There is a parable about an American Businessman and a Mexican Fisherman. It speaks to different perspectives on what we solve for in life. There are also a distinction in what determines the winner in The Game of Life in the American and Japanese version (see below). I wanted to capture this to account for the three Japanese vectors of success in life (wealth, relationships, and societal honor). Hence, a parable about a Japanese Fisherman in the the context of the Mexican Fisherman’s parable.

The Japanese Fisherman’s Parable

Once upon a time, an American businessman visited a serene coastal village in Japan. One morning, he watched a fisherman return to shore with his small boat, filled with a modest catch. The fisherman, slender and weathered, had a calm air about him. He unloaded enough fish to feed his family and handed a portion to some elderly villagers who had gathered nearby. Their eyes lighting up with gratitude.

Curious, the businessman approached. “Your fish are fresh, and your skill is clear. But why only this small catch? If you caught more, you could sell to markets far beyond the village. You could buy more boats, hire workers, and build an enterprise. Soon, you’d be running a fleet, bringing in wealth and status. One day, you could retire wealthy and spend your time as you wish.”

The fisherman smiled, his eyes wise and serene. “And what would I do after retiring?”

The businessman, a bit puzzled, replied, “Then you could relax, spend time with your family, and contribute to the community.”

The Japanese Fisherman’s Day

The fisherman nodded. “I already spend my mornings fishing, which I love. There is enough to feed my family. I use my afternoons teaching my son to fish so he may provide when I am gone. In the evenings, I sit with my wife and tell stories as the sun sets.”

“But more than that,” the fisherman continued, glancing at the elders now happily preparing their fish, “I share with those who can no longer fish for themselves. Our village prospers when we care for one another. And on days when I am not fishing, I help mend the village’s nets and repair boats, ensuring that everyone’s livelihood is secure. In this way, I solve not only for myself and my family but for our entire village.”

The businessman shifted uncomfortably. “That is kind of you, but if you worked harder, you could build something much greater, something that others would admire from afar.”

The fisherman’s smile deepened. “Perhaps. But I find honor not in what is seen from afar, but in what is felt here,” he said, placing a hand over his heart. “True success, I believe, is not only in the wealth we gather but in the strength of our bonds and the kindness we offer. My catch feeds more than just mouths—it feeds spirits and binds us together.”

The businessman stood silent, seeing for the first time what lay beyond the fish. He reflected upon a life lived in harmony with family, with community, and with honor.

As the morning sun rose higher, casting golden light over the village, he wondered if perhaps the fisherman had found the true wealth he himself had been chasing all along.

The Game of Life

A Japanese fisherman and an American businessman playing Jinsei Game - a variant of the Game of Life

There are differences between the American and Japanese variants of Milton Bradley’s (now Hasbro) “Game of Life“. The Japanese variant is also know as “Jinsei Game”. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:

American Variant of “Game of Life“

  • Objective: In the American version, the primary determinant for winning is the accumulation of wealth. Players navigate the game by making career and life choices. The ultimate goal of retiring with the highest net worth.
  • Determinants of Winning: The player with the most money at the end of the game wins.

Japanese Variant of “Game of Life” (Jinsei Game)

  • Objective: The Japanese version does include the concept of accumulating wealth. However it also places significant emphasis on other factors that reflect cultural values, such as relationships and societal contributions.
  • Determinants of Winning:
    1. Wealth/Money: Similar to the American version, money plays a role in the game, but it’s not the sole determinant.
    2. Family/Friends: The Japanese variant includes points for building strong family and social connections. Players may gain or lose points based on how their decisions impact these relationships.
    3. Honor/Society: Contributions to society and acts that bring honor to oneself are valued. Players can earn points for choosing pathways or making decisions that enhance their status and reputation within the community.
  • Overall Scoring: The winner is determined by a combination of these factors—financial success, social and family relationships, and honor/societal impact. This multi-dimensional approach reflects the importance placed on a balanced life that values community and relationships, aligning with Japanese cultural perspectives.

Regional Variants

  • Other Regional Versions: The American and Japanese versions are the most widely noted for their distinct approaches. Other countries have made adaptations to suit local values or interests. For instance:
    • European Versions: Some European editions may have variations in careers and life choices to better reflect regional economic and cultural characteristics, though they generally still emphasize monetary wealth.
    • Localized Editions: In certain countries, localized editions may include elements that reflect national culture or add special cards that introduce unique gameplay twists relevant to local traditions or values.
  • Modern Variants: More recent adaptations of “The Game of Life” sometimes include broader themes such as environmental responsibility or community engagement, reflecting a shift in societal values.

