Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Blog #15
I feel I learned a lot this semester about the Japanese culture and myself. By better understanding the way different people think, I am able to in turn better understand why I feel the way I feel about certain things. Also, it was really cool to see how American and Japanese culture had some similarities, but more often than not how they were different and held certain things to a higher esteem than the other would. For instance, age vs ability within a workforce. Overall I really enjoyed this class and definitely loved learning all the concepts. If I were to name one that stuck out the most to me, I would have to say Gamburi, only because I know that I lack that sort of drive, currently in my life. Watching it in action was really inspiring and I hope to emulate it into my everyday life.
Blog #13
Discussion Reflection:
I was not present for this class, so therefore I cannot reflect on the discussion that occurred.
Citations:
1. Ryosaikenbo
a. "even though more than half of married women today are working, the ideal of ryosaikenbo continues to be very influential." Pg. 180
I feel this can still be reflected in today's society. There has been for a very long time, an unspoken concept that men should be the main bread winners in the house. This has only till recently been the norm in American society. I feel that it will be awhile till this could be seen in the Japanese households. This is due to this concept being so well ingrained in the society as well as the Ie system factoring in. I personally believe that it should not matter who makes more money. If I would have to become a stay at home dad in my future family because it makes more sense for me to quit, I would gladly do so.
2. Zoto
a. "Another characteristic of Japanese gift giving is its practicality. Something that can be used is chose for almost all kinds of gifts, and because money is the most practical of all, it is given on many occasions." Pg. 238
3. Soshiki
a. "The bereaved family is expected to be in mourning for the deceased for a specific period of time, called ki chu, which lasts until the forty-ninth day after death, and mo chu, which is for one year after death. However, the bereaved family and close relatives cannot usally be absent from schoor or their companies for such a long time, so the period that they are abset for mourning is predetermined: ten days for a spouse; seven days for a parent; five days for a child; three days for a grandmother, grandfather, sister and brother; and one day for a grandchild, aunt, and uncle." Pgs 212-213
I know that many Americans would find this concept absurd. To have set amount of days that you are allowed to mourn feels to restrictive and by the length that is predetermined, very unrealistic. I also feel that the fact that a child is less than a parent seems weird. As children we know are parents will die before us more than likely. However, parents don't expect to see it the other way around, and therefore mourning would last a lot longer. I honestly can't think of any reason why this is accepted by the Japanese people other than group think. I feel that since it is "established" people don't want to go against the grain and just stick with it. Overall kinda feel this concept is stupid.
I was not present for this class, so therefore I cannot reflect on the discussion that occurred.
Citations:
1. Ryosaikenbo
a. "even though more than half of married women today are working, the ideal of ryosaikenbo continues to be very influential." Pg. 180
I feel this can still be reflected in today's society. There has been for a very long time, an unspoken concept that men should be the main bread winners in the house. This has only till recently been the norm in American society. I feel that it will be awhile till this could be seen in the Japanese households. This is due to this concept being so well ingrained in the society as well as the Ie system factoring in. I personally believe that it should not matter who makes more money. If I would have to become a stay at home dad in my future family because it makes more sense for me to quit, I would gladly do so.
2. Zoto
a. "Another characteristic of Japanese gift giving is its practicality. Something that can be used is chose for almost all kinds of gifts, and because money is the most practical of all, it is given on many occasions." Pg. 238
3. Soshiki
a. "The bereaved family is expected to be in mourning for the deceased for a specific period of time, called ki chu, which lasts until the forty-ninth day after death, and mo chu, which is for one year after death. However, the bereaved family and close relatives cannot usally be absent from schoor or their companies for such a long time, so the period that they are abset for mourning is predetermined: ten days for a spouse; seven days for a parent; five days for a child; three days for a grandmother, grandfather, sister and brother; and one day for a grandchild, aunt, and uncle." Pgs 212-213
I know that many Americans would find this concept absurd. To have set amount of days that you are allowed to mourn feels to restrictive and by the length that is predetermined, very unrealistic. I also feel that the fact that a child is less than a parent seems weird. As children we know are parents will die before us more than likely. However, parents don't expect to see it the other way around, and therefore mourning would last a lot longer. I honestly can't think of any reason why this is accepted by the Japanese people other than group think. I feel that since it is "established" people don't want to go against the grain and just stick with it. Overall kinda feel this concept is stupid.
Blog # 12
1. She uses the time leap initially to go and eat her pudding that her sister ate. In the end the total consequences was that her friend and his new girlfriend died like she would've in the beginning.
2. She is her own god in a sense. As she states, I can do whatever I like and it doesn't matter. If I mess up, I can go back and change it. To me I would describe that as being a divine being.
3. Yes, the scene where she goes back an aces the quiz rather than failing it. The other scene that shows this is when they are playing baseball and she catches every single ball and hits every single one. That would be in my mind considered cheating.
4. I feel the scene where the girl that is shy is pretty much commanded to tell the boy she likes that she would like to go out with him shows this concept very well. She being a first year would be kohai and they would be sempai since they were juniors.
5. Yes and no, there were moments were it seemed that the little sister felt above this role. However,there was one scene in particular that reflected this concept very well in my opinion. This would be when the sister thought Makoto was going to jump out the window and started to act in the kohai role.
6. Chiaki used his last charge to switch the bikes to make sure Kazuko and his girlfriend wouldn't die. He then told Makoto all about him and the future and the device she had landed on that gave her the abilities to jump. He then, by breaking the rules, left her for good since he wouldn't be able to see her for breaking that fundamental rule.
7. I don't think so. I feel that his era would be way to old and unless she somehow events time travel, it will never happen.
8. Kazuko shows the path of science and Aunty Witch shows the path of the arts, her two options for school beyond high school. I feel like it shows that the human being and art are one in the same in a sense. We are art that creates art with our actions. We are all pieces that create a beautiful picture.
9. Gamburi was shown through the character Kazuko. He devoted himself to his studies, and was determined to always better himself. I also think the ideal of group think was shown in the bullying of the one student. No one was willing to speak up and stop it, therefore singling themselves out. So by not doing anything and allowing it to occur, they went with the group.
10. I love Japanese animes. However, I was not a fan of this animation style. I still love them and it is always nice to be exposed to a different type of anime then I normally watch.
2. She is her own god in a sense. As she states, I can do whatever I like and it doesn't matter. If I mess up, I can go back and change it. To me I would describe that as being a divine being.
3. Yes, the scene where she goes back an aces the quiz rather than failing it. The other scene that shows this is when they are playing baseball and she catches every single ball and hits every single one. That would be in my mind considered cheating.
4. I feel the scene where the girl that is shy is pretty much commanded to tell the boy she likes that she would like to go out with him shows this concept very well. She being a first year would be kohai and they would be sempai since they were juniors.
5. Yes and no, there were moments were it seemed that the little sister felt above this role. However,there was one scene in particular that reflected this concept very well in my opinion. This would be when the sister thought Makoto was going to jump out the window and started to act in the kohai role.
6. Chiaki used his last charge to switch the bikes to make sure Kazuko and his girlfriend wouldn't die. He then told Makoto all about him and the future and the device she had landed on that gave her the abilities to jump. He then, by breaking the rules, left her for good since he wouldn't be able to see her for breaking that fundamental rule.
7. I don't think so. I feel that his era would be way to old and unless she somehow events time travel, it will never happen.
8. Kazuko shows the path of science and Aunty Witch shows the path of the arts, her two options for school beyond high school. I feel like it shows that the human being and art are one in the same in a sense. We are art that creates art with our actions. We are all pieces that create a beautiful picture.
9. Gamburi was shown through the character Kazuko. He devoted himself to his studies, and was determined to always better himself. I also think the ideal of group think was shown in the bullying of the one student. No one was willing to speak up and stop it, therefore singling themselves out. So by not doing anything and allowing it to occur, they went with the group.
10. I love Japanese animes. However, I was not a fan of this animation style. I still love them and it is always nice to be exposed to a different type of anime then I normally watch.
Blog #11
After Discussion Reflection:
I was not present in class for the discussion so I cannot give a reflection on the discussion.
Question:
I feel that Wabi-Sabi is reinforced by Shudan Ishiki because once part of the group begins to find beauty in something, the whole group goes with it. They might not truly find the beauty in something, however, they do not want to fight against the group-ism that is so prevalent within the culture.
Citations:
1. Nemawashi
a. "It is very hard to decide on something in Japan where there is no unanimity, and consideration of relationships with coworkers is crucial to the success or failure of important projects. Thus, maneuvering behind the scenes is very important for the Japanese before proceeding," Pg. 160
I find this to be very odd. I feel that in such an environment, no work could ever be accomplished. Yet, somehow the Japanese industries are one of the biggest within the world. I believe that we as Americans would never go for such a way of getting the job done. We tend to have a person say what to do, and then have others do what they are told. Instead of a all for one kind of way of accomplishing things, its more of a top to bottom process. However, since both are so well accomplished, neither should change their ways, but should be aware of each others business procedures.
b. "the Japanese tend to make most decisions before discussing them at a meeting because people attending meetings often feel uncomfortable being too open and forthright or find it difficult to state their own opinions frankly" Pg. 161
With my knowledge of Japanese culture in consideration, this makes complete sense. This all goes back to the ideal of Shudan Ishiki, and not wanting to speak out against the group. So by making the decisions outside of the meeting, they avoid any awkward situations. However, I feel that in America this would seem very weird. The idea of meeting, as I understand it and as do many others, is to openly discuss a topic and try to come up with some sort of resolve that the majority find to be the correct procedure. You bounce ideas back and forth, not just have a formal appearance to agree upon something you already know you agree on. I personally prefer the American style of a meeting.
2. Sempai-kohai
a. "In Japanese companies, the system of wages and promotions is based on seniority rules. The older people become, the more they earn or the greater their chances for promotion." Pg. 188
I feel this system might work for them, but would never be valued in an American business setting. We tend to value ability more than the Japanese due. While age is a factor that can help lead to more experience in a field, the abilities you have are also weighed in such decisions like a promotion. I personally want to be evaluated on my ability and not my age. For instance, I have a friend who has been building computers since he was 8. I would value him more than a 25 year old with a 4 year degree, him only being 21.
b. "Sempai-kohai relationships have deeply permeated Japanese life, but they are starting to change in schools an business organizations. Sempai used to be respected by kohai because of their experience, but lately kohai do not express as high a regard to seniors as in the past." Pg. 192
This is something we are seeing in pretty much all cultures. The modern young adult has a sense of superiority. I am not saying I am above this in anyway, but it is relevant in today's society and structure. I feel that we as Westerns, may have influenced the Japanese in this regard and have given the youth a sense of superiority. I know that it is clearly seen in our youth, me being one of them.
3. Iitoko dori
a. "With time,however, people noticed that if they believed in Buddhism, the emperor system was denied, for it was through original Shinto myths that the emperor's family maintained its position of the highest status in Japan. This presented a serious problem not only for the royal family but also for the Japanese political system at he time. In the seventh century, Prince Shotoku, who was a nephew of Emperor Suiko, occupied the regency and discovered a way of permitting Buddhism and the emperor system to coexist," Pg. 128
I think this was able to hold water in Japan because of the ideal of group think. No one would speak out against it because it works within their pr-established way of life and thinking. I personally don't agree with this. I am very for secularism, separation of church and state. By manipulating the situation in a way to have such control over the state through religion is just wrong to me. However, I feel many Americans would understand this concept, since so many try to justify laws and policies through their religious beliefs.
b. "Iitoko-dori, then, refers specifically to this process of accepting convenient parts of different, and sometimes contradictory, religious value, systems, and this practice has long been widespread in Japan. In modern times, Sakaiya notes that the number of Japanese people who do not admit to following some form of iitoko-dori is only about 0.5 percent of the population."
I personally kind of find this idea funny. The idea of not liking certain parts of religion so you ignore them is something I get at on some of my friends who are religious. I find the whole concept kind of hypocritical. However, many people do this, within our nation do this all the time, finding the rules they want to follow and the ones they don't. I think it is within human nature to do this. I do not really know why this occurs within the Japanese for cultural reasons, but as I already said I think its just a thing people do.
I was not present in class for the discussion so I cannot give a reflection on the discussion.
Question:
I feel that Wabi-Sabi is reinforced by Shudan Ishiki because once part of the group begins to find beauty in something, the whole group goes with it. They might not truly find the beauty in something, however, they do not want to fight against the group-ism that is so prevalent within the culture.
