“So many men, so many minds” means that; Each person has their own unique way of thinking and perceiving the world. It is this diversity of minds that brings richness and depth to our society and allows for endless possibilities and innovations.
Jyu nin toiro (十人十色)
“Jyu nin toiro” (十人十色) has the same meaning as “so many men, so many minds”. Literally, it means if there are ten people there, there are also ten different colours.
- 十 is ten
- 人 is people
- 色 is colour
The phrase “Jyu nin toiro” (十人十色) beautifully expresses the concept of individuality and diversity. It highlights the notion that each person has their own unique perspective, thoughts, and preferences. Just like the many colors in the world, there are numerous variations in how people perceive and comprehend the world around them.
The opposite of Jyu nin toiro (十人十色)
The proverb “Iku dou on” (異口同音) is the opposite of “Jyu nin toiro” (十人十色). It conveys the idea that despite people having different opinions or perspectives, they ultimately reach the same conclusion or agreement.
What is welcomed in Japan?
Even though the promotion of diversification is accelerating in Japan, the practice of Jyu nin toiro (十人十色) is still not widely accepted. People prefer to reach a consensus quickly and often engage in “nemawashi”, a process of gathering consensus and support before making decisions. This focus on unity and consensus can sometimes limit the expression of diverse opinions and individuality. However, there is a growing understanding of the benefits of diversity and the need to embrace different perspectives to drive innovation and progress.
For more information about “nemawashi,” refer to the below post.
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