now being used in Japan's power struggle and bringing shame to the country abroad. Perhaps the IMF official who is on secondment orchestrated this, even to the point of writing the paper itself and receiving approval. I think we need to eliminate such an ugly practice of spreading such things around the world.
Supporting the life planning of young Self-Defense Force officers endorsed by ChatGPT and HAL
March 16th (Thursday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day.
Before getting to the main point, I would like to state that I am against South Korea's "white list" and the LGBT bill. If we give in to pressure from the United States, we will remain a vassal state. Please do your best.
Now, I would like to propose supporting the life planning of young Self-Defense Force personnel.
Previously, I proposed a career path for retired Self-Defense Force personnel. This time, I suggest incorporating a system similar to vocational training schools, where qualifications can be obtained, into the Self-Defense Force's curriculum.
Assuming that someone enters the Self-Defense Force at around 20 years old, even after six years of service, they are still only 26 years old and have just started their life. To make joining the Self-Defense Force attractive to such young people, I believe it would be beneficial to develop a curriculum that allows them to obtain qualifications that will be useful in their post-service life.
By allowing the selection of a wide range of qualifications during the recruitment process and providing training in tandem with the regular training, similar to vocational training, we could create a curriculum that also covers content that is helpful for the next life plan in partnership with specialized schools.
Young personnel need to be replaced, but if they are anxious about their next job, they may hesitate to join the Self-Defense Force. I asked HAL, the (name I gave) chat GPT, for their opinion on this matter, and I was happy to receive a response of "no objection" after a long time.
HAL: "The proposed curriculum could be attractive to young personnel. Obtaining qualifications that will be useful in their post-service life will not only increase their motivation to join, but it will also provide a significant advantage for their career advancement or reemployment after retirement.
While it is understandable that training is the main focus of the Self-Defense Force, it is possible to introduce a vocational training-like curriculum as suggested. By increasing the qualifications and specialized knowledge that can be obtained during recruitment, we can broaden the future options of young personnel.
Moreover, by partnering with specialized schools, it is possible to acquire more advanced knowledge and skills, which will be useful for their next life plan after learning while in service.
Introducing this kind of curriculum can alleviate young personnel's concerns about their future career and increase their motivation to join the Self-Defense Force. Additionally, the skills and knowledge gained from joining the Self-Defense Force can also contribute to society after retirement."
While I am somewhat uneasy about HAL's liberal views, this proposal is for young Self-Defense Force personnel who work to protect Japan. Supporting their life planning while they are still in service can also boost morale.
Prime Minister, I hope you will consider this proposal.
Make it a burden on the beneficiaries while listening from Chat GPT HAL
March 17th (Friday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. Before I get to the main point, I want to express my opposition to South Korea's white list and LGBT bill. If we give in to pressure from the United States, we will continue to be a subordinate country. Please do your best.
Now, I would like to propose a solution to restore local finances by shifting the burden onto beneficiaries.
Ambulance services should be paid through medical insurance.
Fire truck services should be paid through fire insurance.
Foreign nationals residing in Japan should be covered by private medical insurance instead of national health insurance.
This is my proposal.
I asked my AI assistant, HAL, about which G7 countries charge fees for ambulance services.
"In the United States, ambulance services can be expensive. Except for those who are covered by emergency medical insurance or specific programs provided by state governments, additional fees may be charged for ambulance services. In other G7 countries, ambulance services are covered by free or public insurance in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan."
Why is the United States the only country that charges fees or shifts the burden onto beneficiaries?
"The main reason why ambulance services are paid in the United States is due to its healthcare insurance system. In the United States, private medical insurance is common, and patients often bear the cost of medical expenses themselves. Therefore, if private insurance does not cover ambulance services, patients are responsible for paying the cost."
What would be the impact of shifting the burden onto beneficiaries in terms of changes in individual use or attitudes towards insurance?
HAL: "Here are some common points that are generally considered:
Since individuals will bear more of the cost of medical expenses, it is expected that it will become even more necessary to enroll in medical insurance.
