Video Conference 2

Stephanie Buff

Video Conference #2

The second videoconference contained very effective small group discussions. My small group members from our class were Kellyann, Melanie and Tim. During the first discussion, Johan from Sweden joined us. During the second discussion, Erik joined us. With Johan, we discussed Cool Japan and the general nature of pop culture in Japan. Subsequently, with Erik, Cute Japan was the topic for conversation.

When discussing Cool Japan, the conversation began with all of us admitting that we had not heard of Cool Japan. Johan began the discussion by providing insight into what he thought Cool Japan might be, just referring to a kind of marketable concept of popular culture. During our discussion, Kellyann sent us all an article describing what Cool Japan is, which we determined was similar to Jonah’s insight. I referred to the Cool Japan slide, which mentioned that a “Cool Japan Conference”, would be held at the given date. In my opinion, I said that this indicated that “Cool Japan” is not just a regular popular culture, but also rather an actual concrete marketing ploy, that seems internationally aimed. Melanie contributed a few ideas, about Cool Japan as well. This provided a seg-way for me to ask if anyone knew any Japanese music. Kellyann, Tim and Johan all agreed that the music generally has a techno-type base, and Johan continued to comment that a lot of “boy band” type of music exists. We paralleled the music industry with America, which markets attractive boy bands like “One Direction”, not necessarily just based on talent, but also because of aesthetic appeal. The idea of aesthetics became the topic for our next conversation about Cute Japan.

The slide on Cute Japan caused Melanie to talk a great deal about anime and Japanese video games. She made some great points about the cute appeal of the animated Japanese characters. Hello Kitty seemed to be a very relatable object of cute Japan, because it is well marketed in America. I continued to bring up, and reflect on the idea that marketing is all about mass appeal. I thought about objects of American marketing, which immediately made me think of “Barbie”.  Consequently, discussion about cultural aesthetic appeal ensued. I presented the concept of American appeal taking a more “sexy” approach, where as Japan may find  a “cute” approach more appealing. Upon reflecting on this idea, it is obvious that what is considered attractive may differ between cultures. Indicating that beauty is a cultural determination.

The small group discussion during our videoconferences catalyzed relevant and substantial conversations about cultural differentials. The topic of “popular culture” was an excellent category to spark meaningful conversations. 

Japanese Immigration

Stephanie Buff

Japanese Immigration Policy

             My studies apart from AS150 have prompted focus on the United States immigration policy. Furthermore, motives, and circumstances of immigrants have become. Appropriately, I became interested in Japan’s regulatory policies. The Japan Times released an article on March 6 2012, focusing on Japan’s reformed immigration system. The visa regime incorporates a “points system”, designed to attract 2,000 non-Japanese immigrants.

            The objectives of the system include the attraction of a specific demographic of immigrants. This demographic includes individuals with “high salaries, impeccable educational and vocational pedigrees, specialized technical knowledge and excellent managerial/administrative skills.” (Arudou). Preferential visas are given to those considered prestigious. The articles describe these people as “lucky foreign millionaire Ph.Ds” (Ardou). The preferential visa includes “five- year visas, fast-tracking to permanent residency, work status for spouses, and even visas to bring their parents and “hired housekeepers” along.” (Arudou).

            Those preferred individuals are determined with the “Justice Ministry’s qualifying scale”. One must score seventy points on the qualifying scale. The scale is tough and even includes a sliding element according to the individuals’ circumstance. Interestingly, Japanese language ability has a low weight on the qualifying scale.

            The system outlined by Ardou in the article “Japan’s revolving-door immigration policy hard-wired to fail”, contrasts the American system greatly. Contrastingly ideas like those of Japan should bring topic for discussion in the U.S system.

