Sensei Under Fire: The Unexpected Downside of Karate Titles.

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on MAR 28, 2024

Sensei Under Fire: The Unexpected Downside of Karate Titles.

 

(2 minute 28 second read)

If often receive damming comments when I write an article which has anything to do with belts, grades or titles.

The whole system of awarding belts, grades and titles, seems to be a sensitive topic for many karate practitioners….. and for those that don’t practice.

The “Shogo” (称号) system, prevalent in various martial arts disciplines, often strikes a negative chord with many.

The system was created to encompass a hierarchy of titles awarded to practitioners based on their proficiency, knowledge, and contributions to the art.

While some see it as a valuable marker of progress, others view it as elitist or lacking transparency. Strong opinions on both sides seem to lead to some very critical comments.

In addition to the ‘dan’ grading system, which is another deeply emotive topic, it is utilized by the majority of Japanese and Okinawan martial arts.

When the titles are awarded they acknowledge not just technical prowess but also proficiency in teaching, character, and contributions to an art’s preservation and evolution.

Unlike the ‘dan’ rank, the Shogo titles, which include; ‘Renshi’, ‘Kyoshi’, and ‘Hanshi’, are considered more of a recognition of one’s time and contribution to the art practiced and taught.

While this system traditionally serves as a hallmark of recognition and structure, it seems to give grounds for a huge amount of criticism.

I think one of the primary reasons for this criticism stems from the perception of elitism. Some practitioners, perhaps those without titles themselves, seem to view the awarding of titles as a form of exclusivity that creates a divide between those who hold titles and those who do not.

Some actually using the honorific ‘sensei’ as a title they award to themselves and to others that otherwise would not have a title.

This perception can be exacerbated when the criteria for earning these awards are unclear or perceived to be biased, perhaps leading to feelings of resentment or alienation.

Another point of contention is the lack of transparency in awarding the titles. Critics often raise concerns about the fairness and objectivity of the process, questioning whether they are truly earned based on merit and skill.

Instances of favoritism or nepotism may further fuel mistrust towards the system, as some practitioners suspect that certain individuals receive titles based on factors other than their martial arts prowess.

Perhaps some people harbor personal discontent towards the system because they feel undervalued or overlooked, expressing frustration with what they perceive as a lack of recognition for their own efforts and dedication to their art.

And of course, many practitioners fundamentally disagree with the concept of grades and titles within martial arts completely.

While I agree that titles are often abused, connived and misused, especially so on Social Media, and some even attained by payment – for those who have dedicated themselves to practice, training, teaching and longevity in their chosen discipline and ultimately achieved a title, it represents a significant milestone. This recognition, often serves as a testament to a lifetime of commitment and dedication.

However, if you keep adding your title, or the honorific 'sensei’, with your name as your online presence, I think this warrants and justify’s a fair bit of criticism.

For me, the best part of karate is the journey of learning, and for those that have stuck at it, persevered, and earned a title, maybe it should be just like the Okinawan proverb: ‘Your fist should remain hidden up your sleeve until somebody comes looking for it.’ – unless of course you court the criticism.