cronus comments

I would say that with the exception of this one issue Japan as a nation is held in high esteem by most Australians.

Go Japan! I want to see you in the next World Cup. Gambare!

Personally responsible, I meant. Not "purposefully responsible"

There's no need for any Australian people vs Japanese people acrimony here. I think it should be recognised that this situation is not pitting our people against your people, but rather it is diplomatic relations between our governments.

Although most Australians are against whaling on conservation grounds, they are not holding the Japanese purposefully responsible.

Arguments framed in terms of historical context are inherently flawed because whilst in the past they may not have recognised that whales are near extinction, we do now realise this and have a responsibility to protect these magnificent creatures. What is the point in driving them to extinction?

Japan will continue to draw international condemnation on this issue and although Japanese pigheadedness is a trait I occasionally admire, in this case all that is happening is Japan's soft power is being damaged for very little return.

Disclosure: I'm an Aussie, married to Nihonjin. Been to Japan several times. Love Japan. Definitely not a hater.