The first day that I stepped into AS150 was a mind opening experience. I
had no idea what to expect not knowing anything specific about Japanese
Culture. But, as class continued I started to learn the outlines of an
extremely interesting culture based on respect and technology. One that was
still connected with its past while moving into the future growing into one of
the economic power houses in the world.
The topic that I wanted to discuss in this reaction paper is the Ikuji,
which are the childrearing practices in Japan. This topic struck me because of
the juxtaposition that it has with American childrearing practices. The
Japanese believe that childrearing occurs from imitation instead of telling a
child to do something. Also, that the parents authority is not as important. The
biggest angle in this discussion that struck me was the ability to compromise
with children instead of making a child do something. I personally believe that
this is a great way of doing something. It teaches the child that compromise is
a huge tool within the world. Another angle was the use of empathy. Telling
children that everything has a spirit teaches the children to treat everything
with respect. This to me shows children they need to have an overall respectful
view of the world. Giving their society as a whole a better view on the world.
Questions
How do you believe Ikuji plays a role in Japanese?
How could Ikuji be used in America?
I definitely agree that empathy is very important. It is a good way to teach a child because it causes them to respect things and people because they see the reasoning why, not simply because it would be against the rules to do otherwise.
ReplyDeleteEmpathy is definitely important and people in the United States should use it more often. People then will grow up and be more respectful to their surroundings and to people that they meet. People in the United States often struggle with this.
ReplyDelete