had of individuality. The feeling was solidified during this time that to be different contrary to the good of society. The Bushido code of honor and loyalty in a sense dictated the conformity of the warrior class. To be different might have been seen as disrespectful to the lord Through the samurai the conformity of the peasant class was insured. The samurai led the conformity of the peasant class by example, and when necessary fear. Even today in Japan, much of the same sentiment can be felt. It is a direct result of the history of the country. In fact a common phrase used to scare school children in Japan is "The nail that sticks out gets hammered." Corporate Japan is still the most unchanging aspect of their society. Old conservatives that have become powerful business men control most of the industry in Japan. The are the modern equivalent of the samurai in many ways. They instill the sense of honor and loyalty in the people that work for them. Much like the samurai did to the peasant farmers of the old eras, the business leaders today lead by example. The only way to break into their upper echelon is to adopt their ideals and goals. Stories have leaked out of successful business moves that made money for companies were looked down upon. The individual was ostracized from the company for thinking out of the box. The conformity to company ideals has the same reward system that the samurai offered the peasants. Lifetime employment is almost guaranteed to those who adapt the goals and ideals of the company. In addition, to the old conservative business leaders, outsiders are not welcome. The feudal organization of Japans society, it can be argued, is perfectly reflected today in the conservative old line companies. The Bushido code that is reflected in their corporate philosophies dictates the conformity and non-diversity of its employees. The authority given to the power holders in the Japanese society comes dir...
