Description
Book SynopsisGlobalization, understood as an intensification of modernism, has over the past fifty years been a powerful force for cultural change. This study examines how one aspect of globalization, Hollywood films, influences Japanese thinking as regards to human-nature relationships. A critical discourse analysis of the most popular cinematic texts in Japan during a five-year period (1997_2001) uncovers the latent ideologies and messages linked to a modern worldview. This interdisciplinary work evaluates the influence of these films by way of a descriptive survey of Japanese culture; data from a university student focus group; and an analysis of linguistic, behavioral, and attitudinal changes toward environmental issues. A holistic approach to curricular reform that grounds ecological principles in traditional perceptions of nature is proffered as a way of countering exogenous influences while restoring a sense of balance to the culture-ecosystem.
Table of ContentsPart 1 Preface Part 2 Acknowledgements Chapter 3 1. Theoretical Web Chapter 4 2. Two Views of the World Chapter 5 3. Communication, Culture, and Ecology Chapter 6 4. An Interdisciplinary Approach to Text Analysis Chapter 7 5. Aliens and Asteroids as Adversaries Chapter 8 6. The End of the Earth Chapter 9 7. The Eco-Logic of Japanese Culture Chapter 10 8. Instances of Secondary Succession Chapter 11 9. Signs of Social Change Chapter 12 10. The Earth as Educator Part 13 Appendix A Part 14 Appendix B Part 15 References Part 16 Index Part 17 About the Author