Potential Other Variants

Here are some potential alternative vectors and how they could be incorporated into the game:

  1. Knowledge/Education: Implementation: Players could gain “knowledge points” by landing on spaces that encourage further education (like “Go to College” or “Attend Seminar”).
    Winning Condition: The player with the most knowledge points at the end wins. This could represent a fulfilling life of learning and personal growth.
  2. Happiness/Fulfillment: Implementation: This could be tied to specific life choices, like “Start a Family,” “Pursue your Passion,” or “Travel the World.”
    Winning Condition: The player with the highest “happiness points” at the end wins, symbolizing a life well-lived.
  3. Social Impact/Philanthropy: Implementation: Players could earn “impact points” by donating to charities, volunteering, or choosing careers with a social focus.
    Winning Condition: The player with the most impact points wins, reflecting a life dedicated to helping others.
  4. Adventure/Excitement: Implementation: This could be linked to riskier paths in the game, like starting a business, pursuing extreme sports, or taking adventurous trips.
    Winning Condition: The player with the most “adventure points” wins, representing a life filled with thrills and unique experiences.
  5. Legacy/Impact on Future Generations: Implementation: This could be measured by the size and happiness of a player’s family, contributions to society, or lasting achievements.
    Winning Condition: The player with the most significant legacy wins, symbolizing a life that leaves a positive mark on the world.

Spiritual Fulfillment as Another Vector of “Winning”

Spiritual Fulfillment: Measured by acts of kindness, meditation retreats, or religious devotion. Creativity/Artistic Expression: Earned through artistic pursuits, creative careers, or self-expression. Environmental Responsibility: Gained by making eco-friendly choices throughout the game.

Ultimately, the beauty of “The Game of Life” is that it can be adapted to reflect different values and priorities. By creating your own winning vectors and house rules, you can personalize the game and make it even more meaningful and engaging.

The Game of Life: Twists & Turns (2007):

The Twists and Turns version introduced “Life Tiles” that offered players different paths and rewards, adding some variety to the goals. However, accumulating wealth was still the primary way to win.

Summary

  • American Version: Winning is determined by who has the most money at the end.
  • Japanese Version: Winning is based on a balanced score incorporating wealth, relationships, and societal honor.
  • Other Variants: While some regional adaptations exist, they typically do not diverge as significantly as the Japanese version but may include localized elements or thematic twists.

Contributions to society as a primary life objective

Many cultures around the world emphasize contributions to society as a primary life objective, alongside values such as wealth and personal relationships.

  1. Confucianism: Emphasizes social harmony, believing true purpose comes from community contributions and upholding respect within society.
  2. Ubuntu (Sub-Saharan Africa): Stresses interconnectedness, teaching fulfillment comes from caring for others and supporting community well-being.
  3. Bhutanese Culture: Promotes Gross National Happiness, valuing societal well-being, cultural preservation, and collective good over individual wealth.
  4. Nordic Countries: Emphasize equality and community welfare, valuing societal contributions and collective support through social programs and public services.
  5. Hindu Philosophy: Advocates “Dharma,” meaning duties include supporting society for a fulfilling, righteous life and positive karma.
  6. Indigenous Cultures: Focus on communal harmony and sustainable living, stressing the responsibility of contributing to community and future generations.
  7. Islamic Culture: Highlights “Zakat,” where contributing to society through charity and helping the needy is essential to a virtuous life.
  8. Japanese Culture: Values “Giri” (duty) and “On” (indebtedness), emphasizing contributions that strengthen community and uphold societal honor.

Societal Contribution in Founding Documents of the U.S.A.

American Founding Fathers inside Independence Hall Advocating, in papers, for Contributions to Societal Good

There are aspects within the American Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and other writings by the Founding Fathers that imply or advocate for societal contribution as a fundamental objective.

The Declaration of Independence

The Declaration emphasizes “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” This suggests fulfillment involves both individual and collective well-being. True happiness implies a society where everyone thrives together. The declaration states governments are formed to secure these rights. This indicates that governance should create a society enabling mutual benefit.

The Constitution (Preamble)

The preamble of the U.S. Constitution states, “to promote the general Welfare.” This implies the government should ensure public prosperity. Promoting general welfare suggests collective responsibility for the success of society. It emphasizes the importance of supporting one another’s well-being.

Federalist Papers

Federalist No. 10 by Madison discusses protecting society from factions. It highlights the need to prioritize the common good over personal interests. Ensuring the common good reflects the value of community contributions. Federalist No. 51 mentions justice and public good as government goals. It underscores a vision where public contributions are vital.

Writings of Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson advocated for public education, viewing it as essential for democracy. Education supports informed participation and societal contribution. He believed public service was a noble pursuit. Jefferson encouraged citizens to engage in governance and community improvement for collective benefit.

Writings of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin emphasized civic responsibility and volunteerism. He founded public libraries, fire departments, and schools to improve society. His work showed belief in contributing to public good. Franklin valued personal gains that align with societal benefits. His quote, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest,” reflects this belief.

George Washington’s Farewell Address

George Washington emphasized unity in his farewell address. He advised prioritizing the nation’s interest over personal or sectional gains. His words supported collective effort as essential for public good.

Core Themes Across U.S. Documents and Writings

The founding documents stress the importance of collective well-being. They imply individual rights are best realized through societal contributions. Civic duty is repeatedly emphasized as essential for sustaining society. The government is described as fostering conditions for societal progress. Individual success is linked to advancing the public good. True fulfillment involves benefiting society, not just personal achievement. The pursuit of happiness is tied to collective prosperity.

See Also