Japanese Culture The Religious and Philosophical Foundations [Paperback]

Japanese Culture: The Religious and Philosophical Foundationstakes readers on a thoroughly researched and remarkably readable journey through Japan's cultural history.

This much-anticipated sequel to Roger Davies's best-sellingThe Japanese Mindprovides a comprehensive overview of the religion and philosophy of Japan. This cultural history of Japan explains the diverse cultural traditions that underlie modern Japan and offers readers real insights into Japanese manners and etiquette.

Davies begins with an investigation of the origins of the Japanese, followed by an analysis of the most relevant approaches used by scholars to describe the essential elements of Japanese culture. From there, each chapter focuses on one of the formative aspects: Shintoism, Buddhism, Taoism, Zen, Confucianism, and Western influences in the modern era.

Each chapter is concluded with extensive endnotes along with thought-provoking discussion activities, making this volume ideal for individual readers and classroom instruction. Anyone interested in pursuing a deeper understanding of this complex and fascinating nation will find Davies's work an invaluable resource. Japanese Culture is an in-depth introduction to different aspects and influences that make Japan the unique world it is. From its history, its isolation, and its aesthetics to the influence of the Chinese, the West, and beyond, this book won't make you an expert, but it will give you a solid foundation of knowledge to build upon…With numerous thought-provoking questions to discuss and appendices loaded with additional information, Japanese Culture is both an accessible, erudite guidebook and a launching pad to greater, more enriching studying to come. —Manhattan Book ReviewRoger J. Daviesis a committed advocate of lifelong learning with degrees in Linguistics (M.A. Ph.D.) and Business Administration (MBA) from universities in Canada, Great Britain, and thló!