THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL ATTITUDES IN MODERN JAPAN

Aim
To what extent do traditional Japanese attitudes play a role in Japan today

Educational Objectives
1. Students will learn about contemporary Japanese culture.
2. Students will think critically about the affects of traditional Japanese attitudes on modern Japanese society.

Vocabulary
group solidarity

Motivation
Ask the class: What are some old traditions that are practiced by your family? Have any of your family traditions been discontinued? If so, why?

Development
1. Have the class read the selection either aloud or silently.
2. Discuss and/or have the students answer the following questions in writing.

Questions for review
1. According to Edwin Reischauer, how is Japanese group solidarity illustrated by their attitudes toward foreigners.
2. Why do the Japanese have a strong sense of separateness from other peoples?
3. What is unique about Japan as an industrialized country?
4. How did the Japanese integrate foreign ideas into their own culture?
5. Why might many industrialized countries find it difficult to hold onto ancient traditions?

Summary
How has Japanese history been driven by the two opposing forces of cultural change and the desire to maintain tradition?

Application (Writing Exercise)
Drawing from what you know of Japanese geography and history, what might account for some of the unique qualities of Japanese culture?

Homework
Look up the words adopt, adapt, and adept. How do these three words illustrate how the Japanese borrow from other cultures?