Citations:
1. Nemawashi
a. "It is very hard to decide on something in Japan where there is no unanimity, and consideration of relationships with coworkers is crucial to the success or failure of important projects. Thus, maneuvering behind the scenes is very important for the Japanese before proceeding," Pg. 160
I find this to be very odd. I feel that in such an environment, no work could ever be accomplished. Yet, somehow the Japanese industries are one of the biggest within the world. I believe that we as Americans would never go for such a way of getting the job done. We tend to have a person say what to do, and then have others do what they are told. Instead of a all for one kind of way of accomplishing things, its more of a top to bottom process. However, since both are so well accomplished, neither should change their ways, but should be aware of each others business procedures.
b. "the Japanese tend to make most decisions before discussing them at a meeting because people attending meetings often feel uncomfortable being too open and forthright or find it difficult to state their own opinions frankly" Pg. 161
With my knowledge of Japanese culture in consideration, this makes complete sense. This all goes back to the ideal of Shudan Ishiki, and not wanting to speak out against the group. So by making the decisions outside of the meeting, they avoid any awkward situations. However, I feel that in America this would seem very weird. The idea of meeting, as I understand it and as do many others, is to openly discuss a topic and try to come up with some sort of resolve that the majority find to be the correct procedure. You bounce ideas back and forth, not just have a formal appearance to agree upon something you already know you agree on. I personally prefer the American style of a meeting.
2. Sempai-kohai
a. "In Japanese companies, the system of wages and promotions is based on seniority rules. The older people become, the more they earn or the greater their chances for promotion." Pg. 188
I feel this system might work for them, but would never be valued in an American business setting. We tend to value ability more than the Japanese due. While age is a factor that can help lead to more experience in a field, the abilities you have are also weighed in such decisions like a promotion. I personally want to be evaluated on my ability and not my age. For instance, I have a friend who has been building computers since he was 8. I would value him more than a 25 year old with a 4 year degree, him only being 21.
b. "Sempai-kohai relationships have deeply permeated Japanese life, but they are starting to change in schools an business organizations. Sempai used to be respected by kohai because of their experience, but lately kohai do not express as high a regard to seniors as in the past." Pg. 192
This is something we are seeing in pretty much all cultures. The modern young adult has a sense of superiority. I am not saying I am above this in anyway, but it is relevant in today's society and structure. I feel that we as Westerns, may have influenced the Japanese in this regard and have given the youth a sense of superiority. I know that it is clearly seen in our youth, me being one of them.
3. Iitoko dori
a. "With time,however, people noticed that if they believed in Buddhism, the emperor system was denied, for it was through original Shinto myths that the emperor's family maintained its position of the highest status in Japan. This presented a serious problem not only for the royal family but also for the Japanese political system at he time. In the seventh century, Prince Shotoku, who was a nephew of Emperor Suiko, occupied the regency and discovered a way of permitting Buddhism and the emperor system to coexist," Pg. 128
I think this was able to hold water in Japan because of the ideal of group think. No one would speak out against it because it works within their pr-established way of life and thinking. I personally don't agree with this. I am very for secularism, separation of church and state. By manipulating the situation in a way to have such control over the state through religion is just wrong to me. However, I feel many Americans would understand this concept, since so many try to justify laws and policies through their religious beliefs.
b. "Iitoko-dori, then, refers specifically to this process of accepting convenient parts of different, and sometimes contradictory, religious value, systems, and this practice has long been widespread in Japan. In modern times, Sakaiya notes that the number of Japanese people who do not admit to following some form of iitoko-dori is only about 0.5 percent of the population."
I personally kind of find this idea funny. The idea of not liking certain parts of religion so you ignore them is something I get at on some of my friends who are religious. I find the whole concept kind of hypocritical. However, many people do this, within our nation do this all the time, finding the rules they want to follow and the ones they don't. I think it is within human nature to do this. I do not really know why this occurs within the Japanese for cultural reasons, but as I already said I think its just a thing people do.
Blog #10
1. A geisha practices the art of beauty first and foremost. This can be seen at it simplest in just the wear of a geisha. It broadens then to the art of entertainment, such as the pouring of tea or sake. It also includes the finer arts of music, dancing, and singing. Overall the art of the geisha is a way of life, a way of being. The way of beauty.
2. When my grandma was diagnosed with cancer, we began to see her slowly fade. It was as if there was no possiblity that she would ever be the woman she was, the mother she was, or the grandmother she was. In this way I could see the Japanese aware in my life. Who she was, was a beauty not fully appreciated until she began to "wilt and wither away."
3. Yes, while the actors an actresses were excellent and spoke English well, the slight accents upon the words drew away from the beauty and actually made them "ugly" so to speak. I found myself more drawn to the undertones of not speaking your native language than the actual beauty within the words.
4. I feel like one event that celebrates Kisetsu in America is the Fourth of July. While, at it's base it is a celebration of the independence of our nation, it also has undertones of celebrating summer with the foods and drinks that accommodate the season. However, if Japanese were to celebrate it they would not be eating hamburgers, corn on the cob, watermelon and such, but rather eel.
5. I feel the whole film past the point where she met the Chairman on the bridge was the exact sense of Otogibanashi. As she said in the last scene, "Every step I have taken since then, was to bring me closer to you." The years and years she suffered with immense patience just really embodies this ideal.
6. Wabi is a simplistic idea of beauty. Finding the simple things in something is what makes it beautiful. Sabi is a beauty found after something is lost to you. The appreciation of the beauty once had but now forever gone. I feel that we appreciate a more complex sense of beauty and we tend to appreciate the beauty we have in the moment rather than delve on the past.
7. Wabi is seen when the chairman looks into Chiyo's eyes and finds the very "plain" look in them to be beautiful. Sabi is seen when Chiyo feels she has lost the chairman, and sees the beauty that he was and believes she will never have again.
8. Hatsumomo probably died on the streets. She was turned away and only had the rags on her person. The relationship between Sayuri and the Chairman is that of a danna, its sort of a night time wife, one you do not show off in a formal setting. I believe she is happy, for she got what she prayed for.
9. Okaasan adopted Sayuri. I feel this sent pumpkin into a wild spiral for she lost the one thing she ever wanted. As she stated in the scene on the island.
10. Gambari is seen throughout the whole movie. The premise of becoming a gaisha is that you have to devote your life to the practice. This is textbook gambari.
11. I loved the movie. I felt the ending was awesome, although I had predicted it as I was watching it, it made me very happy. I feel seeing the struggles of her life, yet she was still able to gain the one thing she always wanted, proved gambari really is important to be successful.
2. When my grandma was diagnosed with cancer, we began to see her slowly fade. It was as if there was no possiblity that she would ever be the woman she was, the mother she was, or the grandmother she was. In this way I could see the Japanese aware in my life. Who she was, was a beauty not fully appreciated until she began to "wilt and wither away."
3. Yes, while the actors an actresses were excellent and spoke English well, the slight accents upon the words drew away from the beauty and actually made them "ugly" so to speak. I found myself more drawn to the undertones of not speaking your native language than the actual beauty within the words.
4. I feel like one event that celebrates Kisetsu in America is the Fourth of July. While, at it's base it is a celebration of the independence of our nation, it also has undertones of celebrating summer with the foods and drinks that accommodate the season. However, if Japanese were to celebrate it they would not be eating hamburgers, corn on the cob, watermelon and such, but rather eel.
5. I feel the whole film past the point where she met the Chairman on the bridge was the exact sense of Otogibanashi. As she said in the last scene, "Every step I have taken since then, was to bring me closer to you." The years and years she suffered with immense patience just really embodies this ideal.
6. Wabi is a simplistic idea of beauty. Finding the simple things in something is what makes it beautiful. Sabi is a beauty found after something is lost to you. The appreciation of the beauty once had but now forever gone. I feel that we appreciate a more complex sense of beauty and we tend to appreciate the beauty we have in the moment rather than delve on the past.
7. Wabi is seen when the chairman looks into Chiyo's eyes and finds the very "plain" look in them to be beautiful. Sabi is seen when Chiyo feels she has lost the chairman, and sees the beauty that he was and believes she will never have again.
8. Hatsumomo probably died on the streets. She was turned away and only had the rags on her person. The relationship between Sayuri and the Chairman is that of a danna, its sort of a night time wife, one you do not show off in a formal setting. I believe she is happy, for she got what she prayed for.
9. Okaasan adopted Sayuri. I feel this sent pumpkin into a wild spiral for she lost the one thing she ever wanted. As she stated in the scene on the island.
10. Gambari is seen throughout the whole movie. The premise of becoming a gaisha is that you have to devote your life to the practice. This is textbook gambari.
11. I loved the movie. I felt the ending was awesome, although I had predicted it as I was watching it, it made me very happy. I feel seeing the struggles of her life, yet she was still able to gain the one thing she always wanted, proved gambari really is important to be successful.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Blog # 9
After Discussion Reflection:
I felt like the discussion went really well. Everyone had very good points to the question that were brought up. I felt like my question went over decently well but could've gone a little better. I felt like my question would've been a bit more thought provoking but I guess how I thought of them and how everyone thought of them was a bit different. However, I was still pleased with the discussions. Really enjoyed being outside, it made it a very fun experience. 10/10 would recommend.
What Does it Mean to be American?
I honestly feel like this question is something that everyone might think about from time to time. However, I know that I feel no connection to this country. I have never had a sense of patriotism and I feel that I could easily leave this country to move to another. But what makes me an American? Well I was born in this country and that is the only thing that I feel makes me American.
Citations:
1. Bigaku
a. "The Japanese aesthetic is very subjective, and there are no absolute criteria as to what this should be. In the West, however, what is beautiful is beautiful in and of itself, so there are explicit and well-established criteria for beauty." Pg. 37
I find it very interesting that the Japanese people are able to find beauty in a more subjective form rather than just a very plain way of looking at art. I feel this definitely reflects into the cultural understanding of ambiguity. However, I cannot accept the statement that the West only values a very defined version of beauty. There have been many very movements within the Western art world that have valued a more abstract approach to the beauty of the art. I would even argue that Japanese style would be too straight forward in comparison to some of the pieces that have become valued as beautiful and insightful pieces of art. However, I personally feel that I would love the Japanese style of art just due to my want to try and think my way through a piece rather than just view and appreciate the skill that was shown in creating a realistic painting.
b. "Today the Japanese language is changing as people express themselves more decisively and directly and sometimes become irritated with vagueness for its own sake." Pg. 38
I think it is both awesome and terrible that the culture is changing within Japan in such a way. On one hand, it is awesome that the culture is able to adapt and evolve in the Modern World, however, on the other it is sad that such an old and well established way of speaking has been thrown out due to Western influences. However, if you look at the world as a whole and the individual countries and populations within, you are able to see that this happens all the time throughout history. Even in our culture, we see that people tend to speak in such a way that many people of older generations would call, "dumbed down" and "concise." With the invention of cell phones, social media, and other such outlets to speak to people, we have become less grammatically correct and it seems our sentences are not fully thought out. So, keeping that in mind, it is easy to understand how the Japanese way of speaking is changing in such a way with the influence of the West always affecting their way of life.
2. Kisetsu
a. "Furthermore, although people eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the year in Japan, they also enjoy eating special dishes that are associated with the seasons. For example, bamboo shoots (takenoko) are a favorite in the spring, eels (unagi) are eaten in the summer, and mackerel(saba) are representative of the autumn season." Pg. 154
It is cool to see that Japan and American culture are very similar in this regard. Just like how they eat their seasonal dishes we tend to do the same thing. Corn, watermelon, hamburgers, and hotdogs are all foods we would eat in the summer. Pumpkin pie and turkey are common dishes in the fall. In the winter you tend to see many sorts of soups and chili. Seeing these similarities really shows how even though we are in completely different parts of the world, we can relate on some very basic levels.
b. "Many people also stay awake far into the night on New Year's Eve with other members of their family to share the joy of having spent the outgoing year in good health, as they listen to shrine or temple bells ringing just before the arrival of the New Year." Pg. 156
Once again it is really cool to see that they value very similar things as we Americans do. The want to stay up and share the outgoing year into the new one is something held in regard to both cultures. The exact way in which this is accomplished is different it seems, however having a similar base allows both cultures to be more open to the other for it creates common ground between the two of them.
3. Otogibanashi
a. "...reflecting the feeling that beautiful women who have an aura of sadness are graceful in a sense. As describes in this story, Japaneses heroines are often tragic figures and have to endure grief." Pg. 173
I feel this is very dangerous within any culture. Since the Japanese culture highly regards their folk tales, to have women portrayed in such a way allows for a sense of control to be established over them by men. A woman "in sadness is graceful" is a very dangerous message to be sending to the younger generation. As we can see within our own culture, messages that are pushed by the media, for example, thin is beautiful, can lead to very bad and in some cases, dangerous situations on a very impressionable youth. I can only hope that these tales are held in regard to more of the cultural history rather than the message that is being portrayed.
b. "there are two reasons why the heroine is a wonderful figure: one is her bravery to marry a poor man; the other is her intelligence in guiding him." Pg. 175
This response also reflects on the last citation. I feel the messages within the folktales to be very conflicting. In the one the idea of being able to endure grief is considered to be a virtue, which I find to be a very bad message to send out to those who are impressionable. On the other it shows a heroine who is held in high regard due to the character traits of bravery and wisdom. One I find slightly misogynistic the other is more feminist. I don't know how to feel about this, however we can see similar events occurring within American culture. If we look at the 1940's for instance, the idea of a very obedient wife was very common, however once way was eminent, this idea of a strong working woman became the face of America. So, within both cultures we can see how two very different ideals, can be held within the same time period.