Discussion Questions:

1.     Do you feel that this system of immigration has more benefits than the US policy?

Do you feel that the immigration system is unjust in Japan

Becoming a Geisha

Stephanie Buff

Becoming a Geisha: BBC documentary

Reaction Paper

November 13, 2012

Becoming a Geisha is a captivating documentary that follows Yukina, a fifteen year-old Japanese girl, through the process of becoming a geisha. The concept of geisha entertainment and training is interesting and provides insight into the priorities and values of Japanese culture. It is evident from the documentary that a geisha is a revered figure of Japanese society. This honor is not given lightly, and the dedication of those pursuing a career as a geisha is admirable.

The documentary depicts Yukina’s progression through the process of becoming a geisha. During the documentary, Yukina is a “Maiko”, which is essentially an apprentice. The apprenticeship begins in the early teenage years. Specifically, Yukina is fifteen years old. Because of the commitment required to be a Maiko, Yukina is not enrolled in school. One scene that especially expresses the commitment required to become a geisha was when Yukina stayed awake until two in the morning waiting for her geisha sister to return from work. Yukina described the lack of sleep required for the job, and the hours of training that are required to complete Maiko training. This level of dedication even eliminates the possibility of dating for those intending to become a geisha professionally. Furthermore, the profession intrudes deeper into personal life by removing young girls from their families for training. The documentary specified that Yukina had not seen her family in sixth months since beginning her training.

A few more aspects of geisha culture that surprised me were the frequency of haircuts, which was specified as five to seven times per week. Another staggering quantitative value was relating to the number of kimonos in a geisha’s wardrobe. Apparently, the average number of kimonos’ in a wardrobe is forty. Additionally, I was unaware of the sexual connotation that accompanies the geisha’s job. Becoming a Geisha was a very enlightening documentary.

Departures Reaction

Departures Film Reaction

Stephanie Buff

November 5

Departures was a tastefully made film that captures many sentiments of death. The nature of the film paired with Daigo’s acquired profession of preparing the dead forces viewers to consider the process of death. Culturally, Japanese mourning and departure practices are revealed, which is the most relevant point of the film. It was particularly interesting to note the similarities between Japanese and American funeral customs, including the popularity of cremation, and the mutual concept of an observatory wake. However, the most interesting aspect of the film from a personal standpoint was not a result of the cultural aspect of Departures.

            Personally, considering Daigo’s job had an enormous effect on the way I consider death and mourning. After having attended open casket wakes, it is almost disturbing to consider that a person makes a living preparing the deceased for viewing. The scene where Daigo realizes that he is holding a scent of death on the bus is somewhat disturbing in my opinion. I have an increased respect for those who work to make wakes a pleasing mourning experience. As emotionally effective as wakes can be, the proper presentation is important for the concept of closure. Daigo’s love of music and the breathtaking scenery in the film helped to highlight the beauty in life in death, even when emotions are often dark.

            Relating more to the relevant aspect of the cultural elements of departures, it was interesting to see the funeral practices in the film. The dress was black to symbolize morning much like American mourning practices. Furthermore, the different scenes where dinner was taking place, showcased Japanese food traditions that we have been learning about. 

Japanese Literature

Stephanie Buff

Japanese Literature

October 30

As an English major subjected to the study of various genres of American Literature, the foundation and role of Japanese literature in society is an area of interest. After researching the origins of Japanese literature, it became evident that various external cultural influences are deeply rooted in Japan’s literature. “Early works of Japanese literature were heavily influenced by cultural contact with China and Chinese literature, often written in Classic Chinese”. This parallels much of the old English literature that was transcribed from Latin, most specifically in Medieval times. Furthermore, “Indian literature also had an influence through the diffusion of Buddhism in Japan”. Even with these outside influences, Japan eventually developed a separate style. However, the influence of Chinese Literature and the Classic Chinese style remained prevalent until the end of what was known as the Edo period, which is specified as the years between 1603 and 1868. In a more modern sense, “since Japan reopened its ports to Western trading and diplomacy in the 19^th century” Western and Eastern literature have affected each other, and have continued to do so until the present. The overarching genres of Japan’s literature can most easily be divided into six periods.

