Interest

'Otaku' Term Extends To Introduce Diverse Meanings and Impact on Economy

In today's expanding world of geek culture, being an otaku isn't as simple as just anime and manga anymore. In his new book, marketing analyst Yohei Harada suggests that the term "otaku" can and has extended into differing types and meanings.

Harada's book, entitled New Otaku Economy, introduces four new versions of otaku that have come about. One such version of the "casual otaku," which Harada believes to be a person invested in geek culture, but attempts to use it as a platform for social interaction rather than subsist the stereotype of the shut-in otaku. Harada suggests that a casual otaku does not necessarily splurge on anime merchandise or frequent geek culture events, but still retains an unabashed interest in anime and manga. He also writes that despite a more mild-mannered interest in such mediums, anime and manga have seen lots of popular and economic success in recent years.

Other types of otaku, such as the "hidden otaku" and the "itaotaku" are introduced in Harada's writing. "Hidden otaku" are sociable like "casual otaku," but hide their socially unacceptable interests. "Itaotaku" are antisocial, but flaunt their otaku status (as is exemplified by the itasha phenomenon, or cars decorated with anime decals). Meanwhile, the original category of otaku, "gachiota" — who are both antisocial and reclusive — is shrinking due to migration towards the other categories.

[Via Yaraon]