Exploring the 3 Main Cultural Values in Japan: Harmony, Respect, and Hierarchy
When it comes to cultural values, Japan has a unique set of principles that govern the way of life of its people. These values are deeply ingrained in the Japanese psyche and are reflected in their everyday behaviour, customs, and traditions.
In this article, we will explore the three main cultural values in Japan – harmony, respect, and hierarchy – and how they shape the society we see in Japan today.
Harmony
In Japan, harmony (or wa in Japanese) is more than just a simple concept; it is a way of life. Harmony emphasizes the need for people to coexist peacefully and respectfully with one another, regardless of personal differences.
This concept is evident in Japanese workplaces, where teamwork, cooperation, and collaboration are highly emphasized. The purpose of this is to create a cohesive and unified environment where members can work together effectively towards a common goal.
Even in social situations, the Japanese value harmony above everything else. For example, most Japanese people will avoid confrontation at all costs, preferring to find a compromise or agreeable solution rather than create conflict.
Respect
The value of respect (or keii in Japanese) is perhaps the most well-known of Japan’s cultural values. Respect in Japan is not just given to those in authority positions, but to everyone, regardless of age or status.
This cultural value is evident in many aspects of Japanese life. For example, bowing when greeting someone is a common practice in Japan and is seen as a sign of respect. In addition, the Japanese people are known for their orderly and disciplined behavior, which is a reflection of their respect for others.
Respect is also deeply rooted in the Japanese language. The use of honorifics, such as -san, -sama, or -sensei, is an essential part of Japanese communication and shows respect for the person being addressed.
Hierarchy
The value of hierarchy (or kouhai-sempai) emphasizes the importance of social status, seniority, and authority in Japanese society. This value is evident in Japanese businesses and organizations, where seniority is highly respected.
The Japanese workplace operates on a hierarchical system, where one’s position in the company determines their level of authority and decision-making power. This system emphasizes respect for those in higher positions and calls for those in lower positions to demonstrate obedience and dedication to their superiors.
Similarly, there is a clear hierarchy in Japanese schools and universities, where upperclassmen are given greater authority and respect than their younger counterparts.
In Conclusion
The three main cultural values in Japan – harmony, respect, and hierarchy – are deeply ingrained in Japanese society and shape the behavior and attitudes of its people. Understanding these values is critical to effectively understanding Japan and its people. By practicing these values ourselves, we can learn to be respectful, harmonious, and well-ordered in our daily lives, just like the Japanese do.
