"Ijime," which means the intimidation of the weakest people in a social group, has become prevalent in the Japanese educational system. Between April and October of 1985, 155,066 cases of bullying were reported in Japan's schools. The education council cites the rigorous discipline measures undertaken by teachers as the cause of rising violence by students. Reports of student deaths and abuse at the hands of teachers have been made. The young people of Japan are subjected to a system of strict regimentation in which school becomes all-consuming. Seventy-three percent of Japan's voters are dissatisfied with the current educational system. Former Prime Minister Nakasone instructed the Ministry of Education to initiate a sweeping investigation of the causes of violence and possible solutions. Some believe that fostering morality and patriotism in the schools can avert the crisis. The education council has said that the most important reform is to eliminate the uniformity and inflexibility which are thought to be at the root of these educational problems in Japan. Council members hope to accomplish this by respecting the dignity of individuals. The most promising effort at reform is to create legislation to protect the human rights of children. This view would recognize that young people have the right to be protected from the use of aggression and coercion. (SM)