Glossary
Ainu
The Ainu are an indigenous ethnic group primarily from Hokkaido, Japan, known for their distinct language, spiritual beliefs, and cultural practices.
Example:
Learning about the Ainu people's traditional bear ceremonies provides insight into their unique spiritual connection with nature.
Burakumin
The Burakumin are a social minority group in Japan who historically faced severe discrimination due to their ancestral occupations, though legal discrimination has ended.
Example:
Understanding the historical challenges faced by the Burakumin helps shed light on issues of social justice and human rights in Japan.
Ethnic Identity
Ethnic identity refers to a person's sense of belonging to a particular ethnic group, often based on shared ancestry, culture, language, or traditions.
Example:
The Ainu people maintain a distinct ethnic identity through their unique language, traditional ceremonies, and artistic expressions.
Group Cohesion and Shared Responsibility
This concept highlights the strong bonds within Japanese groups and the collective accountability members feel towards the group's success and well-being.
Example:
In a Japanese company, employees often feel a strong sense of group cohesion and shared responsibility, leading them to stay late to help colleagues finish a project.
Harmony (Wa 和)
Harmony, or 'wa' (和), is a fundamental Japanese value emphasizing peaceful unity, cooperation, and the avoidance of conflict within groups and society.
Example:
During group projects, Japanese students often prioritize harmony by seeking consensus and ensuring everyone's opinion is considered to avoid discord.
Historical Isolation (Japan)
Japan's historical isolation refers to periods, particularly the Edo period, when the country intentionally limited foreign contact, significantly shaping its unique cultural development.
Example:
The distinct evolution of Japanese art forms like Ukiyo-e was partly due to the country's historical isolation, which fostered unique internal artistic trends.
Japaneseness
Japaneseness refers to the unique cultural characteristics, values, and behaviors that are widely considered to define what it means to be Japanese.
Example:
The emphasis on politeness, respect for elders, and a deep appreciation for nature are often cited as core aspects of Japaneseness.
National Identity (Japan)
Japan's national identity is a collective sense of belonging and shared characteristics, built upon its unique history, culture, and societal values like unity and tradition.
Example:
The annual cherry blossom viewing, or hanami, reinforces a sense of national identity among Japanese people, connecting them through shared cultural appreciation.
Personal Identity
In Japan, personal identity is often deeply connected to an individual's family and the various groups they belong to, emphasizing belonging over individualism.
Example:
For many Japanese students, their personal identity is strongly tied to their school club, like the kendo team, where they develop close bonds and a sense of belonging.
Public Identity
Public identity in Japan is largely shaped by societal expectations and the strong cultural emphasis on maintaining social harmony and fulfilling one's role.
Example:
When interacting with elders, a Japanese student's public identity might involve showing extreme politeness and respect, aligning with societal norms.
Ryukyuan
The Ryukyuan people are an indigenous ethnic group native to the Ryukyu Islands (including Okinawa), possessing a unique culture influenced by both Japanese and Chinese traditions.
Example:
The vibrant traditional dances and music of Okinawa are a testament to the distinct cultural heritage of the Ryukyuan people.
Tradition
In the Japanese context, tradition refers to long-standing customs, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations, forming a core part of cultural identity and daily life.
Example:
Participating in a tea ceremony, or sadō, is a way to engage with a profound Japanese tradition that emphasizes mindfulness and aesthetic appreciation.
Unity
Unity in Japan refers to the collective cohesion and solidarity among people, often stemming from a shared national identity and common goals.
Example:
After a natural disaster, the rapid and organized community response demonstrates the strong sense of unity among Japanese citizens working together for recovery.
Yamato People
The Yamato people are the dominant ethnic group in Japan, comprising approximately 98% of the population, and are central to the mainstream Japanese cultural identity.
Example:
Most of the traditional Japanese festivals and customs observed today originated with the Yamato people.