What do Japanese people think of the term otaku?

The term "otaku" has a complex and nuanced meaning in Japanese culture. While it can be used in a neutral or positive way to refer to someone with a strong interest in a particular subject, it has also been used in a derogatory or dismissive way to describe people who are seen as overly obsessed with their interests.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to reclaim the term "otaku" and give it a more positive connotation. This movement has been led by young people who are proud of their interests and want to challenge the negative stereotypes associated with the term.

As a result of these efforts, the term "otaku" is now more commonly used in a neutral or positive way in Japanese culture. However, there are still some people who use it in a derogatory way.

Overall, the term "otaku" has a complex and evolving meaning in Japanese culture. While it has historically been used in a derogatory way, there is now a growing movement to reclaim the term and give it a more positive connotation.