Post on 19-Dec-2015
Religion The roles of religion Confucian basis of universal, but non-religious
values Buddhism’s lingering guidance in life and death Shinto’s lingering guidance in birth and life Christianity’s disproportionate influence The search for meaning and a group in new
religions
Religion
• Reflect on whether religion plays a significant role in shaping behavior and enriching life in Japan.
The roles of religion
The search for meaning, spirituality, and salvation
A foundation of universal values, ethics, and rituals
The need for community or groups
Confucian basis of universal, but non-religious values
A secular philosophy of social order and ethics--not a religion
Premodern (Tokugawa period) establishment
Replacement in science, economics and politics by Western rationality
Continuing basis of Japanese social order
Buddhism’s lingering guidance in life and death
Mahayana varieties: esoteric (monastic), salvation, zen
Premodern and modern suppression and use for family registration
Living museums and funeral enriched monks
Influence throughout Japanese life
Shinto’s lingering guidance in birth and life
The creation and destruction of a state religion
Life’s rituals Community festivals Reverence for
nature and purity
Christianity’s disproportionate influence
Historic growth and extermination
Bundled with modernization and Westernization
Offerings: individualism, clarity of ethics, charity, education, rituals
The search for meaning and a group in new religions 180,000 varieties 6 million in Soka Gakkai The significance of Aum Shinrikyo’s extremism?
Sumo do, Sumo don’t (Shiko funjatta)1. When the two sumo wrestlers go to recruit others wrestlers,
why does the experienced sumo wrestler not have to wear the mawashi (sumo jockstrap)?
2. Why does the new pro-wrestler Cutie Haruo have to dress like a girl?
3. The tatemae of the Kyoritsu sumo club is their participation in the tournament like all other clubs. What is the honne of the sumo club?
4. What will determine whether the male star (of the film) graduates from University?
5. Briefly explain the conflict between continuity and change expressed in this film?
6. Choose one character to explain the relationship between the individual and the group.
7. Does Smiley understand Japanese religion?