It is the same with people.
We all have the same basic traits, but with minor differences and in different combinations.

But we`re definitely not all the same. I don`t like others because they have a "unique combination of traits" - I like them because they have a combination of traits I find agreeable.

Yeah we agree. And I didn't mean to make it sound like Nihonjinron was like a fascist or bigoted field of literature. I mean some of it is... but a lot of it is just a part of a discourse.

I haven't been exposed to very much of it to be honest but I am pretty neutral regarding my feelings towards it.

It's worth mentioning that I am working on my MA in Government with an emphasis on Japanese Culture and Politics, and I just got done writing a ten page report on Hirohito from birth until the surrender in WWII, with about ten percent of the paper being written in Japanese (mostly kanji). So a lot of this stuff is REALLY fresh in my mind, especially when it is combined with my personal experiences living in Japan and just being in the culture, much as Nyororin mentioned.

That would about be my take on it. Well stated.

best,

.........john

that sounds really interesting---congratulations. I should love to read your findings.


I have many books and dvd's about the japanese wars and on their society which I find fascinating. also books with illustrations of their wonderful crafts.


My japanese friend believes that everything has its own God, that is why she is passionate about Nature. Gets upset if plants are neglected, or even a broken cup--coming from the clay. Also ancestors are important.

Indeed the kami are everywhere and permeate everything.

honestly part of my perception of japanese society is much like someone that got knocked in the head real hard and is trying to reorient themselves

Only it was a pretty massive bump and it's taking a bit longer than expected.

When I mention to peopled age, that I want to live and work in Japan they always think it's just because of anime and manga. That is not true, now im not saying I have not seen anime since everyone has. But it bothers me that that's all they know. It is not why im interested in Japan.

I also disagree with a previous comment that said that Japanese history was boring. I think it's really interesting. It is the countries history that defines it's current mentality and culture. Japans history is interesting and unique to that of the rest of Asia. I'm always looking to learn more about it. I like reading about Japan before the Edo period. I'm also reading current Japanese news everyday online through the Japan Times since today's current events influence the people in the future and you never get to see any national news outside Japan.

When I think of the history I like to think of the Edo period with the shogunate and samurai behavior and speech, This is all of major interest to me.

I think the "Why don't you get a book on your own country thing kinda annoying" because I live in Australia..... enough said .. and sure you can say that but when you think about it .. it is fine to be bored by a culture you have been exposed to and have learned in school but then to be enamored by another culture that you know nothing about it kind of like venturing into unknown territory

Oh and
Some of the shinto things are very interesting too.....