The first genre of literature is described as “Ancient Literature”. This period continued until 794. The most identifiable aspect of this period came from the Japanese writing system, or lack there of. “Before the introduction of kanji from China, Japanese had no writing system.” Essentially, Chinese characters were used in Japanese syntactical formats, giving writing Chinese appearance, but being read phonetically as Japanese language. “Chinese characters were further adapted, creating what is known as manyogana, the earliest form of kana, or syllabic writing.” The earliest Japanese works were created in what was known as the Nara period (710-794). Works during this “Ancient Literature” period include, Kojiki, Nihon Shoki and Manyoshu, a poetic anthology. Ancient Literature was followed by what is know as Classic literature.

Classic Literature existed between 794 and 1185. Classic works were produced during the Heian Period, which is referred to as the golden era of art and literature. For example, Genji Monogatari (early 11^th century), a work written by Murasaki Shikibu, may be considered the pre-eminent masterpiece of Heian fiction and an early example of a work of fiction in the format of a novel. Poetic anthologies, like, Kokin Wakashu, mark the Classic period as well. Furthermore, the Japanese narrative known as Taketori Monogatari, is considered one of the earliest examples of photo-science fiction. The tale involves extraterrestrial life and incorporates a princess protagonist. Following this period, Medieval literature pursued.

Medieval literature spanned from 1185 to 1603. Historically, this time was defined by multiple civil wars that led to the development of warrior class. This made war tales a prominent topic of literature. Insights into topics of life and death also dominate this period. The Tale of the Heike is a work representative of Medieval Literature. Linked verse and theater became prominent during this time as well. Early Modern Literature followed the Medieval genre.

Early Modern Literature (1603-1868) accompanied a time of historical and political peace in Japan, a time known as the Tokugawa Period. Rising literacy rates placed a larger emphasis on written works during the 17^th and 18^th century. Genres of the time included horror, crime stories, morality tales, comedy and pornographic works. Literature continued to be published in Chinese during the Early Modern time.

Modern Literature is the final period of marked literature. The period extended from 1868-1945. European literature became a domineering influence on Japanese writing, and became modernized with the period of marked rapid industrialization. Free verse was introduced into poetic repertoire. Works began incorporating new intellectual based themes. English concepts like romantic works began appearing as well. Even types of English Enlightenment literature became evident.

Discussion Question:

1.     Would you argue that Japanese literature has its own style, or is a sole product of external influences?

Tsunami Reaction

Tsunami Video Reaction

Following the shocking footage of the tsunami in Japan, showing the destruction of entire neighborhoods and floating vehicles, I decided to do further research on the natural disaster. The mass natural destruction occurred in March 2011. Casualties amounted to twenty- eight thousand. This incorporated those who were considered dead or missing following the tsunami.

One of the most shocking facts about the natural disaster was the penetration of an eighteen-foot wall by force of water. The creation of such powerful waves resulted from the shift of tectonic plates. Apparently, approximately “eighty percent of tsunamis happen within the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire”, a geologically active area where tectonic shifts make volcanoes and earthquakes common.” The force of a tsunamis waves results from their five hundred mile per hour speed, comparable to the speed of a jet plane. These waves come in series, often referred to as a wave train, compounding the destructive force of the disaster.

Pictures in Miyako Japan effectively display a visual of the waves penetrating the sea wall and rushing over a highway. These pictures of the tsunami waves were taken shortly after a magnitude 9.0 earthquake had shook the region. The wall of water is further depicted in photos at the height of houses, destroying every building in it’s path.