4. Wabi sabi
a. "People require mental discipline for real understandings of beauty because in this way of thinking, beauty emerges from inside objects." Pg. 228
I couldn't agree more with this statement. I really feel it is important to be able to critically think and analyze something to truly understand a thing, idea or an object. I feel that in American culture this is something lost to the vast majority of people and they tend to just take something as face value. This is a very poor way of viewing the world we live in and it definitely does not allow us to grow as a culture. I feel that this definitely helps in Japanese culture because if this idea is held as a virtue among the people, they have a distinctive advantage in the modern world. Also, within their culture, due to the virtue of ambiguity being held in such high esteem.
b. "Although millions of people continue to learn calligraphy, tea ceremony, and flower arrangements, most do so not to develop their own distinct inner sense of beauty but simply as an imitation of models." Pg. 229
I feel this really shows how much the traditional Japan has changed to more of a modern western culture. With the influence of our culture we have changed what is valued, and while many people are willing to learn that of the past, it is more just a going through the motions kind of thing. We can see very similar occurrences within American culture as well. For instance many people go to church, pray and such not out of a divine spiritual drive, but as a way of imitating those before us. Quite honestly I feel that is the best comparison between the two instances within each culture. I know I have done one thing or another that would fit into this idea of practicing something because it is tradition to do so.
I felt like the discussion went really well. Everyone had very good points to the question that were brought up. I felt like my question went over decently well but could've gone a little better. I felt like my question would've been a bit more thought provoking but I guess how I thought of them and how everyone thought of them was a bit different. However, I was still pleased with the discussions. Really enjoyed being outside, it made it a very fun experience. 10/10 would recommend.
What Does it Mean to be American?
I honestly feel like this question is something that everyone might think about from time to time. However, I know that I feel no connection to this country. I have never had a sense of patriotism and I feel that I could easily leave this country to move to another. But what makes me an American? Well I was born in this country and that is the only thing that I feel makes me American.
Citations:
1. Bigaku
a. "The Japanese aesthetic is very subjective, and there are no absolute criteria as to what this should be. In the West, however, what is beautiful is beautiful in and of itself, so there are explicit and well-established criteria for beauty." Pg. 37
I find it very interesting that the Japanese people are able to find beauty in a more subjective form rather than just a very plain way of looking at art. I feel this definitely reflects into the cultural understanding of ambiguity. However, I cannot accept the statement that the West only values a very defined version of beauty. There have been many very movements within the Western art world that have valued a more abstract approach to the beauty of the art. I would even argue that Japanese style would be too straight forward in comparison to some of the pieces that have become valued as beautiful and insightful pieces of art. However, I personally feel that I would love the Japanese style of art just due to my want to try and think my way through a piece rather than just view and appreciate the skill that was shown in creating a realistic painting.
b. "Today the Japanese language is changing as people express themselves more decisively and directly and sometimes become irritated with vagueness for its own sake." Pg. 38
I think it is both awesome and terrible that the culture is changing within Japan in such a way. On one hand, it is awesome that the culture is able to adapt and evolve in the Modern World, however, on the other it is sad that such an old and well established way of speaking has been thrown out due to Western influences. However, if you look at the world as a whole and the individual countries and populations within, you are able to see that this happens all the time throughout history. Even in our culture, we see that people tend to speak in such a way that many people of older generations would call, "dumbed down" and "concise." With the invention of cell phones, social media, and other such outlets to speak to people, we have become less grammatically correct and it seems our sentences are not fully thought out. So, keeping that in mind, it is easy to understand how the Japanese way of speaking is changing in such a way with the influence of the West always affecting their way of life.
2. Kisetsu
a. "Furthermore, although people eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the year in Japan, they also enjoy eating special dishes that are associated with the seasons. For example, bamboo shoots (takenoko) are a favorite in the spring, eels (unagi) are eaten in the summer, and mackerel(saba) are representative of the autumn season." Pg. 154
It is cool to see that Japan and American culture are very similar in this regard. Just like how they eat their seasonal dishes we tend to do the same thing. Corn, watermelon, hamburgers, and hotdogs are all foods we would eat in the summer. Pumpkin pie and turkey are common dishes in the fall. In the winter you tend to see many sorts of soups and chili. Seeing these similarities really shows how even though we are in completely different parts of the world, we can relate on some very basic levels.
b. "Many people also stay awake far into the night on New Year's Eve with other members of their family to share the joy of having spent the outgoing year in good health, as they listen to shrine or temple bells ringing just before the arrival of the New Year." Pg. 156
Once again it is really cool to see that they value very similar things as we Americans do. The want to stay up and share the outgoing year into the new one is something held in regard to both cultures. The exact way in which this is accomplished is different it seems, however having a similar base allows both cultures to be more open to the other for it creates common ground between the two of them.
3. Otogibanashi
a. "...reflecting the feeling that beautiful women who have an aura of sadness are graceful in a sense. As describes in this story, Japaneses heroines are often tragic figures and have to endure grief." Pg. 173
I feel this is very dangerous within any culture. Since the Japanese culture highly regards their folk tales, to have women portrayed in such a way allows for a sense of control to be established over them by men. A woman "in sadness is graceful" is a very dangerous message to be sending to the younger generation. As we can see within our own culture, messages that are pushed by the media, for example, thin is beautiful, can lead to very bad and in some cases, dangerous situations on a very impressionable youth. I can only hope that these tales are held in regard to more of the cultural history rather than the message that is being portrayed.
b. "there are two reasons why the heroine is a wonderful figure: one is her bravery to marry a poor man; the other is her intelligence in guiding him." Pg. 175
This response also reflects on the last citation. I feel the messages within the folktales to be very conflicting. In the one the idea of being able to endure grief is considered to be a virtue, which I find to be a very bad message to send out to those who are impressionable. On the other it shows a heroine who is held in high regard due to the character traits of bravery and wisdom. One I find slightly misogynistic the other is more feminist. I don't know how to feel about this, however we can see similar events occurring within American culture. If we look at the 1940's for instance, the idea of a very obedient wife was very common, however once way was eminent, this idea of a strong working woman became the face of America. So, within both cultures we can see how two very different ideals, can be held within the same time period.
4. Wabi sabi
a. "People require mental discipline for real understandings of beauty because in this way of thinking, beauty emerges from inside objects." Pg. 228
I couldn't agree more with this statement. I really feel it is important to be able to critically think and analyze something to truly understand a thing, idea or an object. I feel that in American culture this is something lost to the vast majority of people and they tend to just take something as face value. This is a very poor way of viewing the world we live in and it definitely does not allow us to grow as a culture. I feel that this definitely helps in Japanese culture because if this idea is held as a virtue among the people, they have a distinctive advantage in the modern world. Also, within their culture, due to the virtue of ambiguity being held in such high esteem.
b. "Although millions of people continue to learn calligraphy, tea ceremony, and flower arrangements, most do so not to develop their own distinct inner sense of beauty but simply as an imitation of models." Pg. 229
I feel this really shows how much the traditional Japan has changed to more of a modern western culture. With the influence of our culture we have changed what is valued, and while many people are willing to learn that of the past, it is more just a going through the motions kind of thing. We can see very similar occurrences within American culture as well. For instance many people go to church, pray and such not out of a divine spiritual drive, but as a way of imitating those before us. Quite honestly I feel that is the best comparison between the two instances within each culture. I know I have done one thing or another that would fit into this idea of practicing something because it is tradition to do so.
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Blog #8
1. I think they show many ways in which the characters show the Do spirit within themselves. One would be how the baker talked about how he loved his craft of baking. By showing how much he was knowledgeable about it, it really showed how he dedicated himself to his art form and found his harmony in life with it. Another example would how the tank commander would still practice his horse jumping, even though it would not be necessary for combat what-so-ever. The biggest and last example I think you can see throughout the film is how the General really dedicated himself to being an honorable leader and being very knowledgeable about how to best defend against the American advancements.
2. I feel that drinking for the General and his old friend really shows a sense of Najimu. I have always felt that drinking with someone in such a manner shows that you respect the person and can trust them yourself while you are inebriate. Also, when you tend to drink you will tend to talk about more personal things rather than just business, which would also build this sense of Najimu.
3. A very negative effect of Hedataru to Najimu with the sense of "uchi to soto" can be observed by looking at the interaction between the navy leaders and the army ones. They consider each other to be complete separate entities while, as stated by the General very early, they need to work together in order to put up a better stand. It was reflected time and time again throughout the film and it caused a lot of men to die for nothing.
4. The biggest example of the terrible effects of groupism in this film would be the scene where the unit committed a mass suicide with grenades. You could see that many of them did not want to, yet they still did, even while in tears. Even though many of them didn't see the value in killing themselves, they still did it because everyone else was doing it, and they didn't want to be singled out as dishonorable.
5. When they read Sam's mother's letter they really began to see that the Americans were very similar to them. It changed them from very Hedataru to a little bit closer to Najimu than they ever thought an American could be. To put it in other words, they were no longer just soto, they became a little more uchi by hearing that letter. One soldier even stated, my mother said very similar things to me, they seem just the same as us and not these savages I was taught to think they were.
6. I see very many similar ideals for the idea of the way of being a warrior, or Bushido, between both films. Honor is very important, it was spoken of throughout the entirety of the film. With this in mind, it really shows how the war in the Pacific was considered a very hard and bloody endeavor. This need to stay honor caused many Japanese soldiers to fight literally to the last man, even when they were out of food, water, and even ammunition. The want to die honorably and to never surrender really shaped the Japanese defensive and shows why it took so long to win in the Pacific.
7. I feel that there were many examples of Haragei in the war. The first one that comes to mind from the film, would be the fact that the General was never told about the defeat of the Combined Fleet. This showed that the empire wanted to keep its face, even if it screwed over those who were working to defend it. Another example would be the many times that the soldiers did not fight back against there leaders and just went with the flow of things. It kinda showed their want to to "keep face" with their leaders.
8. Saigo and Lieutenant Ito both got captured in the end of it all. However, when you look into them as characters, they seem like complete opposites to end in the same fate. Saigo has a very small sense of patriotism, to him the country's war has only led to him losing his business and separating him from his dear wife. Ito, however, is patriotic to the point where he is willing to kill himself to destroy one of the American tanks. He is willing to sacrifice his body for his Emperor and the glory of his country. I feel that they having differing views really drove me to feel more towards Saigo. Saigo seemed more sane and rationale with his way of thought. However, Ito seemed more blinded by the group thought and his sense of Bushido.
9. The most obvious concept that we learned previously in class would be Bushido. This film being about a more modern version of the warrior class, we can see throughout how those ideals are still stuck within the military. Many times they talked about honor, loyalty to their Emperor and such. It would be very hard to find a scene where at least one aspect or another of Bushido is shown in some way.
10. I really learned a lot from this film. I found it very interesting that the General's idea of how to defend the island was not held in good regards with his subordinates. As we know, Iwo Itta was one of the hardest battles one by the Americans in the Pacific and one of the most influential. The fact that the General was able to do so much in the time he was given is pretty awesome.
2. I feel that drinking for the General and his old friend really shows a sense of Najimu. I have always felt that drinking with someone in such a manner shows that you respect the person and can trust them yourself while you are inebriate. Also, when you tend to drink you will tend to talk about more personal things rather than just business, which would also build this sense of Najimu.
3. A very negative effect of Hedataru to Najimu with the sense of "uchi to soto" can be observed by looking at the interaction between the navy leaders and the army ones. They consider each other to be complete separate entities while, as stated by the General very early, they need to work together in order to put up a better stand. It was reflected time and time again throughout the film and it caused a lot of men to die for nothing.
4. The biggest example of the terrible effects of groupism in this film would be the scene where the unit committed a mass suicide with grenades. You could see that many of them did not want to, yet they still did, even while in tears. Even though many of them didn't see the value in killing themselves, they still did it because everyone else was doing it, and they didn't want to be singled out as dishonorable.
5. When they read Sam's mother's letter they really began to see that the Americans were very similar to them. It changed them from very Hedataru to a little bit closer to Najimu than they ever thought an American could be. To put it in other words, they were no longer just soto, they became a little more uchi by hearing that letter. One soldier even stated, my mother said very similar things to me, they seem just the same as us and not these savages I was taught to think they were.
6. I see very many similar ideals for the idea of the way of being a warrior, or Bushido, between both films. Honor is very important, it was spoken of throughout the entirety of the film. With this in mind, it really shows how the war in the Pacific was considered a very hard and bloody endeavor. This need to stay honor caused many Japanese soldiers to fight literally to the last man, even when they were out of food, water, and even ammunition. The want to die honorably and to never surrender really shaped the Japanese defensive and shows why it took so long to win in the Pacific.
