The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture

by Roger J. Davies, Osamu Ikeno

Overview

In The Japanese Mind, Roger Davies offers Westerners an insightful guide to understanding the unique aspects of Japanese culture.

Readers of this book will develop a comprehensive grasp of Japanese society and the core values that remain at its foundation.

Among the topics explored are:

• aimai (ambiguity), amae (dependence upon others' benevolence), and amakudari (the nation's descent from heaven)
• chinmoku (silence in communication), gambari (perseverance), and giri (social obligation)
• haragei (literally, "belly art"; implicit, unspoken communication), kenkyo (the appearance of modesty), and sempai—kohai (seniority)
• wabi—sabi (simplicity and elegance), and zoto (gift giving)
• As well as discussions of child—rearing, personal space, and the roles of women in Japanese society.

With discussion topics and questions after each chapter, this book is an easy—to—use introduction to the distinguishing characteristics of Japanese society; an invaluable resource for anyone—business people, travelers, or students—perfect for course adoption, but also for anyone interested in Japanese culture.

Next in this series:
Now available separately, Japanese Culture: The Religious and Philosophical Foundations is a fascinating journey through Japan's rich cultural history.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780804832953
Publisher:	Tuttle Publishing
Publication date:	03/15/2002
Edition description:	3rd Edition
Pages:	280
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Roger Davies holds a Ph.D. from the University of Wales, Bangor, and is currently Professor of Applied Linguistics and Academic Director of the English Education Center at Ehime Universityin Matsuyama, Japan.

Osamu Ikeno holds master's degrees in linguistics and ESL from Kobe Universityand the University of Hawaii. He is Associate Professor of English Education in the Faculty of Education at Ehime University.

Editorial Reviews

"When I first saw The Japanese Mind, I assumed it would be similar to Takeo Doi's The Anatomy of Dependence. They're actually quite different. Doi's book focuses on the Japanese concept of emotional dependence, but The Japanese Mind gives an on—the—ground view of a wide range of topics in a way that would be more useful to newcomers who are getting established. Doi's book should be on the reading list too, but a little later. All of the essays in The Japanese Mind are excellent. The authors do a great job of representing their country and what they want for it domestically and globally. Students of Japanese studies, as well as casual readers, will learn a lot." —Japan Reference

"Although it can also be used as a textbook, this collection of essays about a wide variety of Japanese cultural concepts, such as Bushido and Wabi—Sabi, also contains useful information for those wanting a better understanding of Japanese society." —Library Journal

From the Publisher

Twenty-eight essays provide an overview of modern Japanese culture, with attention to the society's values, attitudes, behavior patterns, and communication styles. War, gender roles, seniority rules, group consciousness, and aesthetics are specifically considered. A chronology and glossary are included. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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