The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture

InThe Japanese Mind, Roger Davies offers Westerners an invaluable key to the unique aspects of Japanese culture. Readers of this book will gain a clear understanding of what makes the Japanese, and their society, tick. Among the topics explored:aimai (ambiguity),amae (dependence upon others' benevolence),amakudari (the nation's descent from heaven),chinmoku (silence in communication),gambari (perseverance),giri (social obligation),haragei (literally, "belly art"; implicit, unspoken communication),kenkyo (the appearance of modesty),sempai-kohai (seniority),wabi-sabi (simplicity and elegance), andzoto (gift giving), as well as discussions of child-rearing, personal space, and the roles of women in Japanese society. It includes discussion topics and questions after each chapter. All in all, 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.… (more)