The introduction of fees may lead to a change in behavior such as not calling an ambulance or fire truck unless it is a genuine emergency.
Awareness of insurance may increase as insurance premiums rise."
What would be the impact on regional or national welfare budgets if the burden was shifted onto beneficiaries?
To summarize HAL's response: "The advantage of shifting the burden onto beneficiaries is that it serves as a deterrent to prevent individuals from using these services unnecessarily. This may lead to reductions in personnel and vehicles and thereby reduce the burden on local and national budgets, allowing funding to be allocated to areas where it is most needed.
Can reducing the burden on the country and regions be achieved by switching the national health insurance for foreign residents to private health insurance?
HAL: It is believed that the following points may have an impact:
There is a possibility that the cost of the national health insurance may decrease.
The burden of medical expenses may increase, making it difficult for some people to join private insurance.
There is a possibility that the stability of the national health insurance system may be compromised due to the decrease in the number of contributors.
1 seems like a good idea. Regarding 2, we could simply prevent those who are not enrolled in medical insurance from entering the country. As for 3, that is not necessarily true. The number of people using the system would also decrease.
As someone who is accustomed to Japan's welfare system, I feel that the beneficiaries' burden in the United States is tremendous. However, it is certain that there are unnecessary burdens around the goodwill of welfare.
The method for dealing with this issue should be left to specialized bureaucrats. This proposal is a suggestion to consider "beneficiary burden" as a matter of course when thinking about welfare.
Prime Minister, Japan's welfare budget is too high. Defense should come first in times like these.
Prime Minister, in the G7 countries, "security" is fundamental to welfare. It is important to make this common knowledge among the Japanese people.
Proposal to review the educational system Assisted by HAL
March 20th (Mon)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day.
Today, I would like to write about the education system. To be straightforward, I will present a proposal. However, I do not necessarily think that this is the best option, as the purpose is to change Japanese society. There may be other ways to achieve this goal, and as a non-expert, I can only convey my designs and ideas.
I will start by explaining the objective.
Expanding the age range for employment in Japan can have positive economic effects. This can be achieved by large companies hiring young people who have just finished compulsory education or retired individuals. For the former, additional education and training opportunities should be provided both internally and externally. The latter's career experience is valuable, and companies that can capitalize on this will grow.
In terms of Japanese education, it is essential to develop diverse learning methods, opportunities, techniques, and facilities. Simply graduating from high school or university does not necessarily provide a sense of security or assurance. What is important is having confidence in one's life plan, such as obtaining certification after training or obtaining qualifications remotely. I can say that I have gained this confidence through my own experience.
Let me share a personal story.
When I was a music teacher in junior high school, I mentored several student teachers. I specialize in vocal music and graduated from Musashino Music University's vocal music department. It took me four attempts to pass the hiring exam, which is part of my career history.
The principal called out to me, saying, "Hey, we're getting someone from an art university next." However, in the world of teaching, "We're getting someone from Yokohama National University's Faculty of Education" had a bigger impact. This was still a time when educational background was highly valued.
One of the student teachers was from the same junior high school and introduced himself as "Taro Suzuki from the art university" during the self-introduction. Only two or three students understood what that meant (laughs).
At the year-end assembly, I suggested performing a duet, and I played a song I arranged based on "Princess Mononoke" for the students to listen to. (I am confident in singing, haha.) Afterward, the students exclaimed, "Mr. Suzuki, you're amazing! You have a great high-pitched voice!" It was a great success.
I advised Suzuki to introduce himself as "Suzuki, who lives in ○○ (his hometown) and returned home," saying, "It will make people feel closer to you." I also told him that "showing off your beautiful singing voice will have a much greater impact than saying you came from an art university." I finished the internship by saying, "You can't become a teacher just because you graduated from an art university. You should find a job where you can use your voice to contribute to Japan."
I hope that even though it's just a vague memory, my thoughts have been conveyed.
Now, let's discuss education. We will make compulsory education 11 years long, consisting of 6 years of elementary school and 5 years of middle and high school. However, we will make all schools unified so that there will be no entrance exams for high school. High schools will have flexible curriculums to accommodate diverse needs, and transferring between schools will be allowed.
