Sociologist Furuichi’s post on Nakai dispute draws praise and criticism

Sociologist Noritoshi Furuichi linked a play about the US Red Scare to online public shaming in a post on X. The play, “American Dream,” written and directed by Koki Mitani, depicts Hollywood during the 1940s Red Scare, when people were accused of communist ties.

Furuichi said the story raised questions about how people can be condemned in public and later forgotten.

He said people had condemned former entertainer Masahiro Nakai without evidence during the controversy that preceded Nakai’s retirement in January 2025.

Nakai’s fans praised Furuichi, while other users challenged his claim and asked whether he had read findings by a third-party committee set up by Fuji TV.

The dispute is over whether Furuichi’s account reflects the evidence in the case, as well as how quickly people judge others online.

Furuichi also warned that online statements can remain accessible long after a controversy has passed.