The Sense of Security and Trust

Background

In Japanese, the term Anshin is commonly used to mean what we have called the sense of security. The word can refer to not only security against a threat but also to express confidence in an outcome, such as in the context of having Anshin that I will be on time for my flight because I am on a train scheduled to reach the airport with time to spare.

The use of the term Anshin in technological contexts has been investigated primarily in the field of risk communication—the process by which nuclear power plant providers, experts, and residents of a plant area interact in order so that residents can get Anshin regarding their safety (Kikkawa et al., 2003, pp.1-8). In the field of risk communication, Kikkawa identified two Anshin states that might be reached, one with knowledge and the other without knowledge. When one has knowledge of technology and feels secure, one is in the state of Anshin with knowledge. On the other hand, when one does not have such knowledge and yet feels secure, one is in the state of Anshin without knowledge. Anshin with knowledge is achieved by active learning and seeking information by users, as well as when technology experts provide information to users.