Institutional Theory Spin-off: Design Philosophy for 'Resilient Systems' Learned from Mito Komon—Social Technology for Avoiding the Need to Reveal the Inro

This is not an extension of a period drama.
It is a discussion on institutions.

Mito Komon—what Mitsukuni Mito symbolized was not 'strong decision-making,' but rather

the long process leading up to a decision.

The reason modern society is fragile is not the conflict of values itself. It lies in

a design that reveals the Inro (final judgment) too quickly.

1. Common characteristics of fragile systems

First, let's organize the troubles in modern systems.

• Explanations are put off

• Conclusions are presented first

• Processes are summarized

• Dissent is treated as 'noise'

As a result, this happens.

This is not a failure of the system.
It is a failure of sequence.

2. Basic principles of 'institutional design' in the style of Mito Komon

The story of Mito Komon can be translated directly into institutional theory.

Principle 1: Do not show final authority until the very end.

It is fine to possess the Inro. However,
do not flaunt its existence.

→ In terms of modern systems:

• Do not put coercive power at the forefront

• Place guidelines before penalties

Principle 2: Incorporate a role for failure into the system

Ukkari Hachibei is,
institutionally speaking, a trial-and-error framework.

→

• Pilot projects

• Model districts

• Demonstration experiments

By making failure 'expected,'
you reduce friction in the actual implementation.

Principle 3: Do not exclude those who voice emotions

Suke-san and Kaku-san are,
in the system, advocates for grievances.

→

• Public hearings

• Public comments

• Stakeholder interviews

Systems decided without accounting for emotions
will inevitably explode later on.

Principle 4: The support staff does the work, but does not take the lead

Kazaguruma no Yashichi and Ogin are
specialists in coordination and information gathering.

→

• Bureaucrats

• Coordinators

• Facilitators

If this is pushed to the forefront too much,
distrust arises that things were 'decided behind closed doors'.

3. Why modern institutions tend to become 'Inro-style'

There are three reasons.

1. Speed is valued

2. Explanation is considered a cost

3. Consensus building is seen as 'inefficient'

However, Mito Komon
demonstrated the exact opposite set of values.

Because the process leading up to revealing the Inro is long,
everyone is convinced the moment it is revealed.