Even by May of 2011, photos of the tsunami’s destruction were still available. Now, at the 2012 one year anniversary, the Japanese government has made much progress with reparations, but like New Orleans and the destruction it faced following hurricane Katrina, much reparation and government attention is still needed.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2012/03/pictures/120309-japan-tsunami-earthquake-anniversary-fukushima/#/japan-earthquake-tsunami-before-after-boat-before_49801_600x450.jpg

Discussion Questions:

1.     Do you think that the Japanese government is giving enough attention to the affects of the tsunami?

2.     Do you think that the effects of this national disaster are comparable to Hurricane Katrina?

Do you think events like these strengthen or weaken a n

Japanese Government

Stephanie Buff

Japanese Government

October 15 2012

The structure of the Japanese government has become a point of interest for me, especially in light of the United States election dominating the media. Before doing research, I was completely unaware of how the Japanese government is structured. I discovered that the current federal system is a result of the constitution that was promulgated in 1946 during the occupation by allied powers. Essentially, the government is sectioned into three branches. The branches are the legislature, executive, and judiciary, matching the United states.

            The Japanese legislature consists of a parliament called “the Diet”. The Diet was first convened as the Imperial Diet in 1889 as a result of Japan’s adoption of the Meji constitution. It now consists of the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. The House of Representatives has 480 members and the House of Councillors has 242 members. The House of Representatives is referred to as a lower house, and the House of Councillors is considered the upper house. The Diet is responsible for passing laws, and additionally responsible for selecting the Prime Minisiter. All members are selected on an election basis.

            The executive branch of government contains a cabinet, which is lead by a Prime Minister. Currently, the Japanese prime minister is Yoshihiko Noda. He is appointed by the, “Emperor of Japan” after being selected by the Diet. The emperor is a ceremonial figurehead, and is considered “the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people”. The Emperor does not have legitimate power in the Japanese government, and only exists as a symbolic figure. The executive cabinet consists of the ministers appointed by the Prime minister. The cabinet members are usually members of the legislative Diet as well.

Lastly, the Judiciary branch incorporates the Japanese court system. The highest court is the Supreme Court. Aside from the Supreme Court, there ate district courts, high courts, family courts, and summary courts. The court’s judges are appointed by the executive cabinet. The slogan, “All judges shall be independent in the exercise of their conscience and shall be bound only by this constitution and the Laws”, is a foundation for the entirety of the Judicial branch. Judiciaries may not be removed from the bench unless deemed mentally of physically incompetent.

Elections are another aspect of the Japanese Government. The minimum voting age in Japan is 20 years old. Furthermore, women have been given the right to vote in elections by the new constitution. Elections for the House of Representatives take place every four years and half of the House of Councillors are elected every three years. In addition to national elections, prefectural and municipal elections occur as well.

The Japanese government functions off of a branched system that implements “Checks and Balances”, to distribute power evenly, much like the United States. I was surprised by the similarities between governments, especially since other Asian governments are associated with communist basis. Personally, I find the position of emperor extraneous in Japan, and this is one obvious difference between American and Japanese government.

Discussion Questions:

1.     Do you think that the position of emperor is necessary?

2.     Are you surprised by the structure of the Japanese government?

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2136.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Diet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judicial_system_of_Japan

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prime_Minister_of_Japan

Japanese Social Welfare

Stephanie Buff

Social Welfare

October 8, 2012

            With the upcoming United States presidential election, a focus on federal policy has dominated American attention. In examining the United States political flaws, I have become interested in international comparisons. Specifically, the concept of Social Welfare is one that deserves national attention. Japanese social welfare policies show stark contrast with American policies, and reflect Japanese cultural practices.

            The deep- rooted value of pride that accompanies Japanese culture, most likely dating back to the samurai mentality, affects Japanese government aid programs. The NY Times article, “Welfare as Japan Knows It: A Family Affair”, highlights the sense of shame associated with receiving Japanese government aid. “Scholars say that many people who are eligible for welfare do not apply, because of this sense of shame.” A scenario is given to further enforce this idea, which describes a separate elevator to the welfare floor of a building, which ensures the applicants anonymity when visiting the office. The Japanese are quick to say that those who receive government aid are “lazy”. The article continues to say that there was little sense of entitlement among the Japanese homeless, many of who do not qualify for social welfare.

