The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture by Davies, Roger J - 2003

US: Tuttle Publishing, 2003. Paperback. Like New. 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 amakudar i (the nation's descent from heaven) chinmoku (silence in communication), gambari (perseverance), and giri (soci al 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 w omen in Japanese society. With discussion topics and questions after each chapter, this book is an ea sy-to-use introduction to the distinguishing characteristics of Japanese so ciety; an invaluable resource for anyone-business people, travelers, or stu dents-perfect for course adoption, but also for anyone interested in Japane se 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.