Does Nobita's Rich Second-Generation Image Contain Satire on Class and Wealth?

Okay, let's talk about the character Takeshi Gouda (Suneo) in Doraemon. That's a really interesting question.

Does Takeshi Gouda's (Suneo's) "Rich Second Generation" Image Carry Satire on Class and Wealth?

Hey, that's a fantastic question! My answer is: Absolutely, and it's a classic and clever form of satire.

However, this satire isn't the bitter, scathing kind of critique. It's presented in a very childlike and humorous way, after all, Doraemon is primarily for children. We can look at how the character Suneo achieves this satirical effect from a few angles.

Suneo's "Three-Pronged Approach" to Flaunting Wealth: Typical Symbolic Satire

The "rich second generation" image designed for Suneo by author Fujiko F. Fujio is actually quite stereotypical, even symbolic, mainly reflected in the few things he routinely flaunts:

Material Possessions ("What I Have"): This is the most common type. Suneo always has the latest remote-control plane, the coolest game console, limited-edition models, expensive stamps, etc., the moment they come out. Every time he gets a new toy, his first move is to run and show it off in front of Nobita and the others, then deliberately say things like, "This is too advanced for you guys," or "Spots are limited, I can only invite Shizuka and Gian over," to exclude the poorest, Nobita.
Experiences ("Where I've Been"): Besides buying things, Suneo's family also has the money for experiences. Like going to Hawaii for summer vacation, sailing on his uncle's private yacht, or eating expensive matsutake mushroom dishes. These experiences are distant dreams for Nobita from an average family. Suneo capitalizes on these experiences, describing them vividly, again to highlight his uniqueness and sense of superiority.
Connections ("Who My Dad/Uncle Is"): This is a higher level of flaunting. "My dad is a company president," "My uncle is Captain XX," "My cousin is a famous idol"... Suneo constantly name-drops these connections, using his relatives' social status to boost his own image.

These three points combined create a very stereotypical image of the "annoying rich kid." The author uses this exaggerated and repetitive approach so that children can immediately understand how unappealing "showing off" really is.

The Purpose of the Satire: Not Anti-Wealth, But Exploring "What Matters More"

The brilliance of Doraemon is that while it satirizes Suneo's behavior, the goal isn't to incite "class resentment" or "hatred of the wealthy." Instead, it uses contrast to guide readers to think about a deeper question: What truly constitutes real wealth?

The classic conflict in the story is:

Suneo possesses "material wealth."
Nobita, through Doraemon, possesses "imagination and magic that transcends reality."

Almost every episode featuring Suneo's bragging follows a fixed template:

Suneo shows off something new -> Nobita gets envious and jealous -> Cries and runs to Doraemon -> Doraemon pulls out an even more amazing gadget -> Nobita successfully retaliates, often outshining Suneo -> (Usually) Nobita gets carried away, misuses the gadget, and causes chaos.

You see, this process essentially tells children: While money can buy nice things, it has its limits. Imagination, friendship, and a kind heart (Doraemon's gadgets are often manifestations of kindness) can bring experiences that are more magical and fun than money. The story's conclusion often reinforces that mere material satisfaction is hollow, while friendship, dreams, and the spirit of helping each other are far more valuable treasures.

Suneo Isn't Just a "Symbol"; He's Also a "Friend"

If Suneo were merely a tool for satire, the character would be too one-dimensional. The greatness of Doraemon lies in the fact that every character is fleshed out.

He has his own weaknesses: Despite his bragging, Suneo is actually quite cowardly inside. He's frequently bullied by Gian and is one of the most direct victims of "Gianism." When danger arises, he's often the first to yell "Mama!" This contrast makes him seem less hateful and more laughable and pitiable.
He craves friendship: Although he often excludes Nobita, deep down he still longs to be part of the group. His constant association with Gian is also a way of seeking protection and belonging.
He steps up when it counts: Especially in the movies (long stories), when the group faces a real crisis, Suneo sets aside his petty vanity. He uses his family's wealth (e.g., providing transportation) or his own cleverness to fight alongside his friends, showing his reliable side.

This complexity makes Suneo a more three-dimensional character. He is both a satirical symbol of class and wealth, and an ordinary child with flaws, strengths, tears, and laughter.

To Sum Up

So, the character of Takeshi Gouda (Suneo) absolutely carries satire on class and wealth. Through his repetitive, slightly exaggerated displays of bragging, he allows readers to intuitively grasp the absurdity of materialism and vanity.

But this satire is gentle and full of childlike charm. Its ultimate purpose isn't to criticize the wealthy, but rather, through the contrast with Nobita (and Doraemon), to convey a simple yet important value to generations of readers and viewers:

True wealth lies in the things money can't buy — friendship, imagination, courage, and love.