Michael R. Forrest

Theories About Theory F

 

Anyone who has walked the trenches of Japanese industry knows that the Japanese sacrifice a sizable measure of individual freedom for professional security ("Theory F," April). The fear of being ostracized is very real, and Joel Kotkin and Yoriko Kishimoto have uncovered a growing chink in Japan Inc.'s armor. More and more frustrated middle managers are jumping ship to American companies, both here and in Japan, to take advantage of opportunities to innovate, take risks, advance according to performance, and begin new ventures. I am confident that the U.S. business community will find a way to employ these newly available resources. I wonder how long it will take the Japanese to investigate "Theory U.S.A."