In Japan cosplay is more developed and there is even a name for adults who slavishly follow cartoon animations and buy comics: otaku.
The Nomura Research Institute has estimated the otaku market is worth US$2.6 billion to the economy and commentators suggest they are a new breed of consumers who want to satisfy aesthetic or emotional needs rather than the desire for status.
Clearly, Taiwan has also generated significant business opportunities related to comic books and the influence of cosplay was recognized two years ago when former president Lee Teng-hui (李登輝) dressed up as an anime character to solicit youth support for his Taiwan Solidarity Union party.
The professor of psychology, I suggest, needs to get in touch with his inner child.
There will be a cosplay convention in Taichung this weekend at the Taichung Elementary School Hall, 153 Taichung Rd, Taichung (台中市台中路153號). It begins at 10am and entrance is NT$150. See www.taconet.com.tw/NANA7777 for further details. For news about other cosplay conventions, stores and clubs go to comic.com.tw.
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