Final answer:
Cultural values such as national identity, resistance to immigration, and traditional business practices have made it harder for Japan to adapt to global competition, despite its economic strength and manufacturing prowess.
Step-by-step explanation:
Some cultural values that have hindered Japan's ability to adapt to global competition include a strong sense of national identity, resistance to immigration, and adherence to traditional business practices. Japan's history as a somewhat isolated archipelago and a colonizer has fostered a cultural homogeneity and a wariness of foreign influence, impacting its labor market and innovation. Economic support after WWII allowed Japan to focus on industries that served foreign markets, mainly the United States. However, this dependency on a single market and an emphasis on industrial policy that discourages services and startups have stymied adaptation. The aging population and aversion to immigration contribute to a labor shortage, especially in low-level service jobs. Moreover, a cultural emphasis on harmony and collectivism could slow decision-making and risk-taking, crucial factors for competing globally.
Despite these challenges, Japan continues to be a leading economic power with a manufacturing sector known for its high-quality products. Innovations in technology show that Japan can overcome cultural barriers, but the process requires a balance between preserving cherished traditions and embracing necessary changes for global competitiveness.