Japanese Communication
Ishin-Denshin
“What the mind thinks, the heart transmits.”
Every culture, nations, subculture, group, and even family is different and has its own pattern of communication as well as specific gestures and customs. Some may resemble more to the other and certain may be unique as the Japanese culture. As Team C we have decided to study the Japanese culture as we find it exciting and the most unknown from our personal experience.
Ishin-Denshin stands for “what the mind thinks, the heart transmits” which is proving on how non-verbal communication is essential in Japanese everyday communication. Japanese are believed to use words only as part of message; they consider silence, mood, pauses in-between words and body language as an essential part of the transmitted message. They are also known for not saying “no” very often, as they believe in so called “Wa” standing for purity or harmony. By not saying “no” or not stating something unpleasant they attempt to avoid arguments and conflicts. Silence is also used to lower stress and tension. Therefore when Japanese are silent It may mean agreement but also disagreement. They are also believed not to give straight answers that may be frustrating to western people. In Japan every decision has its time and hierarchical process, which has to be kept.
There are also two terms that should be listed: tatemae, which is statement spoken publically and “honne” meaning the real feeling of the person. These two may be opposed. Feedback is important through out the communication to show your attention and interest, however again less is frequently better than more, too many comments may be considered as being rude. That’s why the ability to see other signs and learn about the culture is important.
In western culture when talking to others we should look into the eyes, which is considered to be prove of respect and attention. Au contrary in Japanese culture the eye contact is believed to be rude and even agressinve, same as for
“What the mind thinks, the heart transmits.”
Every culture, nations, subculture, group, and even family is different and has its own pattern of communication as well as specific gestures and customs. Some may resemble more to the other and certain may be unique as the Japanese culture. As Team C we have decided to study the Japanese culture as we find it exciting and the most unknown from our personal experience.
Ishin-Denshin stands for “what the mind thinks, the heart transmits” which is proving on how non-verbal communication is essential in Japanese everyday communication. Japanese are believed to use words only as part of message; they consider silence, mood, pauses in-between words and body language as an essential part of the transmitted message. They are also known for not saying “no” very often, as they believe in so called “Wa” standing for purity or harmony. By not saying “no” or not stating something unpleasant they attempt to avoid arguments and conflicts. Silence is also used to lower stress and tension. Therefore when Japanese are silent It may mean agreement but also disagreement. They are also believed not to give straight answers that may be frustrating to western people. In Japan every decision has its time and hierarchical process, which has to be kept.
There are also two terms that should be listed: tatemae, which is statement spoken publically and “honne” meaning the real feeling of the person. These two may be opposed. Feedback is important through out the communication to show your attention and interest, however again less is frequently better than more, too many comments may be considered as being rude. That’s why the ability to see other signs and learn about the culture is important.
In western culture when talking to others we should look into the eyes, which is considered to be prove of respect and attention. Au contrary in Japanese culture the eye contact is believed to be rude and even agressinve, same as for