日本姓氏制度的演变

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the historical evolution of the surname system in Japan, highlighting the transition from a mandatory shared surname for couples to the current debate on allowing optional separate surnames, reflecting changing societal attitudes towards gender equality and personal identity [1]. Historical Context - During the Tokugawa period, commoners were prohibited from using surnames - In 1870, the government first allowed commoners to use surnames, and by 1875, it mandated that all citizens must have a surname - The 1898 implementation of the old civil code established the "family system," which unified surnames for couples - The new civil code enacted in 1947 allowed couples to choose between the husband's or wife's surname but maintained the requirement for couples to share a surname, making Japan one of the few countries with such a mandate [1]. Current Trends - Approximately 95% of Japanese women choose to adopt their husband's surname after marriage, while only about 5% of husbands take their wife's surname - The choice for husbands to adopt their wife's surname is often influenced by the rarity or prominence of the wife's surname, or if the wife requests it and the husband is agreeable - Changing surnames requires updating official documents, which can impact women's established professional identities [1]. Societal Debate - The topic of "optional separate surnames" has become a significant issue in Japanese society - A 2024 survey covering 3,000 respondents indicated that over half of participants across all age groups support or lean towards the idea of separate surnames, with higher support among younger individuals and women [1].