Lecture 1 - Introduction

Question 1

What are the 12 major assumptions of Nihonjinron?

Answer 1

Western vs Japanese:

1. individualism vs groupism
2. psychologically independent vs psychologically interdependent
3. horizontal, interpersonal ties vs vertical interpersonal ties
4. egalitarianism vs hierarchy
5. contractual vs ‘kintractual’
6. rights vs duties
7. intolerance vs tolerance
8. logical vs ambivalent
9. rational vs emotional
10. rigid procedures, universalism vs situational
11. divisive vs harmonious, continuity
12. racial heterogeneity vs racial homogeneity

Question 2

Describe the way that the major assumptions of nihonjinron have been used during the last few decades.

Answer 2

In 1950s and 60s (and early 70s), values of Japanese society were seen as an explanation as to why Japan had not become a fully developed society.
80s and 90s, same values used to explain Japan’s success.
2000s, 2010s, used again to explain why unsuccessful (relevant to Japanese economy).

Question 3

What has changed about the values of Japanese society, the values themselves or the way they have been interpreted?

Answer 3

The way they have been interpreted.

Question 4

What are the two variables used in anthropological research on Japan?

Answer 4

1. The way we view society depends on how we view the relationship between society and the person.
2. Japanology vs Japanese Studies.

Question 5

Does anthropology use ‘person’ and ‘personhood’ or ‘individual’ and ‘individualism’?

Answer 5

‘Person’ and ‘personhood’.

Question 6

What are the two questions about the relationship between society and the person that interests anthropologists?

Furthermore, which three intellectual streams break down these two questions?

Answer 6

1. How does society constrain the person through norms and rituals, etc.?
2. How does the person construct society?

This is broken down into three intellectual streams. The first two are concerned with the idea that society constrains the world:
- society is consensus-driven (functionalism, Durkheim)
- society is conflict-driven (Marxism)
The second is concerned with the idea that the person constructs society.
-Weber.

Question 7

Explain Functionalism.

Answer 7

Using analogy of biology.

• society as an organ, if you change one part then all parts have to be changed.
• evolution not revolution
• if there is conflict, (e.g. germ), needs to be dealt with and then rejected.
• education as a black box which children are fed through in order to prepare them for unified, homogeneous political system to keep model of society operating effectively.

Question 8

Explain Marxism.

Answer 8

Society is already divided. Education as a way of maintaining structural inequality - background dictates what you will come out with.

Question 9

What is social action theory?

Answer 9

Weber - person is active not passive.