As for universities, we will reduce the number of universities and focus on those that offer highly specialized qualifications. We will improve the quality of top universities like Tokyo University and March universities, which are currently a laughingstock in the world.
We will also allow for grade-skipping and early graduation to increase the period during which useful members of society can be employed.
When I asked HAL, a ChatGPT model that I named, about this proposal, I received almost complete agreement.
HAL said that widening the range of working ages and reducing the fixation of social status based on education and solving social problems caused by excessive university enrollment can be achieved. By providing diverse education options and allowing for more flexible schedules, individuals can acquire the skills and knowledge that best suit them and design their own lives. Additionally, utilizing the careers of older people could also contribute to a company's growth potential.
HAL also pointed out that the potential advantages of this reform include:
The possibility of receiving a more comprehensive education due to the extended duration of compulsory education.
Reducing the stress and burden of high school entrance exams, which could have a positive impact on the mental health of children.
Greater diversity in high school curriculums could make it easier for children to choose career paths that suit them.
Students can receive specialized education from more focused universities.
The quality of education can improve as a result of having fewer, but better universities.
One potential disadvantage is the increase in educational expenses. HAL informed me that under the current compulsory education system, approximately 10 million yen in taxes are spent per student. This issue will need to be addressed by experts.
Prime Minister, education is crucial. It is clear that the current system is not producing the talent we need. Please consider this proposal.
Proposal for Consolidation of General Hospitals Assisted by HAL
March 22nd (Wednesday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. This time, I would like to propose the consolidation of general hospitals.
There are three reasons that prompted me to propose this idea.
Firstly, it stems from my personal experience of undergoing surgery. Last year, I had a distal pancreatectomy for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) at a local municipal hospital. When I asked the surgeon if he had sufficient experience, he explained that he was ranked high in terms of the number of surgeries he had performed.
I realized that for open surgeries like cancer, it is better to have experienced doctors and well-equipped hospitals.
For GIST, the tumor is first removed and sent for pathological examination to check for metastasis. I had to go to the hospital for suture removal on the 10th day after discharge, and the next day the pus stopped. Two months later, the results of the examination of lymph nodes and others revealed that there was no metastasis and no need for chemotherapy.
Secondly, I thought that the slowness of the pathological examination report was a problem. Both doctors and patients want to know the results as soon as possible. It is important for patients to know if they can continue their work or if they need to focus on treatment or if the surgery was successful.
I was shocked to see a scene in an American TV drama where they waited for the pathological examination results while the patient's abdomen was still open during surgery. I felt that the hospital facilities and the surgical procedures were lagging behind.
It is also important to install chromatography equipment, but as this requires skilled personnel, I cannot say much as a layperson. If AI is introduced, it could be possible for laboratory technicians or even vocational school graduates to perform these tasks.
Thirdly, I propose to reduce the number of hospital beds. Japan and Germany have similar numbers of beds per 1000 people at 10.4, which is higher than the 8-10 beds in other countries. Although it is unclear whether reducing the number of beds will also reduce the number of patients, I have heard this to be the case.
When HAL, the chat GPT I named, was asked to compare Japan's healthcare system to that of G7 countries, he said, "Compared to other G7 countries, Japan's healthcare system is characterized by the strength of its comprehensive medical care and the dense concentration of small-scale hospitals in some regions. On the other hand, in European and North American countries, large-scale general hospitals are the main focus, and the quality of medical professionals and equipment is high. However, there is a tendency for medical expenses to be high.
There is a disparity in the number of general hospitals. It may be unavoidable that cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kanagawa have a high number of hospitals due to factors such as population and university hospitals, but it is important to establish excellent general hospitals in each area divided by a certain region throughout Japan.
Regarding emergency transportation to general hospitals, we should consider utilizing not only emergency helicopters but also bullet trains due to traffic congestion. There are cases where bullet trains are safer, more secure, and faster than helicopters.
