What do you think were the biggest Japan and international stories this year?

International: 1.) Trump victory 2.) Brexit referendum 3.) The end of hostilities in Allepo.

Japan: 1.) Breakup of SMAP 2.) Stabbing of an idol 3.) PPAP

Intl: 1. Fall of the Clintons.

Japan: 1. Okinawa base returned?

In Japan, the emperor saying he would like to abdicate; overseas, Trump's victory (followed closely by Brexit).

If this inspirational news is not the biggest story of the year internationally and in Japan too then there is something wrong with both. Think about it. The implications are enormous. And means we have just wasted 50 years.

"Immediate reduction in depression and anxiety for up to eight months seen in patients with advanced cancer given a single dose of psilocybin"

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/dec/01/magic-mushroom-ingredient-psilocybin-can-lift-depression-studies-show

The colossal loss of intelligence in the USA, its people, its media, and the return of Fascism

Japan - Abe's molding the constitution in his own image.

World - Trump's molding of America in his own image.

Japan: SMAP's abdication - a Weapon of Mass Distraction

Global: How blatant lies trumped the truth on the Disinformation Superhighway

International: US electorate votes for Hillary, saddled with Trump.

International: Trump's election, obviously.

Japan: The Great Kumamoto Earthquake in April. This year Japan was struck by number of natural disasters: earthquakes, volcanoes, floods, snowfalls... Quick recovery to those most affected, and strength to us all.

Ditto those two, Sasoriza.