Episode 561 - The Otaku, Part 3

This episode explores the globalization of otaku culture, specifically addressing how a distinctly Japanese subculture became an international phenomenon. Against the backdrop of post-war Japan's unique circumstances, the podcast delves into the moral panic surrounding the "otaku murderer" case in the late 1980s, which significantly stigmatized otaku culture in Japan. More significantly, the narrative traces the evolution of otaku culture in the US, highlighting the role of early fan groups, anime conventions, and the internet in fostering its growth. The collapse of Japan's bubble economy in the 1990s is presented as a crucial factor contributing to the expansion of the otaku economy, as disillusioned youth sought solace and identity in their passions. For instance, the increasing acceptance of the "otaku" label among young Japanese people, particularly women, is cited as evidence of this shift. Ultimately, the podcast concludes by suggesting that the global spread of otaku culture demonstrates the power of shared passion and the ability of subcultures to transcend national boundaries, even in the face of initial stigma.