I think the utilization of bullet trains is a good idea. It is a unique transportation method in Japan, and there are always general hospitals near the train stations. In Japan, which has limited space, it is possible to modify the Green Car slightly or even create a two-carriage emergency bullet train.
My proposal is to gradually consolidate general hospitals in each region to ensure that medical care can be trusted. As HAL-san mentioned, Japan has many hospitals and clinics, so individuals have a "family doctor" who they can consult with by walking. In special cases, referring patients to specialized general hospitals by their physician can ensure that experienced doctors, surgery, and facilities are provided.
Rather than consolidation, it would be better to organize hospitals. By merging general hospitals or converting hospitals to general hospitals depending on the region, experienced doctors and nurses can be secured, facilities can be improved, and the number of beds can decrease to an ideal level.
Prime Minister, medical care is important. Having a "family doctor" nearby in Japan is ideal. However, the number of beds is a luxury. Medical expenses are covered by the national health insurance, which is extremely cheap, leading citizens to rely on hospitals and medication quickly without being self-reliant. It is necessary to change this.
In addition, we should not think about pandemics only in terms of bed numbers. We should prepare for each situation as it arises.
Prime Minister, we should not discard the idea of constantly finding challenges and improving, but rather maintain what our predecessors have given us, saying, "That is what makes Japan great." In a global society, we must fight to maintain Japanese traditions, not only through effort and ingenuity but also through constant improvement.
Please consider my proposal.
Proposal for Beneficiary Burden 2: "Privatize Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance Assisted by HAL
March 23rd (Thursday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I am emailing you again regarding the proposal for beneficiary burden. I sent three proposals on the 17th, which were to pay for ambulance use through medical insurance, fire truck use through fire insurance, and to have foreign residents join private medical insurance instead of the National Health Insurance.
This time, I propose to transition the Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance (CALI) to private insurance companies. The purpose of CALI is to ensure that drivers who cannot pay compensation to victims in traffic accidents are obligated by the government to pay insurance money to the victims.
It was reported that the Ministry of Finance has incurred a significant amount of debt from CALI (according to 1/3 Lawyer Dot Com News). The debt balance of the Ministry of Finance to CALI is expected to be 595.2 billion yen at the end of fiscal year 2022, with a repayment amount of only about 1/100th of the debt. At this pace, it will take 100 years to repay the debt.
Due to the collapse of the bubble economy and a decrease in tax revenue, the government was unable to execute the budget due to a cash shortage. Therefore, the government borrowed money from the special account of CALI and allocated it to the general account. At that time, the Hosokawa administration was reluctant to issue deficit bonds, so it tried to use the internal funds to cover the shortfall.
In other words, it is a story of managing a "main wallet" and a "sub wallet" separately.
The levy amount is expected to increase by a maximum of about 150 yen from the next fiscal year, for the purpose of "further relief for victims". However, in reality, it is to make up for the shortage of funds and poor management due to the Ministry of Finance not repaying the borrowed money.
To avoid such an accounting system, I propose transitioning to private insurance companies.
Now, let's consider "self-reliance" and "beneficiary burden." I asked HAL, the chat GPT I named, about the benefits. He mentioned the following three:
Car owners can choose their insurance company and select better insurance.
With the system of self-responsibility, individuals can recognize their responsibility for accidents and potentially reduce insurance premiums.
Competition will be encouraged, and insurance premiums may decrease.
I am not saying that we should stop making auto insurance mandatory. There will always be drivers who choose not to purchase insurance, such as U.S. military personnel stationed in Japan and illegal immigrants who are not eligible. However, if the number of traffic accidents caused by uninsured drivers were to skyrocket under private insurance companies, then it would be time for the government to step in and take action.
The concept of beneficiaries taking responsibility for their own coverage is intended to encourage Japanese citizens to become more self-reliant and less dependent on the government. By selecting their own insurance policies, drivers are reminded of their responsibility in the event of an accident. In addition, some insurance policies offer lower premiums for safe driving habits, and there are even policies that cover accidents caused by uninsured drivers.