            The Japanese government distributes financial aid in the form of welfare to approximately one percent of the population. This contrasts the eight percent of the U.S. population that receives some sort of government aid. Of the one percent of Japan that receives welfare, 33% are elderly, 45% were households with sick or disabled members, and 14 % are fatherless families. The remaining 8% fall into another qualifying category.

            Furthermore relating to Government financial policies, a minimum wage act was implemented in 1947, to protect low-income workers. Also, social insurance systems are active, including health insurance, employee pension, unemployment insurance, and workers’ accident compensation insurance.

            The New York Times alludes to the idea that the kin network of family is strengthened in Japan because support from the government is not as strong as the United States for example. It is stated that “Applicants in Japan are obliged to get help first from their families”. This supports the strong emphasis that Japanese culture places on family.

            The flaws of the system, at least as perceived by Nicholas Kristof, the author of the article, are highlighted by the case of Katsuo Kawagoe. Kawagoe is said to live in a cardboard box at the Shinjuku train station. He describes his trip to apply for government aid, stating, “They were not helpful. The only way you can get aid is if you’re over 65 or if you’re really sick and taken to the hospital.” He continues “between racking, tubercular coughs” to say that he will only have a chance once he is over the age of sixty-five. Kawagoe is 53, and has years more of suffering to battle before he can apply again for a chance at help.

            Contrary to the flaws “From some perspectives, this system has worked brilliantly. The country’s already strong family ties have been strengthened, and the main safety net is the family rather than the Government”. Even more impressive, “The number of Japanese in the basic welfare program has declined sharply over the last half century, as people became better off and built up savings.”

Discussion Questions:

1.     Do you think the Japanese system of social welfare seems more effective than the American System?

2.     Do you think the nations’ cultural differences are what make the social welfare systems different?

Works Cited:

http://www.nytimes.com/1996/09/10/world/welfare-as-japan-knows-it-a-family-affair.html?pagewanted=all&src=pm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_welfare_in_Japan

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welfare

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_percentage_of_people_in_US_are_on_welfare

Video Connect Reaction

Video Connect

    The video connect session with the Swedish students was not only an excellent insight into Japanese cultural understanding, but also showcased the contrasts between Swedish, American, and Japanese cultural practices. By discussing these contrasting aspects, it was easier to conceptualize everything we have studied.

            The subject of my small group discussion with Declan-san, Dan-san and Daniel-san (the Swedish student), focused mostly on gender roles in Japan, America and additionally, Sweden. Although Daniel’s microphone made it difficult to understand him, it became clear that woman in Swedish society maintained professional responsibilities, and did not adhere to the rigid roles that are considered normalcy in Japan. Daniel taught us a lot about Swedish tradition during out small group discussion.

            Although the Swedish students contributed a lot about their culture to the discussion, they did not contribute many new topics regarding Japanese society. I am interested in what they are learning in their course on Japanese culture, and I am looking forward to the next video connect.

            There are a few things I would like to see happen in the next video connect that did not happen in this connect. I think it would be interesting to hear more about the Swedish course curriculum in order to see the focal points of their cultural study. By noting what aspects of the culture they focus on, it may be indicative of what values are most prominent in Swedish culture. I particularly enjoy these video sessions because I am taking AS150 to gain further insight into cultural understanding, and these sessions provide knowledge for more than just Japanese cultural understandings. It is also interesting to hear the Gettysburg College students reflections on the curricular studies during the video sessions. 

Reaction Paper

Stephanie Buff

Reaction Paper

September 21, 2012

  

    The past four weeks of Japanese Culture study has provided an extensive basis for cultural understanding. Each week focuses on difference aspects of society that contribute to the rich culture of the Japanese nation.

