Customer Reviews

Behind the Japanese Bow

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The author has written quite a few books on how Japanese persons behave, but this one goes a level deeper to try and explain why they act the way they do. To do this, he puts forth the concept of analyzing behavior through the lense of kata, forms for the proper way of doing things in a Japanese context. Using this as his key, he outlines what he sees as about 15 influential kata patterns and how they've been incorporated into various levels of Japanese society. Going beyond mere description, he offers a critique of the weaknesses of a kata based culture, and gives some idea how things will change as the kata patterns are weakened by foreign influences.

Interesting tidbits, like any book, but I thought this book was stereotypical japanologist..., and this is the exact type of book japanophiles should steer far, far away from. I didn't find his explanations for "kata" a reason why japanese culture is the "superior society". Nor he does he explain "kata" in dilligent detail. This book really wasn't about japanese bows anyway. While I don't doubt De Mente has written some good books, I think this book was his attempt at flattering and complimenting japan for cash.

Boye Lafayette De Mente has a handle on the origins of Japanese culture and conveys that knowledge in a fascinating manner. Just buy it!!

Truly the best book I have ever read on Japan.