“Interfering in others’ affairs is one of the hygienic practices of life.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「お節介は人生の衛生術の一つです」
English
“Interfering in others’ affairs is one of the hygienic practices of life.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima presents interfering or being overly involved in others’ affairs—what he refers to as “お節介”—as a form of emotional or social hygiene. This idea may seem counterintuitive at first, as interference is often viewed negatively, but Mishima reframes it as a necessary practice for maintaining the health of relationships or society. By getting involved, one helps to cleanse or address issues that might otherwise fester and cause emotional or social harm. Mishima implies that, just as physical hygiene is necessary for maintaining the body’s well-being, social or emotional hygiene—through involvement in others’ lives—ensures that the social fabric remains intact and that problems are addressed before they escalate.
Mishima’s perspective reflects his belief in the importance of community and responsibility in shaping the moral health of society. Rather than seeing interference as a form of intrusion, he sees it as a form of care—a way to maintain order and prevent decay in human connections. His idea that this interference is a kind of “hygiene” elevates it beyond mere selfish meddling to a more noble and necessary act for the greater good. Mishima often explored themes of duty, loyalty, and discipline, and this quote fits within that framework, suggesting that true community involvement is an essential part of both personal and collective well-being.
In modern times, this quote can be interpreted as a critique of the growing individualism and emotional distance in contemporary society, where people are often encouraged to mind their own business and avoid emotional involvement with others. However, Mishima’s perspective challenges this mindset, suggesting that taking an active interest in others’ lives, offering help, or even providing guidance is an important way to strengthen relationships and maintain societal cohesion. In a world where alienation and self-reliance are often celebrated, Mishima’s concept of “hygienic interference” offers a different model, one where engagement and care for others are seen as vital to personal and social health.
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