Introduction to Japan

How do you understand Japan? n Asia’s first “economic miracle” has underperformed most other developed countries for 2 decades n A strong democracy that barely changed its government in 50 years n It preserves great cultural traditions, yet is dynamic in modern music, dance, and other forms of expressive culture n The first developed nation whose population is now shrinking

n What is happening between the young truck driver and old man while they eat noodles? n Why is Tampopo so concerned about making perfect noodles? n Why does the senior businessman kick his junior employee in the French restaurant? All you need to know is in Tampopo!

So, how do you understand Japan? n By learning about cultural structures, norms and processes of interaction n These explain why the Japanese act the way they do. n And they explain why Japanese culture changes and why its stays the same.

Course Outline Change and Continuity: 3 Key concepts The Setting History Society Economics Politics

Introduction to Japan Instructor: Jerry Patchell; Office Hours: Tuesday 12:30-2:30 Rm 2352A TA: Becky, Fung Pik Ki; Office Hours: Thursday 1:30-3:30 Room 2361 Course website:

Teaching Methodology Problem-Based Learning n Explanation of processes of cultural change and continuity n Demonstrating how they evolved and work in Japanese society, economy and politics n Films as windows into these operations n Develop understanding by analyzing the films

Evaluations u Two tests: midterm and final u An essay analyzing a film or topic of your choice u Participation bonus (questions, comments, informal quizzes after films)

Course Materials n On-line course notes n Films: in class and on reserve n Text: The Japanese Today: change and continuity n Supplementary readings: on reserve and on course website

Expectations and Regulations n Lectures u listen, watch, interact, ask questions u discuss questions received by u be punctual and courteous n Course notes (and readings) u read, think, apply

Next Class n Key concepts of continuity and change u Group orientation u Individual Expression u Universal Principles