FROM “GALAPAGOS SYNDROME” TO GLOBALIZATION: JAPANESE BUSINESSES BETWEEN TRADITION AND VIRTUAL REALITY

Abstract

Fluctuating between accelerated globalization promoted by the government and the closed-island mentality termed the Galâpagos Syndrome, Japanese businesses are at a historical moment of decision, having to choose between traditional work styles, old values, and stability on the one hand, and innovation, competition, and change on the other. Facing the growth of the high-tech world and the third wave of AI (artificial intelligence), businesses must confront these new rising industries, which are currently competing on the global arena, and change fast if they want to catch up and be part of the future global economy. The research presents the cultural factors that block traditional Japanese corporations from adapting faster to globalization, and follows the growing gap between traditional work style and the new virtual industries that are fast advancing.