[Keith Schwartz]

That is a good very good question and not "Foolish" at all - you may have to change that name of yours Foolish - lol! My answer would be that Kano was oversimplifying the situation of perfection of human character, i.e.: his contention was the diligent adherence to the maxims of Judo and its physical training/discipline would in themselves bring about an "eventual perfection of human character". In this, I believe Kano was wrong.

Martial Arts do not intrinsically improve human character. However, they DO put people in a very intense discipline demanding situation that does EXPOSE character - both good an bad.

This - in itself is a very valuable service the martial arts can bring to humanity, for that reason alone I still believe it has purpose beyond a physical discipline, BUT: Whether or not that character gets improved, or mearly remains exposed (we all know as many self-seeking mat show offs and bullys as there are truly caring giving individuals) is directly proportional to an individuals wisdom and ability to honestly asses their faults AND the humility and perseverance to correct them.

I do not see a great difference between most martial artists and general society, but for that matter I do not see a vast difference between social club Christians who attend church on Sunday, and live like the world the rest of the week either.

A true Christ follower is both rare and precious to this old world.