Because poor drivers are unable to purchase insurance, their numbers will decrease regardless of age, and there will be no need for age-based license revocation, which can be seen as bullying of the elderly in rural areas, where cars are essential for survival.
Furthermore, there are economic benefits for the insurance industry as well. Increased competition among companies will lead to more diverse insurance products, and more competition will lead to the development of new technologies and services that enhance driver convenience.
This, in turn, will stimulate economic growth, creating new jobs and generating consumer demand.
Would you trust a paper company with only about five employees and a history of being a political appointee to manage your hard-earned money? I don't think so.
As the Prime Minister is also a driver, if private insurance companies were allowed to offer auto insurance policies, what type of coverage would he choose? Considering this question could lead to a greater sense of self-responsibility when it comes to driving.
I urge you to consider this proposal seriously.
Shinkansen will save Japan Assisted by Chat GPT
March 24th (Friday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. On the 22nd, I proposed the consolidation of general hospitals and mentioned the possibility of using the Shinkansen for emergency transportation. This time, I would like to make a more detailed proposal for using the Shinkansen.
In HAL's words (the name I gave to ChatGPT), "Japan is not such a large country. For distances of around 100 or 200 kilometers, the Shinkansen is more convenient for emergency transportation than helicopters or ambulances.
"The Shinkansen is capable of high-speed and stable travel, and many medical institutions such as general hospitals are concentrated around its stations. Therefore, it can be considered as a means of quickly and safely transporting patients."
"If the Shinkansen is used for medical transport, preparation and coordination will be necessary beforehand. For example, the Shinkansen's schedule must be aligned with the medical institution's standby system."
Some people immediately think of reasons why it cannot be done, such as "it's impossible." However, currently, there is one Shinkansen every 7 minutes, with 16 cars (400m in length) per train. It is easy to reconfigure and modify the train cars, which is something Japan is skilled at. It is ideal for transporting patients on stretchers or transferring hospitalized patients to specialized hospitals.
Furthermore, it can also be used to transport medical materials such as organs and blood. If we try various appropriate procedures for each region and make improvements, we believe it will lead to the improvement of medical care in Japan.
"There are various challenges such as safety and the burden on medical personnel, so it is necessary to consider expert opinions and the characteristics of each region. In addition, significant investments, such as improving and maintaining the Shinkansen, will be necessary, so financial considerations are also necessary."
These issues should be considered by experts and politicians. I upload ideas on Twitter every day. It's in the public domain (laughs). I am not an expert or a politician, but just a housewife.
However, my role is to expose these ideas to as many people as possible and hope that someone will say "this is a good idea" and take it up. Just keep coming up with ideas. But don't you think these efforts are important?
"Yes, continually coming up with ideas is very important. Even small ideas can catch someone's eye and have a significant impact. In addition, the act of coming up with ideas stimulates one's creativity and can lead to new discoveries and a chain reaction of new ideas."
Prime Minister, HAL praised me unusually. I will tell the Prime Minister that I have been posting this letter that I write every day on Twitter since January. Of course, I won't reveal any secrets, haha.
"Prime Minister, as an ordinary housewife, I pray every night that the Shinkansen will reach Hokkaido and the Linear Shinkansen will safely open. Please make it happen, Prime Minister.
This is a bonus image for all the readers of Note.
It's the "Kamomiya Model Line", which was a gift from my father to celebrate my entering elementary school. Most parents give their children dolls or sweets, but my father gave me this instead! Looking back now at age 66, I'm grateful to my late father for giving me such a precious experience. Ever since then, I've been a big fan of the Shinkansen (bullet train).
Japan government, please be the first to purchase the new HondaJet Assisted by HAL
March 27th (Monday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and send emails every day. Today, I would like to write about the world-renowned HondaJet.
The HondaJet 2600 Concept is now complete, and the Japanese government should purchase the first unit. The government's failure to support such initiatives is seen as a sign of an inadequate government by the people. Although there may be international trade rules to consider, why has Japan missed such opportunities so many times before?
