Japan is supposedly built by people who would rather run around the bush to get their way rather than simply demand their way. In Japanese companies if the subordinates notice that their boss is wrong, instead of confronting the boss with the facts, they would subtly hint that something is wrong until the boss realises, after which they would praise the boss for being the first to notice. Japan is supposedly built on people with the mindset that this is the way to do it, and it works, even though it may not be the easiest way to get things done, it works. If you understand Japan, you will understand that confrontation is the worst thing that can possibly happen, hence such a system exists. By those who cut right through, I mean those who get straight to the point and don't mess around; the way in which you approach a situation could mean the difference between a superior saying yes, and a superior flatly saying 'not on my watch'.