This is a broad ranging topic worth considering an inclusive account of history and sociology. Since i live in The japanese I will give you just a few points to explore based on my experience living and working in The japanese. How has The japanese changed since ancient times for this has a lot regarding the national identity and character associated with Western culture.
In Ancient The japanese, the japanese were an agrarian people. They toiled in their fields and farmlands glorious crops, veg, and fruit that they weeb would either sell on the market, trade with others, or share with marauding samurai. In terms of wealth the japanese were poor, but they shared what they had. These folks generous and innovative.
There was a strong sense of community amongst the Western people and a strong devotion to the pecking order. That means following socially acceptable norms of the times, and not questioning this pecking order nor the us government. You did what you were told.
Strong community cohesiveness was very important for the Western back then, even during the tricky of times. Giving was more important than receiving. Trust was not earned, it was given regardless of who you’re. Your word was your bond.
Virtues such as patience, kindness, mercy, and devotion to the martial spirit were common place. Letters and the martial arts styles blossomed in ancient The japanese the ones strove to shine in these areas. There was a feeling of wholesomeness and chastity that transcended money and power.
Modern The japanese has all but forgotten about the core virtues. Many of them focus only on their jobs and careers while caring very little about other people. Trust no longer exists outside of each individuals closed community, the ones no longer meet unknown people nor do they open their doors to them. The computer is the new paradigm for meeting new people. Young people have become more taken from society, no longer able to deal with the demands of dating, marriage, and career.
Many young working professionals have settled for average positions inside their companies because they have no interest in being promoted. Western culture has lost a lot of its appeal with the younger generation. Western kids are keen on Christmas and Halloween and celebrations that have nothing regarding their own culture and history. Selfishness has replaced generosity. The ancient ways of Bushido are no longer taught in modern academia, and is considered old and outdated. Where there was trust, now there is fear. Where there was hope, now there is doubt.
What’s left are fragmented items of Japan’s culture. You can still see the culture in its meals, but over time you see more combination concepts being adaptable into Western cooking. National sports such as Sumo, Judo, and Kendo are no longer considered almost holy and pure, now these sports are tainted in scandal over criminal suggestions of misconduct.