The first week of studies was an introductory time period, where basic concepts of Japan were introduced. In the video, “Discovery Atlas Japan Revealed”, I received a few noteworthy cultural bases. Primarily, a sense of underlying spirituality became apparent in each cultural aspect described. Specifically, the idea of the appreciation for seasons was emphasized on several occasions. Lastly, the concept of a geisha was revealed, and the rigid nature of the program was telling of a culture that values hard work, respect, and manners.

The second week of cultural inspection focused mainly on Geography and Transportation. Personally, the geographical education was important for receiving an accurate sense of the country. Prior to the geographical learning, I had only been able to visualize Tokyo on a map of Japan. Now, I am aware of the eight regions dividing the island, and the importance of various cities aside from Tokyo, like, Kyoto and Fukushima. For example, Kyoto has a population of approximately one and half million (Mongabay). Furthermore, I can now understand that the country is connected by an intricate railway system that is streamlined with precision and impressive efficiency.

Week three of our course of study focused on House and Family structures. The concepts that were most emphasized included the idea of the IE and gender inequalities. The IE refers to an established form of familial hierarchy, where the elders inevitably receive the most respect. Emmett-san established that the IE is based on patriarchal structure, and that the entire concept is based around ones ancestral history. This idea carried over into the hierarchal family system. Ikuji, or childrearing practices, correlated with the study of family life. This highlighted many of the Japanese ideals, concerned with cooperation and respect. It also touched on the importance of concealing ones emotions, and adhering to social normalcy by way of manners.

Finally, week four focused on Socialization and classification. This centered on more ideas that were brought up in Ikuji, and expanded on these ideas. Uchi and Soto, inside and outside. There are different behavioral practices for each environment respectively, which require a conscious effort too apply manners and control ones expression in a public setting. The idea of kindergarten was brought up as a transitional period for children to enter the public.

Several concepts regarding Japanese culture have become apparent in reflecting on these last four weeks, and outside sources relating to course material. The course material, as well as “Finding Japan” by Robert Reed, bring up many concepts that reinforce my impression that Japanese culture is deeply rooted with traditional practices. Specifically, Finding Japan entitles a chapter “The festivals of the Japanese Year”, and continues to describe traditions of festivities like Japanese New Years (Reed). These celebrations and traditions seem to have a spiritual foundation. Additionally, respect for ones ancestor is a staple of Japanese cultural practice. An Ancestor Worship site articles reiterates, “Despite modern trends, ancestor worship continues to be an important mechanism through which the living feel that they are spiritually connected to the deceased family members, thereby ensuring the continuity of family lineage” (Ancestor Worship). This proves true in ideas we covered in class, like the EI, and familial hierarchy. Furthering my reflection on upcoming course materials will provide an ever understanding into a culture that I previously knew nothing about.  

Discussion Questions:

1.     Do you think the basis of ancestral respect will eventually be lost in Japanese culture?

2.     Do you think that the idea of public behavior inhibits the creation of personal connections in Japanese society?

Works Cited

"Ancestor Worship - Ancestor Worship In Japan." - Family, Japanese, and Ancestors. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Sept. 2012. <http://family.jrank.org/pages/85/Ancestor-Worship-Ancestor-Worship-in-Japan.html>.

Reed, Robert. Finding Japan: A Guide to Seeing Its Beauties and Unlocking Its Mysteries. Tōkyō: J Risāchi Shuppan, 2005. Print.

Japanese vs. American Psychology

Stephanie-san

Japanese Psychology

After reading about “Ikuji”, the Japanese idealogy behind parenting, the concept of Japanese psychology medicine became an area of interest. Psychology class has taught me that children develop in phases, and American parenting methodology is based around psychological studies.  I immediately became interested in how the perspectives on psychological science differed based on culture. American and Japanese psychologists base their studies on different premises due to the differences in culture.

