[#144 Cleanliness] What is the difference between being clean and having a 'sense of cleanliness'? The atavistic nature of Japanese discourse on hygiene
Rikedan Kenkoron is a podcast where we chat casually about health-related topics. In this episode, we dive into the topic that everyone wonders about: the difference between being 'clean' (seiketsu) and having a 'sense of cleanliness' (seiketsukan). Even if we think we are conscious of it daily, the definition of 'seiketsukan' is actually quite vague. This time, our two personalities unpack the ingrained concepts of cleanliness in our lives while incorporating a quiz on marriage hunting.
The boundaries of 'seiketsukan' revealed in marriage hunting surveys
First, we tackle a quiz based on criteria sought in potential marriage partners. Using survey results, we explore what men and women in society actually perceive as 'seiketsukan.' From nail length to the cleanliness of undergarments, points that middle-aged men often overlook are raised one after another, heating up the discussion. We talk candidly about the sad reality that being 'clean' by your own standards can be viewed by others as lacking a 'sense of cleanliness.'
What exactly is the difference between being clean and having a sense of cleanliness?
As the discussion progresses, the two hosts delve into the definitions of 'cleanliness' and 'seiketsukan.' They share a wry smile over the ambiguity of the latter, which encompasses not just hygiene—like washing one's body—but also the impressions projected onto others. From the aesthetic sensibilities of the Heian period to modern concepts of hygiene, the episode explores why we are so constrained by the need to be clean from a unique historical perspective. Please listen to the full episode for the rest of the discussion.
* This summary is generated automatically by AI and may contain errors.