The Intelligence from The Economist That history should not repeat: Hiroshima’s storytellers
Aug 7, 2020
Noah Snyder, The Economist's Tokyo bureau chief, discusses the vital effort to preserve the stories of Hiroshima and Nagasaki survivors, emphasizing the hope that their experiences can prevent future atomic tragedies. Wendelin von Bredow, the roving Europe correspondent, analyzes the tense Belarusian presidential election, where the long-standing leader faces unexpected opposition and public discontent. The conversation also touches on the intersection of horror storytelling and modern technology, revealing the chilling effects of a recent Zoom prank.
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Hiroshima Survivor's Story
- Takeoka Chisako, a 17-year-old, survived the Hiroshima bombing despite being near the hypocenter.
- She witnessed the horrors firsthand, including her mother's survival and dedicated her life to nuclear disarmament.
Denshosha Project
- The Denshosha project preserves Hibakusha stories through trained volunteers who retell them.
- This ensures the emotional impact of firsthand accounts continues to resonate with future generations.
Japan's Wartime Legacy
- Hiroshima's narrative often focuses on victimhood, causing tension with other nations affected by Japan's wartime actions.
- Japan grapples with its pacifist constitution, with Prime Minister Abe seeking revision despite public support for the status quo.