The American Psychological Association’s homepage immediately provides links to the different psychological diseases that are most often diagnosed in the United States (APA). For example, the link for the “stress” condition pages leads to a fact sheet on how to cope with and how to avoid feeling stressed (APA).  Similarly, the link for “anger” leads to another link named “controlling anger before it controls you” (APA).  This promotes the theory that American medicine centers about the idea of preventative medicine as well as treatment of diagnosed disease. The Morita School of Japanese study suggests, “Western medicine is largely based on the control and elimination of symptoms defined as abnormal, undesirable, or disabling” (Morita School). American Medicine falls into this “Western” methodology. Japanese psychologists maintain a different perspective on psychological studies.

“Japanese Psychology differs from traditional Western approaches in how it conceptualizes health” (Morita School). Japanese society takes conditions that we deem undesirable, and categorize them as passages in life (Morita School). “Let’s use depression as an example. In anyone’s lifetime there is a good chance that they will experience some degree of depression” (Morita School). With this theory in mind, Japanese psychology critiques American ideas, asking, “…what is wrong with trying to control these unpleasant events? This approach to life sets up unrealistic change agendas that become problematic when we encounter events beyond our control.” (Morita School). The Morita School of Japanese Psychology supports that scientific evidence suggests that, “people’s change agenda is often at the root of the problem. The more we try to control the uncontrollable, the more our attention gets trapped” (Morita School). These psychologists believe that the fixation on what Western society diagnoses as an illness, is what prevents the afflicted person from recovering (The Morita School). “The more we try to control the uncontrollable, the more our attention gets trapped. We turn our attention away from the basic activities that sustain us (self-care, relationships, and responsibilities) to deal with our feelings” (Morita School). Furthermore, Japanese psychology seems to suggest that difficulty is a natural part of life, but suffering from difficulties is optional. Consequently, the fixation in Western society on treatment of natural feelings may be what leads people to drug-use, eating disorders, and other forms of “risky behavior” (The Morita School). The “Todo” Insitiute reinforces the idea of “Mindfulness and Attention”, as the foundation for the human psyche (Todo).

The Todo Institute elaborates on the idea that attention is of the utmost importance for a healthy mind. Efficient use of attention “can improve concentration, our intimate relationships, our spiritual practice, and our overall mental health” (Todo). Todo even goes as far as to say “What’s at stake is nothing less than our experience of life itself” (Todo). The difference in emphasis on varying aspects of mentality demonstrates the cultural differences present between the United States and Japan.

The more I read and learn about Japanese culture, the greater the difference between Japanese and American mentalities becomes. The sentiment of a spiritual emphasis in Japanese culture has become increasingly apparent with furthering research. Consequently, the American focus on scientific thought processes has become evident. Americans look for answers to what we deem problems, while the Japanese seem to keep faith in the idea that problems are a part of life and do not always require a concrete solution. These realizations are supported by my research of Ikuji, Japanese Medicine, and Psychology.

Discussion Points:

1. Would you consider either method more valid?

2. Does this mean science is less fact than assumed and more up to interpretation?

Works Cited

"About JPA." The Japanese Psychological Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Sept. 2012. <http://www.psych.or.jp/english/index.html>.

"American Psychological Association (APA)." American Psychological Association (APA). N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Sept. 2012. <http://www.apa.org/>.

"JAPANESE PSYCHOLOGY." ABOUT THE MORITA SCHOOL. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Sept. 2012. <http://moritaschool.com/content/japanese-psychology>.

"Mindfulness & Attention." Attention and Mindfulness. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Sept. 2012. <http://www.todoinstitute.org/mindfulness-attention.html>.

My name is Stephanie Buff, and I am a double major in Spanish and English at Gettysburg College. I live just south of Boston, Massachusetts. My interest in Japanese culture comes from my desire to travel, and my interest in cultural studies. I have interest in clinical social work, so my cultural interests often focus on healthcare practices.