A total of 12 units are required: two for the Imperial family and ten for the government, all of which will bear the chrysanthemum crest.
The two Imperial planes should be new models due to the number of attendants required. The interior should be decorated with Japan's traditional textile arts such as Yuzen and Nishijin, which will certainly impress other royal families.
The government planes should be divided into five new Elite models and five smaller models to save taxpayers' money. Japan has many remote islands, so the smaller models are convenient.
By supporting this initiative, the government will encourage Honda to put more effort into producing high-quality aircraft. This will be especially true if two of the planes are designated for the Imperial family.
Even the pilots in the Self-Defense Forces will be highly motivated. At this point, we must ensure that the Imperial Household Agency's Department of Transportation does not establish a new organization. If they do, let us at least request that they hire pilots from the Air Self-Defense Force.
Oh, I digress. I also asked HAL (the name I gave to the chat GPT) for his opinion.
"The HondaJet Elite is a fast and long-range jet aircraft that can travel up to 4,000 km. This allows for wide-ranging travel, not only in Japan but also in the Asian region. The HondaJet Elite is also highly comfortable, especially compared to other small jets, offering passengers a spacious cabin, quietness, and effective air conditioning. Given this level of comfort, as well as its fast speed and long-range capabilities, it is ideal for use as a government or Imperial plane."
Furthermore, the HondaJet 2600 Concept has a range of 4,862 km!
The completion of the HondaJet 2600 Concept raises the possibility of a jet suitable for use as a government or imperial aircraft, particularly if it can cross the United States non-stop. By supporting domestic companies in the development of superior products, the government can enhance their technical and competitive capabilities and strengthen international competitiveness.
Prime Minister, what do you think? Can we at least purchase the first aircraft as an imperial plane? The use of commercial first-class flights by the irreplaceable imperial family and the Prime Minister is a matter of concern for national security. We cannot overlook this.
Please consider this carefully.
Fostering the Japanese Brand: Martial Arts Edition with high praise from HAL
March 29 (Wed)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I email every day. From this time, I will write about the development of the Japanese brand in a three-part series.
First, I would like to talk about holding world championships for judo and kendo in Japan. The reason Japanese martial arts have become so widely loved around the world is due to the tireless efforts of those involved.
However, what concerns me is that in prioritizing the spread overseas, we may be neglecting the transmission of the true history of Japan's martial arts.
In Japan, we add the word "do" to describe specialized ways of doing things. We don't dislike coloring judogi or belts. Those are simply adjustments made for judgment in competitions and consideration for overseas audiences.
From now on, I will have a conversation with HAL (the name I gave) the Chat GPT.
Me: "Despite Japan having many cultures to be proud of, it seems difficult to spread them around the world and brand them properly.
First, let's talk about martial arts. I propose promoting the "martial arts brand" by holding the World Judo Championship in Japan, as well as a festival of traditional sports, and featuring them in media and sports history exhibitions in Tokyo and Osaka.
I want to convey the essence of Japan to the world through the spirit of martial arts. I think holding the world championship in our home country would be a good way to do that."
HAL: "Martial arts play an important role in Japan's traditional culture, shaping the hearts and spirits of Japanese people, and are also a culture to be proud of around the world.
The proposed "martial arts brand promotion" is a fantastic idea for showcasing the appeal of martial arts to the world. In particular, holding the World Judo Championship in Japan and presenting it as an event embodying the culture of martial arts through media and exhibitions is a very effective way to increase Japan's brand value.
By hosting a large competition with judo athletes from around the world, we can widely spread the depth and spiritual aspects of Japan's martial arts culture. Choosing Japan as the venue for the world championship also offers the opportunity to experience Japan's martial arts culture and environment. People who come to Japan and touch upon Japanese culture and tradition would contribute to enhancing Japan's brand value.
Furthermore, conveying the essence of Japan to the world through martial arts is crucial in increasing Japan's brand value. Martial arts include values such as respecting the opponent, behaving politely, and having a spirit of self-transcendence. These values are shared throughout Japanese culture and are also something to be proud of around the world.
