Roger Davies

In "The Japanese Mind," Roger Davies offers Westerners an invaluable key to the unique aspects of Japanese culture. Readers of this book will gain a clear understanding of what really makes the Japanese, and their society, tick. Among the topics explored: "aimai" (ambiguity), "amae" (dependence upon others' benevolence), "amakudari" (the nation's descent from heaven), "chinmoku" (silence in communication), "gambari" (perseverence), "giri" (social obligation), "haragei" (literally, "belly art"; implicit, unspoken communication), "kenkyo" (the appearance of modesty), "sempai-kohai" (seniority), "wabi-sabi" (simplicity and elegance), and "zoto" (gift giving), as well as discussions of child-rearing, personal space, and the roles of women in Japanese society. Includes discussion topics and questions after each chapter. All in all, this book is an easy-to-use introduction to the distinguishing characteristics of Japanese society; an invaluable resource for anyone business people, travelers, or students perfect for course adoption, but also for anyone interested in Japanese culture."