Customer Reviews

Think No Evil: Korean Values in the Age of Globalization

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I found this book in a bookstore near Myong-dong in Seoul, South Korea. I was attracted by the subtitle first. Having just read "The Lexus And The Olive Tree", I wanted to know more about Koreans' opinions on globalization. Since December, 1997, Koreans have used the term "IMF" synonymously with "recession". The Korean press has not done an adequate job reporting the causes of the 1997 recession. Therefore, terms like "IMF Crisis" and even using "IMF" for "sale" (as small businesses folded), have smothered intelligent debate on the economic aspects of a very complicated subject. Alford's book attempts to understand this curious phenomenon. But, I was most interested by Alford's connection between evil and globalization.

Koreans are very nationalistic, which tends to create a parochial frame of mind. Globalization is a sometimes contentious issue for Koreans, and frustration is not uncommon. It is difficult for non-Koreans to understand Korean thinking, because of the barriers such parochial thinking creates, but also because Korean and Western thinking is so different. Alford manages to maintain criticality without being close-minded.

This book, at 186 pages, is a quick read, but it is thick with academic jargon. However, Alford manages to lightly tread over abtuse debates in linguistics, psychology, philosophy, and economics, because the heart of his research is interviews with real people. His anecdotes are amusing, especially for someone who knows Korean and has met Koreans. Readers unacquainted with Korea or Koreans should pay attention to the answers the respondents gave, to best appreciate Korean culture. Alford has a knack for leading the reader through the tactical shifts of his arguments as he confronts new data. Alford also responsibly provides a research appendix, notes, and an index.

This book is a competent academic research book which also tries to reveal the mind of the author. The subject matter is topical, but philosophical at the same time. His discussion of the Korean and Confucian concept of "chong" (skinship or harmony) is both respectful and accessible to non-Koreans. Because of his research methodology, it is hard not to find humor in this very serious subject. This is serious reading with respect and humor for a culture often hostile to foreigners.