7. I feel that there were many examples of Haragei in the war. The first one that comes to mind from the film, would be the fact that the General was never told about the defeat of the Combined Fleet. This showed that the empire wanted to keep its face, even if it screwed over those who were working to defend it. Another example would be the many times that the soldiers did not fight back against there leaders and just went with the flow of things. It kinda showed their want to to "keep face" with their leaders.
8. Saigo and Lieutenant Ito both got captured in the end of it all. However, when you look into them as characters, they seem like complete opposites to end in the same fate. Saigo has a very small sense of patriotism, to him the country's war has only led to him losing his business and separating him from his dear wife. Ito, however, is patriotic to the point where he is willing to kill himself to destroy one of the American tanks. He is willing to sacrifice his body for his Emperor and the glory of his country. I feel that they having differing views really drove me to feel more towards Saigo. Saigo seemed more sane and rationale with his way of thought. However, Ito seemed more blinded by the group thought and his sense of Bushido.
9. The most obvious concept that we learned previously in class would be Bushido. This film being about a more modern version of the warrior class, we can see throughout how those ideals are still stuck within the military. Many times they talked about honor, loyalty to their Emperor and such. It would be very hard to find a scene where at least one aspect or another of Bushido is shown in some way.
10. I really learned a lot from this film. I found it very interesting that the General's idea of how to defend the island was not held in good regards with his subordinates. As we know, Iwo Itta was one of the hardest battles one by the Americans in the Pacific and one of the most influential. The fact that the General was able to do so much in the time he was given is pretty awesome.
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Blog #7
After Discussion Reflection:
I feel that the discussion went very well. There were many different opinions being shared and I feel that is always a very positive thing when looking at an in class discussion. One thing that sticks out to me was the discussion on the different thoughts on how the ending of the movie went. To many they saw it as a very sad ending, however I feel that the ending was perfect and despite the gore, a very happy ending. Magoza, by committing sepuku, finally felt like he was in his place in the world. He had fulfilled his obligations to his leader and finally could have an honorable death, that he was denied many, many years ago. I feel if you take this into account, the ending becomes a bit happier.
Hedataru to Najimu:
a) "According to Hall (1970, pp 169-170), 90 centimeters is the limit for physically controlling others, or the distance from which one can maintain personal negotiations. Therefore, sanjyaku is the most appropriate distance for master-subordinate relationships. SImilarlyk, to step on one's shadow indicates and infringement of one's personal space. For example, Japanese dhildren often enjoy playing a game called kage-fumi 9i.e., stepping on one another's shadows)..." pg 110
I find this concept to be very interesting. I know that in American culture compared to European culture we are considered to have a much larger personal space bubble. The fact that there is a culture that has even a wider range of well established personal space is very fascinating. While once you look into the reasoning behind why this came to be, it starts to become very clear, the idea still is a little bizarre. It seems to come up again and again that old traditions in Japanese culture seem to die very hard, while in American culture we seem to be a little more fluid with our way of life.
b) "There was an important convention in Japan that only disappeared recently whereby women were supposed to show their obedience to their husbands by walking a certain distance behind them. This practice may seem archaic to many Japanese today, but Americans who visited Japan right after the war were known to have commented on this custom." pg 110
This idea of showing your love and obedience to your husband by walking a distance behind your husband seems very strange to me. In America, if there is any equivalent to this in anyway, walking with your husband or partner side by side would be considered as more of a sign of love and devotion. However, it's not held the same equivalence as being obedient in a sense but rather just showing you care about your partner and want to be near them. This show others that you and your partner are close. I honestly can't see why this practice would have any practical use, and it seems modern Japan is showing similar feelings, since this is a "archaic practice."
Shudan Ishiki:
a) "These three categories, two uchi and one soto, are said to be formed by one's twenties and seldom change. The Japanese strongly distinguish uchi from soto and are said to be poor at getting along with those who are soto." pg 196
I feel that this would never be the case in an American culture. I remember once hearing that you never can look into the future and love the same people, things, or ideas. We are a culture where we are always expanding our views and the people we interact with. I know for a fact that the people that I would've considered my "uchi" are definitely not the same to this day and some would even go under the category of "soto." However, looking into the idea that many Japanese have this very ingrained idea of group think and the need to establish those groups at an early age, just when you are coming into the world as an adult makes sense.
b) "There is no doubt that the harmony of a group is vitally important in Japanese society. People often think and behave as a group, and what benefits the group is mostly regarded as the correct thing to do." pg 196
I feel this way of thinking can be very dangerous. Most Americans would classify this as a almost cult way of life and can lead to very bad situations. The book itself goes on to talk about how this has at times been very instrumental in some of the most notorious downfalls of the Japanese people. One that comes to mind for me would be the Rape of Nanjing, which has a horrific event that can definitely be attributed to this way of thinking. However, it has also led to the ability of Japan to become such an economic and industrial power in the modern world. It is very interesting to see how this has played out through the years.
The Do Spirit of Japan:
a) "Then there are patterns or forms to follow, practice is repetitive, and moves must be repeated thousands of times and perfected before new techniques may be learned. The purpose of such discipline is not only to learn new skills but also to build good character and a sense of harmony in the disciple." pg 76
I know that I would never be able to follow such devotion and time into learning an art. I feel that we as Americans want to learn the next step after we have an idea of the beginning in order to help us understand the whole concept holistically. I would be very impatient with this concept of learning, but then again I guess it would help with building a better character. Understanding this definitely gives me more insight into Jiro and his ways of practicing teaching his subordinates on how to make sushi. Overall, it allows us to understand the Japanese way of teaching in a better sense.
b) "Teaching is kept simple, inflexible, and strictly controlled, and involves imitating the movements of a master rather than a detailed and analytical verbal explanations.
This is very different than the teaching styles in the United States. Our system seems more of a give general over-site and allow the students to learn themselves. This, in my opinion, allows you to better understand what you are doing, and if you are making mistakes what exactly you can do to better yourself. I feel that you don't really learn by just watching and repeating what is being said. However, I can see how this would play into the Japanese culture of group think, for it doesn't allow for original thought but one more what is already established.
Haragei:
a) "Thus, people depend on the sensitivity of others to understand the real messages in social interactions. The Japanese also count on the passing of time to help resolve problems in communication." pg 104
I feel like I would go insane under such a system. I like things to be very black and white and I hate having to try and understand if someone is trying to convey a different message. I think this can be seen in American culture when you look at relationships between couples. A partner may say one thing but be trying to convey a whole entire message. I know that I go crazy in such situations and I can't imagine having to deal with that with every single interaction. Once again, this goes into the idea of Japanese people trying very hard to keep harmony within a group by not being straightforward.
b) "In a high-context culture, like that of Japan, people tend not to ask many questions and value silence. they are patient with regard to vagueness. On the contrary, in low_context cultures, such as those of the West, people often ask question to try to make everything clear, because they are less tolerant about ambiguous situations." pg 105
I completely agree with the second part of this citation. We in the West definitely value directness over this idea of ambiguity. I know personally, as I stated before, that I like things to be black and white, and have no doubt on what is being stated towards me. Also, as stated before, I can see why this is valued in Japanese culture, in order to keep harmony within the group. I feel that this analytical outlook on the two cultures definitely allows me to have a better understanding into the differences in communication between those under such pretexts.
I feel that the discussion went very well. There were many different opinions being shared and I feel that is always a very positive thing when looking at an in class discussion. One thing that sticks out to me was the discussion on the different thoughts on how the ending of the movie went. To many they saw it as a very sad ending, however I feel that the ending was perfect and despite the gore, a very happy ending. Magoza, by committing sepuku, finally felt like he was in his place in the world. He had fulfilled his obligations to his leader and finally could have an honorable death, that he was denied many, many years ago. I feel if you take this into account, the ending becomes a bit happier.
Hedataru to Najimu:
a) "According to Hall (1970, pp 169-170), 90 centimeters is the limit for physically controlling others, or the distance from which one can maintain personal negotiations. Therefore, sanjyaku is the most appropriate distance for master-subordinate relationships. SImilarlyk, to step on one's shadow indicates and infringement of one's personal space. For example, Japanese dhildren often enjoy playing a game called kage-fumi 9i.e., stepping on one another's shadows)..." pg 110
I find this concept to be very interesting. I know that in American culture compared to European culture we are considered to have a much larger personal space bubble. The fact that there is a culture that has even a wider range of well established personal space is very fascinating. While once you look into the reasoning behind why this came to be, it starts to become very clear, the idea still is a little bizarre. It seems to come up again and again that old traditions in Japanese culture seem to die very hard, while in American culture we seem to be a little more fluid with our way of life.
b) "There was an important convention in Japan that only disappeared recently whereby women were supposed to show their obedience to their husbands by walking a certain distance behind them. This practice may seem archaic to many Japanese today, but Americans who visited Japan right after the war were known to have commented on this custom." pg 110
This idea of showing your love and obedience to your husband by walking a distance behind your husband seems very strange to me. In America, if there is any equivalent to this in anyway, walking with your husband or partner side by side would be considered as more of a sign of love and devotion. However, it's not held the same equivalence as being obedient in a sense but rather just showing you care about your partner and want to be near them. This show others that you and your partner are close. I honestly can't see why this practice would have any practical use, and it seems modern Japan is showing similar feelings, since this is a "archaic practice."
Shudan Ishiki:
a) "These three categories, two uchi and one soto, are said to be formed by one's twenties and seldom change. The Japanese strongly distinguish uchi from soto and are said to be poor at getting along with those who are soto." pg 196
I feel that this would never be the case in an American culture. I remember once hearing that you never can look into the future and love the same people, things, or ideas. We are a culture where we are always expanding our views and the people we interact with. I know for a fact that the people that I would've considered my "uchi" are definitely not the same to this day and some would even go under the category of "soto." However, looking into the idea that many Japanese have this very ingrained idea of group think and the need to establish those groups at an early age, just when you are coming into the world as an adult makes sense.
b) "There is no doubt that the harmony of a group is vitally important in Japanese society. People often think and behave as a group, and what benefits the group is mostly regarded as the correct thing to do." pg 196
I feel this way of thinking can be very dangerous. Most Americans would classify this as a almost cult way of life and can lead to very bad situations. The book itself goes on to talk about how this has at times been very instrumental in some of the most notorious downfalls of the Japanese people. One that comes to mind for me would be the Rape of Nanjing, which has a horrific event that can definitely be attributed to this way of thinking. However, it has also led to the ability of Japan to become such an economic and industrial power in the modern world. It is very interesting to see how this has played out through the years.
The Do Spirit of Japan:
a) "Then there are patterns or forms to follow, practice is repetitive, and moves must be repeated thousands of times and perfected before new techniques may be learned. The purpose of such discipline is not only to learn new skills but also to build good character and a sense of harmony in the disciple." pg 76
I know that I would never be able to follow such devotion and time into learning an art. I feel that we as Americans want to learn the next step after we have an idea of the beginning in order to help us understand the whole concept holistically. I would be very impatient with this concept of learning, but then again I guess it would help with building a better character. Understanding this definitely gives me more insight into Jiro and his ways of practicing teaching his subordinates on how to make sushi. Overall, it allows us to understand the Japanese way of teaching in a better sense.
b) "Teaching is kept simple, inflexible, and strictly controlled, and involves imitating the movements of a master rather than a detailed and analytical verbal explanations.
This is very different than the teaching styles in the United States. Our system seems more of a give general over-site and allow the students to learn themselves. This, in my opinion, allows you to better understand what you are doing, and if you are making mistakes what exactly you can do to better yourself. I feel that you don't really learn by just watching and repeating what is being said. However, I can see how this would play into the Japanese culture of group think, for it doesn't allow for original thought but one more what is already established.
Haragei:
a) "Thus, people depend on the sensitivity of others to understand the real messages in social interactions. The Japanese also count on the passing of time to help resolve problems in communication." pg 104
I feel like I would go insane under such a system. I like things to be very black and white and I hate having to try and understand if someone is trying to convey a different message. I think this can be seen in American culture when you look at relationships between couples. A partner may say one thing but be trying to convey a whole entire message. I know that I go crazy in such situations and I can't imagine having to deal with that with every single interaction. Once again, this goes into the idea of Japanese people trying very hard to keep harmony within a group by not being straightforward.
b) "In a high-context culture, like that of Japan, people tend not to ask many questions and value silence. they are patient with regard to vagueness. On the contrary, in low_context cultures, such as those of the West, people often ask question to try to make everything clear, because they are less tolerant about ambiguous situations." pg 105
I completely agree with the second part of this citation. We in the West definitely value directness over this idea of ambiguity. I know personally, as I stated before, that I like things to be black and white, and have no doubt on what is being stated towards me. Also, as stated before, I can see why this is valued in Japanese culture, in order to keep harmony within the group. I feel that this analytical outlook on the two cultures definitely allows me to have a better understanding into the differences in communication between those under such pretexts.
