The Eight Core Values of the Japanese Businessman: Toward an Understanding of Japanese Management

This book, based on the preliminary Japanese language report prepared by researchers associated with the Japanese Management Association, explores the 'psychological, cultural or emotional underpinnings that influence the behaviour and thinking of the Japanese businessperson' (page ix). The book identifies eight core values as the ones most commonly shared by Japanese in the business world and, to a lesser extent, Japanese people who are not engaged in business. The chapter titles, representing the eight core values, are (1) Group Orientation, (2) Diligence, (3) Aesthetics and Perfectionism, (4) Curiosity and Emphasis on Innovation, (5) Respect for Form and Hana Yori Dango (a preference for material rewards over recognition), (6) A Mind for Competition and Outlook for Rewards, (7) Silence as Eloquence, and (8) Perception of Time. The final chapter brings all of the values together, and examines how they are being affected by the changes taking place in Japan today.

As one proceeds from the chapter titles to the contents of the book, it becomes clear that this is an idealized account of what it means to be a good Japanese person...