The Gift of Generations: Japanese and American Perspectives on Aging and the Social Contract [Paperback]

Akiko Hashimoto (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 13, 1996 | ISBN-10: 0521555205 | ISBN-13: 978-0521555203 | Edition: 1

The Gift of Generations is a comparative study of aging and the social contract in Japan and the United States. By using original, systematically comparable data collected in these countries, the book explores the different cultural definitions of vulnerability and giving, and the ways they shape and constrain the social strategies of routinizing helping arrangements. The book succeeds in interweaving the theory and practice of the social contract by developing the concept of symbolic equity.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"In this clearly conceived and well-written book the author shows how different cultural assumptions about old age influence family and household behaviour patterns and social policy in the two richest nations....Her book makes an important contribution to our understanding of complex modern societies. It should be required reading for all those with an interest in aging and social policy." The Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute

"Overall, this book flows logically and is very easy to follow....It is hoped that many researchers will build upon the outcomes of this superb book." Noriko Tsukada, Social Gerontology

"The Gift of Generations is written in many voices. The organization of this book flows in and out of these voices, and helps the reader understand the context and transformations of growing old in these two rapidly changing countries. The writing is scholarly and masterful..." Dana H. Davidson, Contemporary Sociology

"Hashimoto contributes a deep and measured understanding of differences between U.S. and Japanese attitudes toward care of the elderly. Placing her study within the human dilemma of balancing egoism and altruism, Hashimoto contrasts dispositions toward deservedness, self-sufficiency, and dependency. The Gift of Generations is very valuable for its clear thinking on an issue of great relevance." American Anthropologist

"The comparison [Hashimoto] draws out is both concrete and philosophical. We not only gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between culture and policy in Japan, but also a greater appreciation of the extent to which American values influence both the expectations of citizens and the making of policy in this country..." Susan O. Long, Ph.D., The Gerontologist

"The author does an excellent job of identifying the concepts and cultural assumptions that define the contract between generations..." Emily M. Agree, American Journal of Sociology

Book Description

Using original, systematically comparable data collected in Japan and the United States, this study explores the different cultural definitions of vulnerability and giving, and the ways they shape and constrain the social strategies of routinizing helping arrangements for the aged.

Product Details

• Paperback: 248 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press; 1 edition (June 13, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521555205
• ISBN-13: 978-0521555203
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.9 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,817,386 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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