Social Sciences Department
 

Humanities 310 Japanese Culture Office: FOB 12F Spring 2009 Phone: 756-6261 Dr. Barbara Mori  Office Hours: W 2-4:00,  TR 8-9:00 email me at: bmori@calpoly.edu [or by appointment]

GOALS: Japan, its ancient culture and modern society, has intrigued Americans for years.  The beauty of its art forms has inspired Western artists and the modernity of its cities and way of life have challenged Western notions of success.  The emphasis on harmony and group loyalty has raised questions concerning the primacy of some Western values in producing a creative and competitive society. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the underlying values and practices of Japanese society as expressed in the traditional and modern arts. The relationship of the group to the individual in society, the aesthetic values, and the expression of creativity within the culture will be examined.  Students will explore social change and constancy in traditional arts of theatre (Noh, Kabuki, Bunraku), ikebana (flower arranging), gardening and tea ceremony (chado) and the introduction of Western ideas through cinema, comics (manga), and animation (anime).

FOCUS:   We will be exploring the following questions through lecture, readings and films.  Therefore attendance is very important: 1) What does it mean to be Japanese?  What is the basis for Japanese cultural identity?  How do you live your life if you are Japanese?  How do you relate to the universe/ world as a Japanese?  How does participation in Japanese cultural activities provide you with a sense of “Japanese-ness”?

Student Learning Outcomes

Achieve an international/global perspective of cultures and societies along with knowledge of other social and cultural systems.

Develop an understanding and appreciation of Japanese society and culture.

Develop an understanding of the various social problems facing modern Japan.

Develop an understanding of the importance of family, religion (Shinto, Buddhism) and community in Japanese culture.

Demonstrate the writing skills necessary to communicate effectively in their work

This course requires classroom participation.  Students will be expected to prepare the readings before class, arrive on time for class, answer questions and participate in discussion and attend regularly.
 

Schedule		Grading		Written Assignments
	Texts		Films		Exams

course evaluations
 

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