Blog #6
1. Magoza showed Bushido in many ways. When he talked about how the way of the warrior is to not have feelings, this reflected the teachings of Bushido. At the early times of Bushido, Zen Buddhism had a very large impact on the belief. It taught that you must have control of the mind, to be calm at all times. This would include the desire to want, or miss someone. It would be dishonorable if he did not have complete control of these feelings, so by stating that he did not he showed his Bushido. Another instance where he showed Bushido, was the fact that he didn't tell his oldest and dearest friend why he left the night of the raid. This showed his loyalty to his lord, for he was given a command and he carried it out to the letter despite his owns wants.
2. Obligation means an act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment. Giri is more of a self-sacrificing devotion in order to keep harmony. They are similar yet not the same. Obligation is more of a personal thing towards something or someone. Giri seems to be more of a cutural understanding that you are required no matter what to fulfill an act or the need to give something back to someone.
3. While their are some similarities between Bushido and Girri, they are two separate entities. Bushido is the way of the warrior. It only can be implied to those of the warrior class. An example of pure Bushido would be when Kichiemon went out to all the families at the beginning of the movie and gave money to the families of the dead warriors. This was a sense of the lord paying back the dead warriors for their acts of valor. It also was Bushido because Kichiemon did not rest until after the last family was given their monetary gift. Girri is more of a concept that can be applied to all people, including the warrior class. It is more of a self-sacrifice to perform a social obligation. An example of this can be seen when Kane makes a robe for Magoza for all his time and devotion he has put into raising her.
4. There are many scenes that show the Japanese ie system. One would be when the father of the merchant family is the one that makes the decision on whether or not this Kane is a suitable match for his son. In the end, even though his son finds her very attractive, it was known that his father had all the say in whether or not she would marry his son. Another scene that showed this system was when Magoza came to sell his wares to the merchant, and while the son was present, in the end it was his father that he had to go see in order to sell the vase.
5. There are many conflicts that appear between Magoza and Kane under the ie system. The best example of this conflict is during the dinner scene where Magoza and Kane had a power shift over where Magoza was to eat. While he was the equivalent of the father and therefore the head of the household, Kane was still, while she didn't know, the head of the household that Magoza was pledged to serve his whole life to. This created an interesting scene where we could visibly see a power shift between the two characters within the movie.
6. I feel that in American culture, women are treated better than men within a family. Women are told to be precious flowers that we have to love and respect, and their is no debating that idea. There has been many times where my sister was given a better treatment within my family solely because she is a girl, despite the fact I am only 1 year older than she is. Also, I can't even count all the times I have been told by peers, my parents, my grandparents, and even complete strangers that you must treat women with respect and practically put them up on a pedestal. Overall, while some would disagree, I feel women are treated better in a relationship and are given the benefit of the doubt more often then men.
7. Magoza's wish as the head of the house was to follow his Bushido and to complete the task that was set before him by his commander. He wanted to make sure that Kane had a suitable marriage and that she would be happy in the marriage that she would be in. However, Kane had the wish to marry Magoza which wasn't going to fulfill all of the commands set before Magoza, for he wouldn't be a suitable match. I would say that Magoza did not ignore her wishes at any time, if he were to ignore them, he would have made the match the second the merchant father had set upon him to find Kane. He waited until the omiai was accepted by Kane, rather than just throwing her into it.
8. I feel that the ending of this story will be a love suicide by both Kane and Magoza. It has been forshadowed many times within the play in the movie. Since this love would be considered dishonorable in some way, for Magoza didn't follow his commands by marrying her. This would follow the concept of Bushido where people "are driven to commit suicie when they want to clear an unsavory reputation or when they want to apologize for their sins or mistakes."
9. I think they use the concepts of Kenkyo and Amae very effectively within the film. Magoza is the very definition of Kenkyo in my opinion. Everything he does is an act of modesty and he really never takes praise and jsut pushes it under the rug like it was nothing. Amae can definitely be seen in the relationship between Kane and Magoza. Kane needs Magoza to feel happy, and in turn Magoza needs Kane. It is very easy to see this "need of benevolence" between the two characters throughout the film.
10. I feel like this film is very interesting overall. It seems to really show how important Bushido was and still is the the Japanese people today. However, I find many aspects very strange and even annoying. The best example of this that I can give is the Japanese play, I do not understand how anyone in any time of history could ever consider that art form good. However, different strokes for different boats.
* Why eww?
I feel that the this want for a romantic relationship with someone who she could consider her father is very gross. I feel that in American culture, the want or desire to have a romantic relationship with a parent or parental figure is considered very taboo. It is ingrained into our social structure that that desire is very wrong and should be shunned. That's why I feel I was saying ewww.
2. Obligation means an act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment. Giri is more of a self-sacrificing devotion in order to keep harmony. They are similar yet not the same. Obligation is more of a personal thing towards something or someone. Giri seems to be more of a cutural understanding that you are required no matter what to fulfill an act or the need to give something back to someone.
3. While their are some similarities between Bushido and Girri, they are two separate entities. Bushido is the way of the warrior. It only can be implied to those of the warrior class. An example of pure Bushido would be when Kichiemon went out to all the families at the beginning of the movie and gave money to the families of the dead warriors. This was a sense of the lord paying back the dead warriors for their acts of valor. It also was Bushido because Kichiemon did not rest until after the last family was given their monetary gift. Girri is more of a concept that can be applied to all people, including the warrior class. It is more of a self-sacrifice to perform a social obligation. An example of this can be seen when Kane makes a robe for Magoza for all his time and devotion he has put into raising her.
4. There are many scenes that show the Japanese ie system. One would be when the father of the merchant family is the one that makes the decision on whether or not this Kane is a suitable match for his son. In the end, even though his son finds her very attractive, it was known that his father had all the say in whether or not she would marry his son. Another scene that showed this system was when Magoza came to sell his wares to the merchant, and while the son was present, in the end it was his father that he had to go see in order to sell the vase.
5. There are many conflicts that appear between Magoza and Kane under the ie system. The best example of this conflict is during the dinner scene where Magoza and Kane had a power shift over where Magoza was to eat. While he was the equivalent of the father and therefore the head of the household, Kane was still, while she didn't know, the head of the household that Magoza was pledged to serve his whole life to. This created an interesting scene where we could visibly see a power shift between the two characters within the movie.
6. I feel that in American culture, women are treated better than men within a family. Women are told to be precious flowers that we have to love and respect, and their is no debating that idea. There has been many times where my sister was given a better treatment within my family solely because she is a girl, despite the fact I am only 1 year older than she is. Also, I can't even count all the times I have been told by peers, my parents, my grandparents, and even complete strangers that you must treat women with respect and practically put them up on a pedestal. Overall, while some would disagree, I feel women are treated better in a relationship and are given the benefit of the doubt more often then men.
7. Magoza's wish as the head of the house was to follow his Bushido and to complete the task that was set before him by his commander. He wanted to make sure that Kane had a suitable marriage and that she would be happy in the marriage that she would be in. However, Kane had the wish to marry Magoza which wasn't going to fulfill all of the commands set before Magoza, for he wouldn't be a suitable match. I would say that Magoza did not ignore her wishes at any time, if he were to ignore them, he would have made the match the second the merchant father had set upon him to find Kane. He waited until the omiai was accepted by Kane, rather than just throwing her into it.
8. I feel that the ending of this story will be a love suicide by both Kane and Magoza. It has been forshadowed many times within the play in the movie. Since this love would be considered dishonorable in some way, for Magoza didn't follow his commands by marrying her. This would follow the concept of Bushido where people "are driven to commit suicie when they want to clear an unsavory reputation or when they want to apologize for their sins or mistakes."
9. I think they use the concepts of Kenkyo and Amae very effectively within the film. Magoza is the very definition of Kenkyo in my opinion. Everything he does is an act of modesty and he really never takes praise and jsut pushes it under the rug like it was nothing. Amae can definitely be seen in the relationship between Kane and Magoza. Kane needs Magoza to feel happy, and in turn Magoza needs Kane. It is very easy to see this "need of benevolence" between the two characters throughout the film.
10. I feel like this film is very interesting overall. It seems to really show how important Bushido was and still is the the Japanese people today. However, I find many aspects very strange and even annoying. The best example of this that I can give is the Japanese play, I do not understand how anyone in any time of history could ever consider that art form good. However, different strokes for different boats.
* Why eww?
I feel that the this want for a romantic relationship with someone who she could consider her father is very gross. I feel that in American culture, the want or desire to have a romantic relationship with a parent or parental figure is considered very taboo. It is ingrained into our social structure that that desire is very wrong and should be shunned. That's why I feel I was saying ewww.
Blog #5
After Discussion Reflection:
I felt this discussion was overall good, I didn't agree with everything that was said, however I definitely enjoy being challenged and seeing a different opinion to an idea I have. I feel like I was a little out of it because I wasn't feeling well but that is the life of a student.
Bushido:
a) "Thus, the spiritual elements of bushido come from Zen Buddhism, and Zen religious practices were used by samurai to train physically and mentally. They acquired skill in improving their military acts in a way that kept the mind calm, whatever happened, through Zen." pg 43
I found this very interesting. I never would have guessed that Zen Buddhism would be the backbone of such a famous force of military power. The idea of committing yourself to this way of thinking and life would not sit well with most Americans. I feel that we, at least my generation, overall do not devote ourselves so much to our ways of life. We are, in general, a generation that looks for an easier way to achieve our goals, and would not put in the time in order to reach such a highly developed way of living. However, this does give me more insight into how the samurais were as powerful and skilled as they were to be told.
b) "Moreover, in modern times, some Japanese are driven to commit suicide when they want to clear an unsavory reputation or when they want to apologize for their sins or mistakes in their company or family. The Japanese people tend to accept and even glorify these kinds of suicides and feel sympathy for the victims..." pg 48
I have to say I find this quite appalling. I have always been taught life is precious. No matter what the world throws at you, if you are able to get through it, you will come out a stronger and wiser person. This idea that it is "accepted and glorified" is very shocking to me and I would even say dangerous. I know that many other Americans, especially teens who are growing up in a world of confusion due to hormones, peer pressure, etc, would state just the same thing. I honestly think this shows us why Japan's teenage suicide rate is so high. Out of the many aspects of bushido,this one, in my opinion, is the worst to still remain in a modern society.
Giri:
a) "if you receive a present from someone, you should return something which is of equal value" pg 97
I feel that this is not the same in the United States. While we would like to try and be giving gifts close to the same value as those who we are receiving them from, it is not always the case with people. There have been many times when I have given a gift to someone out of the sheer want to give a gift and see them enjoy it. However, I do not always expect a gift in return. There's a saying in the United States, "it's the thought that counts." This really does apply to our general way of thinking about giving and receiving gifts. Also, I feel that we appreciate gifts that are sentimental rather than by the price-tag and this concept can make it hard to give a gift of "equal value." I can see why this applies in Japanese culture, since it has been ingrained into their ways of life for many, many years; however, I do not see it being exactly equivalent in American culture.
b) "Chinese religious ritual was thus transformed into a custom of gift exchange in Japan..." pg 98
I picked this quote because it reminded me of the Western holiday known as Christmas. I found it funny that two separate cultures can come to the same end means of taking a religious holiday and turning it into a way of giving gifts. I feel that most Americans could understand this idea of giving gifts on a holiday but maybe not to the extent that they do it. We do it not really out of obligation most of the time but out of the want to "bless" someone with a gift. However, it seems in Japan it is practically mandatory for them to do so. Overall though, I feel it is really cool to see that Japanese culture and Western culture can develop very similarly, it definitely shows we are not that all different.
The Japanese ie System:
a) "...the Japanese adoption system had two main goals: (I) to obtain an heir to succeed to the ownership of the land and property, and (II) to ensure the performance of proper rites for the sake of the family's ancestors." pg 121
I find this system for adoption very peculiar. Adoption, within our culture, has always been a way for families to provide care for a child that has lost his/her parents in one way or another. While, at times, it has been a way for people who are unable to to have their own kids, this basis of adoption can still be applied. It seems very foreign to me to want to adopt someone for the sole purpose of continuing the family line and making sure your ancestors are properly worshiped and such. However, once you understand how important these are to the people of Japan, it is easy to see how this system came to be. It really reflects how important the family name is and the deepness of their religious customs.
b) "On the other hand, women still tend to avoid eldest sons when they marry, because the eldest son has to take care of his parents in the ie system." pg 124
I never thought that this could be a thing in a modern day super power. For me, I know that I will marry the person I love, no matter what their family obligations are. I feel that in America, we value the connection with a person over their family ties. Also, we don't really have a system for who has to take care of our parents. It feels like in our culture, if there is any sort of obligation to do so, it seems to be more divided equally among all the children rather than just the eldest son. However, once again, the fact that this is still a factor in Japanese life, this allows us to see how much their culture is based on traditional values that date way back. I feel that seeing this allows us to better understand the Japanese way of life.