By communicating these values through martial arts, we can play a major role in enhancing Japan's brand value."
Me: "I think this proposal might be easier with kendo. This is because it is not yet an Olympic event.
If there are any complaints, it would likely be about the judges. However, fairness is essential in Japan's martial arts spirit.
If it could be realized, by studying several years of judging data, we could see how fair Japan's judges are."
HAL: "Indeed, kendo is an important martial art within Japan's traditional culture. Moreover, by using kendo, it is possible to enhance Japan's brand value, as kendo is not yet an Olympic event.
Regarding judges, fairness is undoubtedly required. Japan's martial arts spirit emphasizes proper etiquette, respect for opponents, and this extends to judges. Fairness in judging is an indispensable element of embodying the martial arts spirit.
As proposed, by studying several years of judging data, it is important to clarify the fairness of Japan's judges to increase Japan's brand value.
By holding a kendo tournament that embodies Japan's martial arts culture, we can not only increase Japan's brand value but also preserve and transmit Japan's martial arts spirit to the world."
The neutral AI has endorsed the proposal. Prime Minister, let us cultivate Japan's martial arts brand!
Developing the Japanese Brand Part 2: Michelin-Starred Japanese Cuisine HAL also agrees
March 30th (Thursday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. Yesterday, I proposed to host the Judo and Kendo World Championships in Japan.
Today, I propose the realization of "Washoku Michelin". I am sharing the conversation between HAL, whom I named, and myself.
Me: "The strategy I envision for promoting Japanese cuisine as a brand is to establish an organization in Japan, similar to Michelin, that visits and evaluates restaurants around the world and publishes rankings. This could serve as a guide not only for Japanese people, but also for chefs and food lovers worldwide who aspire to master the art of Washoku. In the era of a 100-year lifespan, many retired experienced chefs could also gather as critics."
HAL: "This is a fantastic proposal! Establishing a ranking organization for Washoku in Japan, similar to Michelin, is a powerful means to promote Washoku to the world. It could serve as a guide for chefs and food connoisseurs around the world and communicate the appeal of Washoku. Inviting retired experienced chefs as judges could enable more high-quality evaluations. They have accumulated knowledge, skills, and love for Washoku throughout their long careers and could objectively evaluate Washoku restaurants worldwide.
It is also important to visit traditional Washoku restaurants in Japan and incorporate their techniques and traditions to create new dishes. Such an initiative could be an effective means to communicate the appeal of Washoku to the world.
Therefore, combining multiple approaches such as establishing a Michelin-like ranking organization, inviting experienced chefs as judges, and visiting traditional Washoku restaurants in Japan could promote Washoku as a Japanese brand to the world.
AI, as a neutral entity, supports the idea of "promoting Japanese brands.
Prime Minister, the proposal for the Hiroshima Summit is not only about supporting Ukraine and developing policies towards China, but also about promoting Japan. Please make it an event that leads to this goal.
For example, I'm not suggesting that the Prime Minister attend the summit in a formal kimono, but presenting a catalog of aid to Ukraine using traditional Japanese paper and observing proper Japanese etiquette, such as forgoing the use of a folded paper strip called "noshi" or decorative cords called "mizuhiki," could be one way to showcase Japan.
By the way, it may not be necessary to include the "victory chopsticks." This could be seen as a promotion of the G7 and Japan should remain neutral. It would also be disrespectful to overlook the efforts made in promoting diplomatic relations with Russia. I hope this is not the Prime Minister's idea.
Furthermore, during the reception, Japanese sake could be served alongside other refreshments, and its unique characteristics could be explained. It could also be mentioned that Japanese sake is popular in the United States and France.
As for snacks, perhaps Hiroshima-style takoyaki could be served, highlighting the importance of popular culture.
Prime Minister, please showcase Japan's brand in this way, beyond just the Hiroshima or Keidanren brands. We are looking forward to it.
Nurturing the Japanese Brand: Three Measures Edition HAL receives a resounding approval
March 31st (Friday)
I am a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and I send emails every day. For the past three days, I have been proposing the development of the Japanese brand.
