The Japanese in the Western Mind: A Psychological History of the Cultural Other

This book explores Western perceptions and representations of Japanese culture and society, drawing on social and cultural psychological ideas around stereotypes and intercultural relations. It examines the West's intercultural relationship with Japan, and how this has changed over time, to show how the Japanese have been represented in the Western mind throughout history. It argues that our view of other cultures is based on our own cultural expectations and highlights the research through accounts of Westerners about the Japanese to reveal how cultural representations can influence intercultural communication and understanding.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 16 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into a profound exploration of Western perceptions and representations of Japanese culture and society, drawing upon a rich tapestry of social and cultural psychological ideas surrounding stereotypes and intercultural relations. Hinton takes a thoughtful approach, examining how the West perceives the Japanese as a distinct and ideologically different "other," and proposes a cultural theory of stereotypes as a framework for understanding Western observations of the Japanese. The book seamlessly integrates Edward Said's renowned theory of Orientalism, providing a comprehensive examination of Western socio-cultural representations of Japan. It delves into the intricate dynamics of the West's intercultural relationship with Japan, tracing the evolution of these representations over time. By meticulously analyzing these historical narratives, Hinton sheds light on how the Japanese have been portrayed in the Western mind throughout history, from ancient times to the present day.

Hinton's central argument revolves around the notion that our perception of other cultures is deeply influenced by our own cultural expectations, which are fraught with complex issues of meaning-making and perceived cultural differences. Through a series of compelling accounts from Westerners about the Japanese, the book highlights the profound impact that cultural representations can have on intercultural communication. It reveals how these representations can shape the ways in which people from different cultures interact, leading to either mutual understanding or misunderstandings.

By reflecting on the shifting Western representations of the Japanese and the underlying factors that have shaped these representations, this book offers valuable insights to students, academics, and general readers alike. It serves as a thought-provoking exploration of stereotypes, cultural psychology, intercultural communication, anthropology, and Japanese culture and history. By delving into the complexities of cross-cultural interactions, this book encourages readers to develop a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human experiences and to cultivate a more nuanced understanding of the world around us.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367534677