Rise of Japan

Author: Li Peilin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: Renowned American anthropologist Paul R. Ehrlich, in his classic work "The Chrysanthemum and the Sword," argued that the cultural characteristics of the Japanese are distinct from the Western "culture of guilt," being a "culture of shame." They are "warlike yet peaceful, silent in matters of martial prowess yet fond of beauty, arrogant yet respectful of etiquette, rigid yet adaptable, submissive yet stubborn, loyal yet rebellious, brave yet prone to weakness, conservative yet fond of novelty—all these contradictory traits are expressed to a high degree." American sociologist Ezra F. Vogel published the book "Japan's Ascent: How the Japanese Economy Revived Itself and the West Can Profit" in 1979, which brought him fame alongside Japan's rise. However, just as the "Japanese model" was gaining popularity, the bubble burst, leading to a sharp decline in stock markets and real estate, and Japan entered a decade-long period of economic stagnation and recession. Faced with numerous challenges, Professor Vogel wrote a new book, "Japan Still Ascending?," in 2000. In it, he detailed his earlier research process and the basis for his judgments. He explained that the purpose of writing the book was to tell Americans that there were aspects they should learn from Japan, and he never believed that Japan's current crisis meant failure.