Japanese Medicine

Stephanie san

Monday, September 10

As someone who fosters interest in both health care and culture, Japanese medicine is a relevant and pertinent research topic because it incorporates both. The most prominent medicinal method that is associated with Japanese health care is Kampo medicine. Research confirms that America is becoming “more accepting of innovative forms of medical treatment” (Empowered Doctor). Japanese Kampo is one of these innovative forms that has “centuries of affective use (Empowered Doctor).

            Kampo was “originally adapted from Chinese herbal medicine”, and places value on three specific ideas (Empowered Doctor). These ideas include, simplicity, prevention, and safety (Empowered Doctor). Specifically, Kampo consists of three hundred and sixty-five herbal remedies that can be placed into three categories (Empowered Doctor). The first category incorporates the most highly valued remedies, which are the safest, and are also preventative of disease (Empowered Doctor). These prescriptions have minimal side effects, and are intended for long-term use (Empowered Doctor). The second category incorporates methods of treatment for pre-existing condition, as well as prevention of the condition’s recurrence (Empowered Doctor). The third and lowest level of remedy, treats acute or chronic disease, and is administered for shorter duration (Empowered Doctor). The prescribed length is shorter due to the potential for toxic side effects that can result from the nature of the treatment (Empowered Doctor). It is particularly interesting that “most Western allopathic medicines fall into this [final] category” (Empowered Doctor). Kampo is a methodology that is less concerned with the cause of infection, and is more related to patient specific restoration to the body’s natural balance (Empowered Doctor).  Kampo is practiced at the most prominent Japanese health care facilities.

            The top ten Japanese healthcare facilities are listed by “Medical Travel Japan”, and are ranked in the following order: Seirei Hamamatsu General, Kameda Medical Center, Seirei Mikatahara, Kanto Medical Center NTT EC, St. Luke’s Intl., Saiseikai, Masunami General, Kariya General, Asahi General, and Yokoma City University (Medical Travel Japan). All of the hospitals listed are private, and are geographically diverse in location (Medical Travel Japan). I was surprised that only two hospitals on the list are located in Tokyo, and they are ranked fourth and sixth relating to quality of medical care (Medical Travel Japan). I would have assumed that Tokyo, being the prosperous capital of Japan, would have had the most advanced medical facilities in the country. The top hospital is specified to be located in the prefecture, Shizoka. These hospitals are reputable and advanced facilities on an international scale.

            Personally, medical methodology is an affective way to gain insight into a nation’s culture. Often, the spiritual beliefs of a nation are reflected in their medical methodologies. For example, American medicine has no spiritual basis integrated into its’ treatments, which is indicative of our societies lack of emphasis on national spirituality. The spiritual emphasis that Japanese society places on the awareness of the seasons, is evident in Japanese Kampo’s attention to external factors on one’s well being. Furthermore, the connection between cultures is obvious in the American integration of Asian style medicines including acupuncture and Kampo into medical protocols.

AIMC Berkeley, in California, is an American Institution that is “uniquely rooted in Traditional Japanese Medicine” (AIMC Berkeley). AIMC provides education to students regarding Japanese Kampo methods, pediatric care, and acupuncture (AIMC Berkeley). AIMC Berkeley claims to be the best institution for education on Japanese Medicine (AIMC Berkeley). Because Berkeley is one of the most prominent Universities in the nation it indicates an increasing presence of Japanese medicine in the United States.  I am interested to learn more about Japanese culture and medicine by performing more extensive research.

Works Cited

"Japanese Kampo Medicine." Japanese Kampo Medicine. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Sept. 2012. <http://www.empowereddoctor.com/japanese-kampo-medicine>.

"Japanese Medicine." Japanese Medicine. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Sept. 2012. <http://aimc.edu/admissions/why-aimc-berkeley-2/japanese-medicine/>.

"Top 10 Japanese Hospitals (Private)." メディカルツーリズム ジャパン. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Sept. 2012. <http://www.japan-medical-tourism.com/content/top-10-japanese-hospitals-private>.