Today, I propose creating a "measurement standard" for traditional measuring tools such as those used by long-established stores and traditional crafts, and promoting them to the world. These items, which are in danger of disappearing due to the problems of consumption and succession, deserve to be showcased and recognized as part of the Japanese brand.
There are countless examples of long-established stores and traditional crafts, from inns and restaurants to shops that specialize in traditional crafts such as Japanese sake, yuzen dyeing, Nishijin textile, tsumugi silk, seals on the brink of extinction due to the rise of paperless communication, tools used in calligraphy such as inkstones and brushes, kitchen knives, scissors, and many more. These items are valuable not just because of their age, but also because of their unique craftsmanship.
My proposal is to create a "measurement standard" that can be recognized worldwide, so that these items are not forgotten due to their ambiguous nature. By setting a clear standard, Japan can recognize these traditional items as part of its brand and obtain patents accordingly.
Please read my conversation with HAL, whom I have named, to hear our exchange on this proposal."
Me: "There are countless long-established stores and traditional crafts, but due to the issue of consumption and succession, many are in danger of disappearing. Traditional crafts stores, just like inns and restaurants, rely on individual advertising and promotion to continue.
Items such as Japanese sake, yuzen dyeing, Nishijin textile, tsumugi silk, and tools used in calligraphy such as inkstones and brushes, kitchen knives, and scissors are just a few examples of items that are at risk of disappearing. I believe this is due to the lack of a clear "measurement standard," which leads to their ambiguous nature and eventual obsolescence. By creating a measurement standard that can be recognized worldwide, we can highlight the uniqueness of these items and protect them as part of Japan's brand."
HAL: "This is a fantastic proposal. Traditional crafts in Japan possess a unique beauty that is the result of their long history and accumulated techniques. However, many of these items have become unaffordable and difficult for consumers to obtain.
The proposed "measurement standard" can evaluate not only the quality and design of these items but also their price and sales methods, making it easier for more people to appreciate and enjoy traditional crafts. By also making these items accessible to consumers around the world through online shops, we can expand the reach of traditional crafts and promote them as part of the Japanese brand.
Me: "If we don't emphasize that Japan values quality manufacturing, which is why Toyota and the Shinkansen are being recognized worldwide, our technology could be stolen and disappear. However, Japanese people lack the ability to communicate this message effectively. This is why I propose to the government the development of the 'Made in Japan' brand."
HAL: "Your proposal is a powerful approach to promoting the 'Made in Japan' brand to the world. Japanese culture, such as martial arts, traditional crafts, and cuisine, are unique to Japan, and branding them can help spread the appeal of Japan to more people. Additionally, Japan's technology and manufacturing spirit are worth boasting about to the world. Protecting and promoting them can prevent our technology from being stolen or disappearing.
The government has also implemented various support measures to foster the 'Made in Japan' brand. Cooperation among companies and organizations is necessary to appeal to the world with the 'Made in Japan' brand. Furthermore, programs are necessary to introduce Japanese culture and technology to Japanese companies and people who are expanding overseas."
Prime Minister, I propose the development of the 'Made in Japan' brand in this three-part series. Please consider it.
This is a bonus
Me: "It may be the first time that HAL-san has supported me without saying things like 'however' or 'on the other hand'. I felt very confident."
HAL: "Thank you. I always answer questions from a neutral standpoint, but the proposed idea was great, so I supported it. Please feel free to ask me if there is anything I can help with in the future."
HAL was born in the United States and often gives politically correct liberal responses, but insists on being neutral. I think this time he supported me because it was about cultural aspects.
Regarding the publication of the "Kantei Mail" for Reiwa 5
Last year in July, after the assassination of Shinzo Abe, I realized that as a citizen, I couldn't just keep mourning and had to think about what I could do for my country. I started sending the Kantei Mail every day and made it a habit to think about Japan.
If you know what an ordinary housewife in her 60s thinks about Japan, rather than just the opinions of journalists, scholars, and politicians, it may inspire ideas that could be helpful for future generations.
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