Japan has a high suicide rate because suicide is still considered to be an honorable alternative to failure. <shrug> I generally agree with the Japanese mentality, but I think I'll pass on that one.
as a whole, however, i'd like to believe they are a lot more respectful than people in the cities i've lived in, simply on the basis of having a solid family structure. I can't remember the last time i saw a mom and dad together with a kid around here.