Omiai:
a) "The wishes of the people who were getting married were most often ignored, and sometimes the couple did not even meet each other until the day of their wedding." pg 166
I feel that I could never go through such a marriage. To me, marriage has always been the ultimate way to show that you have love and affection for a person. It is one of the biggest things you can do to show your devotion to someone by getting married. Under a system of an arranged marriage, I would feel that this would not be so. However, I can see the reasoning behind it and I feel most Americans could see it as well. That being said, I do not feel many Americans would feel okay with such an arrangement because there is a very individualized outlook on life and this would be too "controlling and suppressing" for the average American. This really shows how important the ie system was in Japan, even though it didn't stem from that but rather was solidified by it. Overall, I do not feel I could ever be apart of such an arrangement, but I can see why it has been so and continues to be in modern day Japan.
b) "People do not have to suffer many of the negative consequences of dating, such as finding opportunities to meet others or suffering face-to-face rejection. Japanese people are often very busy and do not have the time or energy to meet and date a variety of prospective partners, so omiai provides a means of overcoming this obstacle." pg 167
I can completely understand this reasoning on why this practice is still in use today. We all know what it is like to go through the dating system and to put it short and sweet, it's a bitch. Heartbreak can definitely be one of the worst things to experience and I can understand the want to avoid this. Every American honestly could probably agree that they would rather just find the person that they love their first try and never have to suffer through the trials that is the single life. However, part of getting to know someone is going through the time to go out on dates, to show that you are willing to make time for a person, so that in the future you will have to time to be there when you are needed. So I do have some reserves on this reasoning. However, understanding that the Japanese value their work, I can see why such a train of thought could be accepted by the populous. The more time they can devote to their work, the better.
I felt this discussion was overall good, I didn't agree with everything that was said, however I definitely enjoy being challenged and seeing a different opinion to an idea I have. I feel like I was a little out of it because I wasn't feeling well but that is the life of a student.
Bushido:
a) "Thus, the spiritual elements of bushido come from Zen Buddhism, and Zen religious practices were used by samurai to train physically and mentally. They acquired skill in improving their military acts in a way that kept the mind calm, whatever happened, through Zen." pg 43
I found this very interesting. I never would have guessed that Zen Buddhism would be the backbone of such a famous force of military power. The idea of committing yourself to this way of thinking and life would not sit well with most Americans. I feel that we, at least my generation, overall do not devote ourselves so much to our ways of life. We are, in general, a generation that looks for an easier way to achieve our goals, and would not put in the time in order to reach such a highly developed way of living. However, this does give me more insight into how the samurais were as powerful and skilled as they were to be told.
b) "Moreover, in modern times, some Japanese are driven to commit suicide when they want to clear an unsavory reputation or when they want to apologize for their sins or mistakes in their company or family. The Japanese people tend to accept and even glorify these kinds of suicides and feel sympathy for the victims..." pg 48
I have to say I find this quite appalling. I have always been taught life is precious. No matter what the world throws at you, if you are able to get through it, you will come out a stronger and wiser person. This idea that it is "accepted and glorified" is very shocking to me and I would even say dangerous. I know that many other Americans, especially teens who are growing up in a world of confusion due to hormones, peer pressure, etc, would state just the same thing. I honestly think this shows us why Japan's teenage suicide rate is so high. Out of the many aspects of bushido,this one, in my opinion, is the worst to still remain in a modern society.
Giri:
a) "if you receive a present from someone, you should return something which is of equal value" pg 97
I feel that this is not the same in the United States. While we would like to try and be giving gifts close to the same value as those who we are receiving them from, it is not always the case with people. There have been many times when I have given a gift to someone out of the sheer want to give a gift and see them enjoy it. However, I do not always expect a gift in return. There's a saying in the United States, "it's the thought that counts." This really does apply to our general way of thinking about giving and receiving gifts. Also, I feel that we appreciate gifts that are sentimental rather than by the price-tag and this concept can make it hard to give a gift of "equal value." I can see why this applies in Japanese culture, since it has been ingrained into their ways of life for many, many years; however, I do not see it being exactly equivalent in American culture.
b) "Chinese religious ritual was thus transformed into a custom of gift exchange in Japan..." pg 98
I picked this quote because it reminded me of the Western holiday known as Christmas. I found it funny that two separate cultures can come to the same end means of taking a religious holiday and turning it into a way of giving gifts. I feel that most Americans could understand this idea of giving gifts on a holiday but maybe not to the extent that they do it. We do it not really out of obligation most of the time but out of the want to "bless" someone with a gift. However, it seems in Japan it is practically mandatory for them to do so. Overall though, I feel it is really cool to see that Japanese culture and Western culture can develop very similarly, it definitely shows we are not that all different.
The Japanese ie System:
a) "...the Japanese adoption system had two main goals: (I) to obtain an heir to succeed to the ownership of the land and property, and (II) to ensure the performance of proper rites for the sake of the family's ancestors." pg 121
I find this system for adoption very peculiar. Adoption, within our culture, has always been a way for families to provide care for a child that has lost his/her parents in one way or another. While, at times, it has been a way for people who are unable to to have their own kids, this basis of adoption can still be applied. It seems very foreign to me to want to adopt someone for the sole purpose of continuing the family line and making sure your ancestors are properly worshiped and such. However, once you understand how important these are to the people of Japan, it is easy to see how this system came to be. It really reflects how important the family name is and the deepness of their religious customs.
b) "On the other hand, women still tend to avoid eldest sons when they marry, because the eldest son has to take care of his parents in the ie system." pg 124
I never thought that this could be a thing in a modern day super power. For me, I know that I will marry the person I love, no matter what their family obligations are. I feel that in America, we value the connection with a person over their family ties. Also, we don't really have a system for who has to take care of our parents. It feels like in our culture, if there is any sort of obligation to do so, it seems to be more divided equally among all the children rather than just the eldest son. However, once again, the fact that this is still a factor in Japanese life, this allows us to see how much their culture is based on traditional values that date way back. I feel that seeing this allows us to better understand the Japanese way of life.
Omiai:
a) "The wishes of the people who were getting married were most often ignored, and sometimes the couple did not even meet each other until the day of their wedding." pg 166
I feel that I could never go through such a marriage. To me, marriage has always been the ultimate way to show that you have love and affection for a person. It is one of the biggest things you can do to show your devotion to someone by getting married. Under a system of an arranged marriage, I would feel that this would not be so. However, I can see the reasoning behind it and I feel most Americans could see it as well. That being said, I do not feel many Americans would feel okay with such an arrangement because there is a very individualized outlook on life and this would be too "controlling and suppressing" for the average American. This really shows how important the ie system was in Japan, even though it didn't stem from that but rather was solidified by it. Overall, I do not feel I could ever be apart of such an arrangement, but I can see why it has been so and continues to be in modern day Japan.
b) "People do not have to suffer many of the negative consequences of dating, such as finding opportunities to meet others or suffering face-to-face rejection. Japanese people are often very busy and do not have the time or energy to meet and date a variety of prospective partners, so omiai provides a means of overcoming this obstacle." pg 167
I can completely understand this reasoning on why this practice is still in use today. We all know what it is like to go through the dating system and to put it short and sweet, it's a bitch. Heartbreak can definitely be one of the worst things to experience and I can understand the want to avoid this. Every American honestly could probably agree that they would rather just find the person that they love their first try and never have to suffer through the trials that is the single life. However, part of getting to know someone is going through the time to go out on dates, to show that you are willing to make time for a person, so that in the future you will have to time to be there when you are needed. So I do have some reserves on this reasoning. However, understanding that the Japanese value their work, I can see why such a train of thought could be accepted by the populous. The more time they can devote to their work, the better.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Blog #4
1. Jiro has always taken a very strict approach to his job, and he tries to instill this into both of his sons. He stated near the end of the movie that he was even harder on them during there apprenticeship, not to be mean, but to help instill the necessary dedication and work ethic they will need in order to be successful in the years to come.
2. I do not believe that Yoshikazu will ever be able to exceed Jiro's Gambari and him as a chef. While he has the benefit of having the teaching of his father's practice at an earlier age, he is of a younger generation and while he is still very hard working for his age, his youth shows through in small ways. For instance, his obsession with having very fast cars just shows some of his youth and I think it will be detrimental towards his ability to ever exceed his father. Also, because he was handed a well owned business rather than working it from the ground up, he will not be looked at as dedicated as his father and in turn will not do as well.
3. There were many scenes throughout the movie that showed Kenkyo. The most prominent one I remember was when Takashi was talking about his restaurant, while it serves the same product of his father's, will always be inferior and therefore must be sold at a lower price. Even though the quality is practically the same, Takashi humbles himself by saying he is not as worthy of his father for the pricing of the sushi.
4. I feel that Jiro is only important as a "figure head." He was the famous entrepreneur that started the business, and by having his years of dedication and hard work to back up the product, it gives it a more substantial ground to sell it at the price that it is. However, Yoshikazu is just as capable but to the public he has to be humbled because he is "not" his father.
5. Amae is present between the father and the son. There were many times when they were being interviewed by the producers and they showed their love for each other by joking around. Jiro, while he was a bit harder on him, lets him know that he did it only so he could excel in life. I think this shows more amae than enryo, while I can see why it could be argued the other way.
6. I think that Yoshikazu has very different Honne and Tatemae. I feel that he would want his father to retire so that he could take up the torch and move on and prove that he is capable of running the restaurant without his father being present. However, because it is more respectable that his father wants to keep working on till essentially the day he dies, he has a very different public view.
7. I feel that Gambari would actually never work in the U.S. It is too ingrained into our society that we deserve to have time to rest. Some examples of this can be seen through the tradition of sports such as baseball, the five day work week, and vacation time. So overall I see having this way of thinking being a big disadvantage, however I could see the advantage of it by instilling motivation in the younger generation. It seems that each generation seems to get lazier and lazier, so having this could definitely help with that.
8. "Once you decide on your occupation... you must immerse yourself in your work. You have to fall in love with your work. Never complain about your job. You must dedicate your life to mastering your skill. That's the secret of success... and is the key to being regarded honorably." -Jiro
I chose this quote because it shows the extent of his belief towards Gambari. It hits all aspects that he believes shows the amount of time and dedication it takes in order to be successful.
9. I feel that the hardest one to understand is Kenkyo. While I do believe modesty is a virtue, the extent that they go to to hold up this ideal is way to much in my opinion. If it gets to the point where it is more polite to tear yourself down, I feel that it is too much and I feel that many Americans would actually look at that as a lack in self-confidence. I know personally that when someone "humbles" themselves to the point where I feel they are just tearing themselves down, it angers me more than if they had been a braggart about it. I feel that the idea of a lack of believe in yourself is terrible and I hate it when people I know do that to themselves.
2. I do not believe that Yoshikazu will ever be able to exceed Jiro's Gambari and him as a chef. While he has the benefit of having the teaching of his father's practice at an earlier age, he is of a younger generation and while he is still very hard working for his age, his youth shows through in small ways. For instance, his obsession with having very fast cars just shows some of his youth and I think it will be detrimental towards his ability to ever exceed his father. Also, because he was handed a well owned business rather than working it from the ground up, he will not be looked at as dedicated as his father and in turn will not do as well.
3. There were many scenes throughout the movie that showed Kenkyo. The most prominent one I remember was when Takashi was talking about his restaurant, while it serves the same product of his father's, will always be inferior and therefore must be sold at a lower price. Even though the quality is practically the same, Takashi humbles himself by saying he is not as worthy of his father for the pricing of the sushi.
4. I feel that Jiro is only important as a "figure head." He was the famous entrepreneur that started the business, and by having his years of dedication and hard work to back up the product, it gives it a more substantial ground to sell it at the price that it is. However, Yoshikazu is just as capable but to the public he has to be humbled because he is "not" his father.
5. Amae is present between the father and the son. There were many times when they were being interviewed by the producers and they showed their love for each other by joking around. Jiro, while he was a bit harder on him, lets him know that he did it only so he could excel in life. I think this shows more amae than enryo, while I can see why it could be argued the other way.
6. I think that Yoshikazu has very different Honne and Tatemae. I feel that he would want his father to retire so that he could take up the torch and move on and prove that he is capable of running the restaurant without his father being present. However, because it is more respectable that his father wants to keep working on till essentially the day he dies, he has a very different public view.
7. I feel that Gambari would actually never work in the U.S. It is too ingrained into our society that we deserve to have time to rest. Some examples of this can be seen through the tradition of sports such as baseball, the five day work week, and vacation time. So overall I see having this way of thinking being a big disadvantage, however I could see the advantage of it by instilling motivation in the younger generation. It seems that each generation seems to get lazier and lazier, so having this could definitely help with that.
8. "Once you decide on your occupation... you must immerse yourself in your work. You have to fall in love with your work. Never complain about your job. You must dedicate your life to mastering your skill. That's the secret of success... and is the key to being regarded honorably." -Jiro
I chose this quote because it shows the extent of his belief towards Gambari. It hits all aspects that he believes shows the amount of time and dedication it takes in order to be successful.
