ABSTRACT
Introduction: Currently, there is confusion about what constitutes medical professionalism in Japan. Method: We compared the histories of the development professionalism in western countries and Japan based on the stage theory of economic development and a literature review. Using the information we gathered, we discuss the reasons why the confusion occurred. Result: In most of western countries, medical professionalism was affected by the industrial revolution and Protestantism. As Weber noted, for Protestants, working industriously and using the gift of one’s talent to earn much money was consistent with the teachings of God. Thus, reward was an important proof of their faith. Meanwhile, the Japanese social system and professionalism were developed independently from the industrial revolution. Since Japan was less influenced by the industrial revolution, knowledge was not subdivided. This resulted in undeveloped specialist jobs and the continuation of classical education based on Buddhism and Confucianism. Japanese professionalism, which included sacrificial altruism, differed from western professionalism, particularly with regard to the concept of reward. Discussion: Due to globalization, Japanese society now has two types of professionalism: one from western ideals and another from classical Japanese ideals. Because these two types of professionalism conflict on certain points, such as the concept of reward, there is confusion about what constitutes Japanese professionalism.