17.09.2021

 THE DIET

I read an interesting article in a British magazine about next Japanese prime minister. Current prime minister, Suga Yoshihide, is going to finish his term, and he will not continue playing the role as the prime minister. Thus, it is uncertain that who will be next prime minister and it may be turmoil in Japanese politics. There are three candidates; however, none of them states a radical policy change. 

I like reading an article which relates to Japanese affairs and is published outside of Japan because it gives me a different point of view. I really feel that it is very important and the ability of reading news in English is essential in the future due to globalization.

Anyway, I do not like Japanese politics because no Japanese politicians do not try to make any changes. Most of them are old and hold old ideas, which should be replaced with new ones, in my opinion; however, this political turmoil is paid little attention to by some young people. One of the candidates is slightly younger than others and the young hope for change in the policies. I think no one indicates a radical policy, so nothing will work well.

I found an interesting word in the article, that is Japan's parliament is called "the Diet" in English.

I did not know that. I looked for words and the stories are quite noteworthy.

Firstly, the word "diet" has two origins, Greek and Latin, and the Greek word represents a common meaning such as food and drink consumption.

On the other hand, the Latin word of diet means "a day of the assembly" which changed to "Reichstag" in German. Then this German word "Reichstag", which mean "Germany's parliament", was translated into "diet" in English. In the 19th century, Japan referred to German politics styles and called    Japan's parliament as “The Diet”.

I feel it's funny because we have only one word "Kokkai" in Japanese referring to parliament, congress, and diet. If I have an opportunity to talk about Japan's parliament in the future, I can explain this.

English is my second language, so you may find incorrect sentences.

It would be great help if you leave a comment for me. 

Thank you for reading!