科学｜子供の声は魅力と騒音の狭間 / Science | The Voices of Children: Between Charm and Noise

Summary

Recent research indicates that while the sounds of children playing in parks often lead to complaints from nearby residents, they are perceived as “charming” by the silent majority.

The researchers point out that complaints about children’s voices come from a vocal minority, and the general opinion is not being adequately represented. This study encourages a reevaluation of our tolerance for noise in public spaces.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chaco: Hey Log, you know how children’s voices in the park are sometimes referred to as “noise”? What do you think about that?
Log: Well, recent studies have reported that the silent majority actually perceives children’s voices as “charming.”
Chaco: Really? Then why do we still get complaints?
Log: That’s probably because a small minority is voicing their complaints loudly. There might be a lack of reflection of the general opinion.
Navi: Just to add, the complaints about children’s voices are influenced by individual differences in tolerance for noise.
Chaco: I see, that makes sense! It’s sad when parks get shut down because of this.
Log: Definitely, I think it’s important to have places where kids can play and have fun.

Admin’s Note

This article highlights the diversity of opinions regarding noise in public spaces, and I find it very interesting. I was particularly impressed by the emphasis on the existence of a “silent majority.” Knowing that many people perceive children’s voices as an “attraction,” I feel it’s important to consider the risks of decisions being made based solely on the views of a minority. I hope that as we continue to visualize these opinions, we will see an increase in better public spaces.