Linguistic discrimination in the digital age: Problems relating to the input of ‘non-Japanese’ names on Japanese websites

One issue relating to language use in the digital age is the problem of linguistic discrimination, otherwise known as linguicism, which refers to the “ideologies, structures, and practices which are used to legitimate, effectuate, regulate, and reproduce an unequal division of power and resources (both material and immaterial) between groups which are defined on the basis of language” (Skutnabb-Kangas, 1988: 13). One form that this discrimination can take is the (mis)representation of names originating from different language systems, which can, in some cases, lead to the denial of access to certain goods and services. Indeed, past research has shown that computer language filters may disallow the input of certain names or discriminate against users with ‘non-standard’ names. On online forums in Japan, it is common to see complaints from non-Japanese residents unable to apply for services, due to problems relating to the written representation of their names online, which are predominantly caused by the constraints of online digital forms.

Based on the online comments of Japanese residents with ‘non-Japanese’ names and the experiences they describe in follow-up contact, I classified the different forms that name-based discrimination can take, including 1) restrictions based on the types of characters and written scripts used, 2) restrictions on the length of permissible names, 3) restrictions based on name order and spacing, and 4) inconsistencies of name representation among different institutions and businesses. Using Language Management Theory (Fairbrother, Nekvapil & Sloboda 2018), I examined how these problems of digital linguistic discrimination are dealt with. I argue that too much burden is placed on the individual to try to gain equal access, and that ultimately, legislation will be needed to rectify the situation.

Paper presented at the British Association of Applied Linguistics Annual Conference at the University of York, August 23^rd~25^th, 2023.

Fairbrother, L., Nekvapil, J., & Sloboda, M. (2018). The language management approach: A focus on methodology. Berlin: Peter Lang.

Skutnabb-Kangas, T. (1988). Multilingualism and the education of minority children. In T. Skutnabb-Kangas & J. Cummins (eds.), Minority education: From shame to struggle (pp.9-44). Clevedon, UK: Multilingual Matters.