240 pp. May 1997
paper, ISBN 978-0-8248-1967-5, $22.00
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Keywords: |
Japan
Asia
history
anthropology
sociology
textbook |
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Japan: Why It Works, Why It Doesn't
ed. by James Mak; Shyam Sunder; Shigeyuki Abe; Kazuhiro Igawa
A Latitude 20 Book
"A useful and engaging look at how the Japanese live their lives, and the institutions via which they do so.... A genuinely good read, one loaded with insights and details that make understanding Japan and the Japanese less clouded by misconceptions and stereotypes." --Asian Thought and Society"Every visitor to Japan notices many living and working arrangements that seem unusual--and often are. The authors have made a remarkable effort to explain these anomalies as rational responses to Japanese rules and regulations. Every curious visitor will benefit from, and enjoy, their lively effort." --Allan H. Meltzer, Carnegie Mellon University
This collection of twenty-six essays furnishes concise explanations of everyday Japanese life in simplified economic terms. They begin with such questions as, Do Japanese live better than Americans? Why don't Japanese workers claim all their overtime? Why don't Japanese use personal checking accounts? Why do Japanese give and receive so many gifts? The essays are written in non-technical, accessible language intended for the undergraduate or advanced placement high school student taking an economics course or studying Japan in a social science course. The general reader will find the book a fascinating compendium of facts on Japanese culture and daily life.
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