"Yamato Spirit has been one of the most misunderstood, misused and misguided word among both Japanese and foreigners alike for quite some time since meiji era. Unfortunately, the word even symbolized the courage of Japanese soldiers during the past world wars. In today's modern society of Japan, you will be considered as one of the right wing freaks or nationalists if you even use the word. Bringing Yamato Spirit into the world of business with little or no understanding of its true nature and the meaning is not just a bad idea, it is a dangerous proposition. It is like one of American Government's long used propaganda "Nuke for Peace" (peaceful use of nuclear power). Majority of leaders of Japan, like former Prime Minister Nakasone, were naive and stupid enough to have bought it.

"Nuke for Peace" or "Yamato Spirit" for Japan's new global spirit", it is as empty as it is dangerous. Worse yet, there were at least well thought out strategies and tactics behind "Nuke for Peace", but there is nothing, no substance behind this "Yamato Spirit" spoken by consultants and executives alike. I say it is bad joke at best." -- Posted on behalf of James [Bilingual Workforce in Japan @ LinkedIn]