The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture

The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture

Roger J. Davies, Osamu Ikeno
$16.95
Publication Date: March 15th, 2002
Publisher:
Tuttle Publishing
ISBN:
9780804832953
Pages:
280
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Description

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.

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