Course Description

Japanese social relationships are said to be based on “dualistic communication.” For example, “daijoubu” (OK) or “iiyo” (all right) could mean Yes or No depending on the situation. This type of communication which obscures the speaker’s real intention and stays away from causing friction with others is a part of Japanese aesthetics. However, this communication style confuses people in foreign countries and may cause cross-cultural friction. In this class, students learn both the advantages and disadvantages of Japanese communication by comparing it with communication in other countries.