9. I feel that the hardest one to understand is Kenkyo. While I do believe modesty is a virtue, the extent that they go to to hold up this ideal is way to much in my opinion. If it gets to the point where it is more polite to tear yourself down, I feel that it is too much and I feel that many Americans would actually look at that as a lack in self-confidence. I know personally that when someone "humbles" themselves to the point where I feel they are just tearing themselves down, it angers me more than if they had been a braggart about it. I feel that the idea of a lack of believe in yourself is terrible and I hate it when people I know do that to themselves.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Blog #3
Reflection from the discussion: I felt that overall we had a very well versed and intuitive discussion about the cultural aspects and how they were reflected within the movie. One particular point that stood out to me was the discussion on how the situation of bullying probably blew up the way it did due to the inner cultural boundaries. For instance, the want to not be direct or "aimai" was a big factor to what led the student to hold in his feelings. Overall, I felt our discussion pertaining to this topic was not only very academic in nature, but I also liked that we were able to share our own personal experience in regards to bullying. This allowed us to open up the discussion even further from just an analytical standpoint.
1. Gamabari
a) "According to Amanuma (ibd., pp. 131-133), on the whole, to have free time, to do nothing, or not to work gives the Japaneses an unpleasant feeling. They tend to think that having free time is wasteful, even shameful, and feel uneasy." pg 85
This idea seems very, very foreign to me. I, like many Americans, value having free time. In fact, a goal of mine this week is to get all my homework done so that I may go out and see some old friends on the weekend. It seems to be ingrained into our society that we need to have free time to show that we are doing well enough to not have to be productive for a span of time. However, I feel this is due to the fact that in America we value different aspects of home life than they do in Japan. For us, spending time with the family and watching a movie or TV show or even playing a board game is considered a sign of a good "group" of people who can work together. In Japan, the ability of the group to push each other to new limits through this concept of Gamabari seems to be held at the same level. Which, looking back at the historical development of modern day Japan, it really makes sense why this idea is held at such high esteem.
b) "...many Japanese men do not know what to do with themselves after they retire, since their purpose in living had always been to work. As a result, the number of elderly people who commit suicide has been increasing..." pg 86
This really struck me when I read it. I am so surprised that this is even a thing in any country in today's day and age. We as Americans learn from a very early age that you want to do well in school so you can go and get a good job. After working the job for however long, you then want to be able to retire and live out your days doing what you want to do. It seems like dream life, however the Japanese people see it as quite the opposite. Which, reflecting on other concepts that builds there culture, it makes sense. I feel that this could look into the idea of being apart of the group. The second you leave work, you become soto and are no longer apart of the uchi that is the workforce. Realizing this, it is a bit easier to understand how this reality in Japan came to life.
2. Kenkyo
a) "However, as soon as they enter junior high school, they are expected to conform to this rigid system. This is particularly true in extracurricular activities, which are conducted with little adult supervision in Japan and which take place within a rigid hierarchical system." pg 144
The way I read this was that extracurricular activities are student run with little to no adult supervision. To me this concept would be nice and well accepted in the States, however once you add the idea of having to treat those in charge of the activity like your superior, it starts to reach conflict within my Westernized style of thinking. I know I would never be able to adhere to this sort of system unless I was in charge all the time. I have always been very opinionated and very open to share my opinions on matters. In fact, in Western culture this is held up in some regards as a good trait. There is a saying, "Are you a wolf or a sheep? Don't be a sheep." or something along the lines of that. However, once again looking into the Japan's want to keep the group strong and not per-say the individuals, this sort of system would be necessary. It allows there to be some order within the group and allows things to be accomplished. Plus, by having these groups being exposed into the upcoming generations, it allows them to adapt into the work and social environments of Japan a lot easier. Overall, I feel I could never subject myself to this, but I can see why they have it in place.
b) "The expression of humility in English is a kind of understatement, within the spirit of 'you and I are equals.' Japanese modesty, on the other hand, carries the connotation of 'I'm your inferior' through the expression of negative self images." pg 147
Once again we find that two very similar ways of doing something within Western and Japanese culture have completely different notions behind it. I find it strange that in the Japanese culture it is considered polite to lower oneself in front of a "superior." I feel that even if I was above someone in some so called status, I would feel very awkward if they were to say how unworthy they were. To me, especially in this case where you are receiving a gift, it would be rude to not try and elevate the person who is being gracious enough to give you something. I'm sure any American would agree with this sentiment. To be honest, I have no idea how this concept really helps keep the idea of group life in Japan. To me, I feel that if I were to lower myself to others, it would only make me loathe and hate the fact that I am not higher up in the food chain. I feel this is more destructive than constructive. However, it has seemed to work for them so far, with only the recent generation moving away from such a system ( which could be due to the exposure of Western culture, its the small victories that count :P).
3. Amae
a) "With people who are part of the inner circle, however, the Japanese do not usually have as much of a sense of guilt, because they are so close that amae gives them confidence in any sin being forgiven (ibid)." pg 18
I feel that it would be awesome to see an equivalent within Western culture to this. However, I feel that it is quite the opposite. It seems that people can either be quick to forgive those that are close to them for wrong-doings, or they could not be due to a feeling of betrayal. There is a notion in Western culture that people in your "inner circle" are you closest and most trusted individuals in your life; when these people do something that would be worth of them feeling guilt, it can be taken as a misplacement of trust. People who go through this experience have feelings of conflict and even if they are capable of forgiving it seems to be never the same. However, it seems that in Japan that this can be almost just swept under the rug. This more than likely allows the group to move forward and to keep the unity intact.
b) ...Japanese relationships, which are based on amae, are unstable (Doi; cited in Sahashi, 1980, p. 79); that is, people hesitate to refuse others for fear of breaking this bond." pg 19
I feel that I can understand this feeling, however would never see myself or many people I know using it in practice. I feel that the ability to refuse, or tell someone what they are doing is wrong etc, strengthens these sort of bonds. It shows you care enough to tell them they are wrong and while it always isn't appreciated at first value, eventually it will be. While yes, saying no and such can lead to the destruction of bonds, it is not necessarily a bad thing. However, it seems that the Japanese value the bond more. As in all things so far, this concept is for the want of maintaining the group. The group is above all, even if you don't like it.
4. Honne to Tatemae
a) "Honne is one's deep motive or intention, while tatemae refers to motives or intentions that are socially-tuned, those that are shaped, encourage, or suppressed by majority norms. (Honna &Hoffer, 1986, p. 94)" pg 115
I feel that we as Americans can definitely understand this concept. We find ourselves many times changing our opinions on matters in order to fit the group opinion. It is at the basis of human nature to be accepted by others, and by having deferring opinions, it sets you apart and marks you as an outsider. However, at the same time, I feel that we value having your own motives being the reason to do whatever it is you are doing. The idea of group thought to Japan is more accepted by far and it is interesting to see how it plays out in that way.
b) "...the Japanese people make use of it extensively, taking honne and tatemae for granted in daily life because it is considered a virtue not to directly express one's real feelings and intentions." pg 116
Once again, we look at this from the American view of wanting to be true to yourself in what you do and say. I feel that it is a better virtue to do just that and the idea of not being honest with yourself is more appalling than virtuous. However, as I stated in the last citation, the want to keep the group together is more important that your own wants and desires. You have to be able to sacrifice in order to keep the idea and concept of unity up in the air.
1. Gamabari
a) "According to Amanuma (ibd., pp. 131-133), on the whole, to have free time, to do nothing, or not to work gives the Japaneses an unpleasant feeling. They tend to think that having free time is wasteful, even shameful, and feel uneasy." pg 85
This idea seems very, very foreign to me. I, like many Americans, value having free time. In fact, a goal of mine this week is to get all my homework done so that I may go out and see some old friends on the weekend. It seems to be ingrained into our society that we need to have free time to show that we are doing well enough to not have to be productive for a span of time. However, I feel this is due to the fact that in America we value different aspects of home life than they do in Japan. For us, spending time with the family and watching a movie or TV show or even playing a board game is considered a sign of a good "group" of people who can work together. In Japan, the ability of the group to push each other to new limits through this concept of Gamabari seems to be held at the same level. Which, looking back at the historical development of modern day Japan, it really makes sense why this idea is held at such high esteem.
b) "...many Japanese men do not know what to do with themselves after they retire, since their purpose in living had always been to work. As a result, the number of elderly people who commit suicide has been increasing..." pg 86
This really struck me when I read it. I am so surprised that this is even a thing in any country in today's day and age. We as Americans learn from a very early age that you want to do well in school so you can go and get a good job. After working the job for however long, you then want to be able to retire and live out your days doing what you want to do. It seems like dream life, however the Japanese people see it as quite the opposite. Which, reflecting on other concepts that builds there culture, it makes sense. I feel that this could look into the idea of being apart of the group. The second you leave work, you become soto and are no longer apart of the uchi that is the workforce. Realizing this, it is a bit easier to understand how this reality in Japan came to life.
2. Kenkyo
a) "However, as soon as they enter junior high school, they are expected to conform to this rigid system. This is particularly true in extracurricular activities, which are conducted with little adult supervision in Japan and which take place within a rigid hierarchical system." pg 144
The way I read this was that extracurricular activities are student run with little to no adult supervision. To me this concept would be nice and well accepted in the States, however once you add the idea of having to treat those in charge of the activity like your superior, it starts to reach conflict within my Westernized style of thinking. I know I would never be able to adhere to this sort of system unless I was in charge all the time. I have always been very opinionated and very open to share my opinions on matters. In fact, in Western culture this is held up in some regards as a good trait. There is a saying, "Are you a wolf or a sheep? Don't be a sheep." or something along the lines of that. However, once again looking into the Japan's want to keep the group strong and not per-say the individuals, this sort of system would be necessary. It allows there to be some order within the group and allows things to be accomplished. Plus, by having these groups being exposed into the upcoming generations, it allows them to adapt into the work and social environments of Japan a lot easier. Overall, I feel I could never subject myself to this, but I can see why they have it in place.
b) "The expression of humility in English is a kind of understatement, within the spirit of 'you and I are equals.' Japanese modesty, on the other hand, carries the connotation of 'I'm your inferior' through the expression of negative self images." pg 147
Once again we find that two very similar ways of doing something within Western and Japanese culture have completely different notions behind it. I find it strange that in the Japanese culture it is considered polite to lower oneself in front of a "superior." I feel that even if I was above someone in some so called status, I would feel very awkward if they were to say how unworthy they were. To me, especially in this case where you are receiving a gift, it would be rude to not try and elevate the person who is being gracious enough to give you something. I'm sure any American would agree with this sentiment. To be honest, I have no idea how this concept really helps keep the idea of group life in Japan. To me, I feel that if I were to lower myself to others, it would only make me loathe and hate the fact that I am not higher up in the food chain. I feel this is more destructive than constructive. However, it has seemed to work for them so far, with only the recent generation moving away from such a system ( which could be due to the exposure of Western culture, its the small victories that count :P).
3. Amae
a) "With people who are part of the inner circle, however, the Japanese do not usually have as much of a sense of guilt, because they are so close that amae gives them confidence in any sin being forgiven (ibid)." pg 18
I feel that it would be awesome to see an equivalent within Western culture to this. However, I feel that it is quite the opposite. It seems that people can either be quick to forgive those that are close to them for wrong-doings, or they could not be due to a feeling of betrayal. There is a notion in Western culture that people in your "inner circle" are you closest and most trusted individuals in your life; when these people do something that would be worth of them feeling guilt, it can be taken as a misplacement of trust. People who go through this experience have feelings of conflict and even if they are capable of forgiving it seems to be never the same. However, it seems that in Japan that this can be almost just swept under the rug. This more than likely allows the group to move forward and to keep the unity intact.
b) ...Japanese relationships, which are based on amae, are unstable (Doi; cited in Sahashi, 1980, p. 79); that is, people hesitate to refuse others for fear of breaking this bond." pg 19
I feel that I can understand this feeling, however would never see myself or many people I know using it in practice. I feel that the ability to refuse, or tell someone what they are doing is wrong etc, strengthens these sort of bonds. It shows you care enough to tell them they are wrong and while it always isn't appreciated at first value, eventually it will be. While yes, saying no and such can lead to the destruction of bonds, it is not necessarily a bad thing. However, it seems that the Japanese value the bond more. As in all things so far, this concept is for the want of maintaining the group. The group is above all, even if you don't like it.
