Japanese Culture: The Religious and Philosophical Foundations

In this clear and concise guide, Davies explains the key religious traditions that influence life in modern Japan. Arguing for a multilayered rather than evolutionary approach and against a strong sense of Japanese exceptionalism, he shows how Shinto, Taoism, Buddhism, Zen, and Confucianism continue to exist alongside one another and combine in unique ways. He organizes his discussion chronologically, so the work also serves well as an introductory history to the Japanese and their waves of contact with the rest of the world. Acknowledging the growing secularity of the country, Davies persuasively shows the continuing deep cultural impact of older traditions. Each chapter includes helpful discussion questions for a classroom setting (some of which assume firsthand familiarity with contemporary Japan). The details are skimpy, but the focus on how religion shapes everyday life makes this book particularly useful for those needing basic practical understanding to do business, travel, or live in Japan, and it's an excellent starting point for anyone curious about how Japan came to be as it is today. (Aug.)