Read the passage and answer the following question:
Japan is often admired around the world for its high level of discipline and social order. From childhood, Japanese people are taught to respect rules, value punctuality, and prioritise community welfare over individual interests. This cultural emphasis on discipline has played a major role in Japan's remarkable progress and social harmony. One can see examples of discipline in everyday life, people stand in neat lines at stations, streets are clean despite a lack of dustbins, and public spaces are rarely damaged. The Japanese education system also strongly focuses on moral training, teamwork, and responsibility. Such habits help develop a sense of collective responsibility among citizens.
During times of crisis, such as natural disasters, the discipline of Japanese people becomes even more evident. They remain calm, organised, and cooperative, which makes recovery faster and more effective. This cultural value has not only strengthened their society internally but has also earned Japan a reputation for efficiency and respect on the global stage.
In the sentence: “This cultural emphasis on discipline has played a major role in Japan’s remarkable progress and social harmony,” what does the word “emphasis” most likely mean in this context?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The sentence states that cultural values of discipline have played a major role in Japan's progress. In this context, 'emphasis' refers to the special importance or attention placed upon being disciplined within Japanese culture.