4. Honne to Tatemae
a) "Honne is one's deep motive or intention, while tatemae refers to motives or intentions that are socially-tuned, those that are shaped, encourage, or suppressed by majority norms. (Honna &Hoffer, 1986, p. 94)" pg 115
I feel that we as Americans can definitely understand this concept. We find ourselves many times changing our opinions on matters in order to fit the group opinion. It is at the basis of human nature to be accepted by others, and by having deferring opinions, it sets you apart and marks you as an outsider. However, at the same time, I feel that we value having your own motives being the reason to do whatever it is you are doing. The idea of group thought to Japan is more accepted by far and it is interesting to see how it plays out in that way.
b) "...the Japanese people make use of it extensively, taking honne and tatemae for granted in daily life because it is considered a virtue not to directly express one's real feelings and intentions." pg 116
Once again, we look at this from the American view of wanting to be true to yourself in what you do and say. I feel that it is a better virtue to do just that and the idea of not being honest with yourself is more appalling than virtuous. However, as I stated in the last citation, the want to keep the group together is more important that your own wants and desires. You have to be able to sacrifice in order to keep the idea and concept of unity up in the air.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Blog #2
1. In the film, I believe the virtue of aimai was reflected in the scene where the principal addressed the teacher in an ambiguous way that he should take out the empty desk from the classroom. By doing so in this way, he showed respect towards the teacher by allowing him to come to the conclusion himself instead of saying it outright, which would embarrass him.
2. Aimai is used in the bullying by not physically tearing down the students. It's more of a sarcastic way of breaking down the person and leaves the offender feeling they did nothing wrong. A good example of this is when they discussed how exactly they bullied the student, and how it was just them pushing him to steal from his parents.
3. Bullying in the United states isn't as Suttle as it is in Japan. However, it still has very similar psychological effects. I would even argue that they are one in the same with how cyber bullying today has taken over. The nature of people in the US is to want to fit in, and if you don't have what is in or don't like the right things, you are a target for bullying. In this way Japan and the US are similar for its about people who are in ganging up on those who are out of a group.
4. If you look at the concept of Uchi and Soto as applied to this situation, it becomes very clear how it plays a role. Noguchi was not part of the Uchi for a few reasons, one his family only recently moved to the area, two he was a little different, hyperactive, and three he seemed to always be super happy. Everyone else would've been considered in the Uchi, and due to this cultural aspect where the Uchi closes off to the Soto, they didn't treat Noguchi the same way as they would anyone else. This led to group bullying for the desire of the individuals to not want to become part of the Soto.
5. The way the males and females interacted with each other in the classroom was very interesting. The females seen to be timid around the males and rarely spoke up or made eye contact with them. Even the adult teachers had trouble talking up to their male coworkers. Over, it seemed to be more male dominant, and the males knew it.
6. The reflection paper that they first wrote was the school trying to cover their butt after what had happened. Overall it had no feeling, but was essentially what the school wanted everyone to say about the incident and how the school wanted them to change in the classroom. The second paper was for their own personal use, to help them truly put down their thoughts on what had occurred, so they could learn from their mistakes. Thus would allow them to never forget, which was really important for them to move on in their lives.
7. I feel the stuttering teacher showed the students many things. First it showed that you can be different and still express yourself earnestly. Second he showed them that trying to let go of the past will never truly fix the situation, you have to face it and learn how to deal with it. Last but not least, he showed them that it is not necessary to express yourself through anger to get your point across. Silence is just as effective, if not more so.
8. The third person he wrote in his will was "everyone else."
9. Bullying is when you trample all over someone and never notice their pain. When you just go on like nothing is wrong. He told sonobe that it is cowardly to move on, and that it is more responsible to remember.
10. I really enjoyed the film. I have looked into the problem of teenage suicide rates in Japan before and I feel this film is really necessary for teens in Japan to watch to understand what they are doing to their fellow students. I never feel like I was bullied but I know plenty of people who have been and for that reason it made me appreciate this film even more. I didn't not quite understand all the cultural references but over I got the message.
11. In order to watch this movie I had to both read and watch the scenes at the same time, I think it makes for a more active Watching experience and it allows me to comprehend the whole movie more than I would normally. I'm not sure if this is a difficult concept that the movie explained well, but I am confused on the structure of the classroom and the day to day activities. The multiple semesters, the daily bowing and duty chart stuff just all is very foreign to me. I definitely want to learn more about it so I can better understand the classroom dynamics in Japan.
2. Aimai is used in the bullying by not physically tearing down the students. It's more of a sarcastic way of breaking down the person and leaves the offender feeling they did nothing wrong. A good example of this is when they discussed how exactly they bullied the student, and how it was just them pushing him to steal from his parents.
3. Bullying in the United states isn't as Suttle as it is in Japan. However, it still has very similar psychological effects. I would even argue that they are one in the same with how cyber bullying today has taken over. The nature of people in the US is to want to fit in, and if you don't have what is in or don't like the right things, you are a target for bullying. In this way Japan and the US are similar for its about people who are in ganging up on those who are out of a group.
4. If you look at the concept of Uchi and Soto as applied to this situation, it becomes very clear how it plays a role. Noguchi was not part of the Uchi for a few reasons, one his family only recently moved to the area, two he was a little different, hyperactive, and three he seemed to always be super happy. Everyone else would've been considered in the Uchi, and due to this cultural aspect where the Uchi closes off to the Soto, they didn't treat Noguchi the same way as they would anyone else. This led to group bullying for the desire of the individuals to not want to become part of the Soto.
5. The way the males and females interacted with each other in the classroom was very interesting. The females seen to be timid around the males and rarely spoke up or made eye contact with them. Even the adult teachers had trouble talking up to their male coworkers. Over, it seemed to be more male dominant, and the males knew it.
6. The reflection paper that they first wrote was the school trying to cover their butt after what had happened. Overall it had no feeling, but was essentially what the school wanted everyone to say about the incident and how the school wanted them to change in the classroom. The second paper was for their own personal use, to help them truly put down their thoughts on what had occurred, so they could learn from their mistakes. Thus would allow them to never forget, which was really important for them to move on in their lives.
7. I feel the stuttering teacher showed the students many things. First it showed that you can be different and still express yourself earnestly. Second he showed them that trying to let go of the past will never truly fix the situation, you have to face it and learn how to deal with it. Last but not least, he showed them that it is not necessary to express yourself through anger to get your point across. Silence is just as effective, if not more so.
8. The third person he wrote in his will was "everyone else."
9. Bullying is when you trample all over someone and never notice their pain. When you just go on like nothing is wrong. He told sonobe that it is cowardly to move on, and that it is more responsible to remember.
10. I really enjoyed the film. I have looked into the problem of teenage suicide rates in Japan before and I feel this film is really necessary for teens in Japan to watch to understand what they are doing to their fellow students. I never feel like I was bullied but I know plenty of people who have been and for that reason it made me appreciate this film even more. I didn't not quite understand all the cultural references but over I got the message.
11. In order to watch this movie I had to both read and watch the scenes at the same time, I think it makes for a more active Watching experience and it allows me to comprehend the whole movie more than I would normally. I'm not sure if this is a difficult concept that the movie explained well, but I am confused on the structure of the classroom and the day to day activities. The multiple semesters, the daily bowing and duty chart stuff just all is very foreign to me. I definitely want to learn more about it so I can better understand the classroom dynamics in Japan.
Blog #1
Aimai
1. "In order to to live without creating any serious problems for the group's harmony, people avoided expressing their ideas clearly, even to the point of avoiding giving a simple yes or no answer." Pg 10
This concept of keeping a sense of ambiguity is very strange to me as an American. In our culture, vagueness is considered to be more rude than polite. Many times, I have heard people state they would rather someone to "get to the point" rather than "dance around the subject." I also have this sentiment, and I feel that I would react poorly to someone talking to me in such a manner. However, I can see why this idea of "Aimai" is necessary to keep harmony within the "group" that which these people have to interact with everyday. It allows no one to feel that they are being talked down to, allowing the harmony to be kept in place. Overall, the concept is foreign to me, but I can see how it has its purpose within the society.
Uchi to Soto
1. "The distinction between uchi and soto is obvious in Japanese psychological exclusivism toward other peoples, and discrimination against minority groups such as burakumin, the Ainu, and the ethnic Koreans is still widespread in Japan." Pg 219
I remember learning in a history class during high school that Japan, for the longest time, didn't allow trade in and out of its harbors for the want of not allowing outsiders in. Reading this section of the book allowed me to understand that more. In the recent years in our society, we as Americans have taken on a very similar, yet not as strict, sediment towards "outsiders." So I feel that many Americans might be able to understand and comprehend this concept on the larger scale, however it would seem very odd to implement on the personal level. We view interacting with people we don't know as more of a social norm. I personally don't think I would be able to keep to such a strict "in and out" kind of social group. I also feel that doing it on such a large scale as to discriminate against people who aren't exactly the same as myself as wrong and immoral. However, it seems that it is more acceptable in Japan, just due to this ingrained social structure.
Chinmoku
1. "Husbands and wives in Japan tend not to use overt verbal communication and try to understand each other by nonverbal means, especially when they attempt to express tender emotions." Pg 54
In American society, this idea of not expressing yourself opening through words to your partner/loved one, would seem very odd. We tend to want and wish for people to tell us upfront how they feel about us; we enjoy it when they do. I, for instance, love expressing my feelings to someone through the use of poetry. I feel that it better expresses my feelings than a normal conversation could, and even better than saying nothing at all. However, in Japanese society it is more acceptable because they want to keep in harmonious. Saying nothing at all allows for this to state of living to exist, so silence is considered the better way to interact with their loved ones in Japanese culture.
Danjyo kankei
1. "Expressing the term husband in Japanese, most wives use the word shujin, which consists of two kanji meaning 'main person.' On the other hand, kanai, which literally means "inside house," is utilized by men as the word for wife." Pg 63
This very open sexism is appalling to me. I personally feel that everyone, despite race, religion, political beliefs, sex, etc., should be treated as equals. In Japanese culture, men are seem to be held at a high superiority. Their being men is enough to make them more qualified to be the one that makes decisions and run the general house. I feel that many Americans would feel a connection to this style of home, however the exact degree would be considered oppressive and unjust. In our culture, unfortunately, men have taken on a role as the provider while the women are the caregiver/house maker. This is kind of similar to that of Japanese household structure. However, I have a disdain for both of these, and don't agree with the message that it sends.
1. "In order to to live without creating any serious problems for the group's harmony, people avoided expressing their ideas clearly, even to the point of avoiding giving a simple yes or no answer." Pg 10
This concept of keeping a sense of ambiguity is very strange to me as an American. In our culture, vagueness is considered to be more rude than polite. Many times, I have heard people state they would rather someone to "get to the point" rather than "dance around the subject." I also have this sentiment, and I feel that I would react poorly to someone talking to me in such a manner. However, I can see why this idea of "Aimai" is necessary to keep harmony within the "group" that which these people have to interact with everyday. It allows no one to feel that they are being talked down to, allowing the harmony to be kept in place. Overall, the concept is foreign to me, but I can see how it has its purpose within the society.
Uchi to Soto
1. "The distinction between uchi and soto is obvious in Japanese psychological exclusivism toward other peoples, and discrimination against minority groups such as burakumin, the Ainu, and the ethnic Koreans is still widespread in Japan." Pg 219
I remember learning in a history class during high school that Japan, for the longest time, didn't allow trade in and out of its harbors for the want of not allowing outsiders in. Reading this section of the book allowed me to understand that more. In the recent years in our society, we as Americans have taken on a very similar, yet not as strict, sediment towards "outsiders." So I feel that many Americans might be able to understand and comprehend this concept on the larger scale, however it would seem very odd to implement on the personal level. We view interacting with people we don't know as more of a social norm. I personally don't think I would be able to keep to such a strict "in and out" kind of social group. I also feel that doing it on such a large scale as to discriminate against people who aren't exactly the same as myself as wrong and immoral. However, it seems that it is more acceptable in Japan, just due to this ingrained social structure.
Chinmoku
1. "Husbands and wives in Japan tend not to use overt verbal communication and try to understand each other by nonverbal means, especially when they attempt to express tender emotions." Pg 54
In American society, this idea of not expressing yourself opening through words to your partner/loved one, would seem very odd. We tend to want and wish for people to tell us upfront how they feel about us; we enjoy it when they do. I, for instance, love expressing my feelings to someone through the use of poetry. I feel that it better expresses my feelings than a normal conversation could, and even better than saying nothing at all. However, in Japanese society it is more acceptable because they want to keep in harmonious. Saying nothing at all allows for this to state of living to exist, so silence is considered the better way to interact with their loved ones in Japanese culture.
Danjyo kankei
1. "Expressing the term husband in Japanese, most wives use the word shujin, which consists of two kanji meaning 'main person.' On the other hand, kanai, which literally means "inside house," is utilized by men as the word for wife." Pg 63
This very open sexism is appalling to me. I personally feel that everyone, despite race, religion, political beliefs, sex, etc., should be treated as equals. In Japanese culture, men are seem to be held at a high superiority. Their being men is enough to make them more qualified to be the one that makes decisions and run the general house. I feel that many Americans would feel a connection to this style of home, however the exact degree would be considered oppressive and unjust. In our culture, unfortunately, men have taken on a role as the provider while the women are the caregiver/house maker. This is kind of similar to that of Japanese household structure. However, I have a disdain for both of these, and don't agree with the message that it sends.
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