Sources of Japanese Tradition, Abridged - (Introduction to Asian Civilizations) 2nd Edition,Abridged (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

For almost fifty years, Sources of Japanese Tradition has been the single most valuable collection of English-language readings on Japan. Unrivalled in its wide selection of source materials on history, society, politics, education, philosophy, and religion, the two-volume textbook is a crucial resource for students, scholars, and readers seeking an introduction to Japanese civilization.

Originally published in a single hardcover book, Volume 2 is now available as an abridged, two-part paperback. Part 1 covers the Tokugawa period to 1868, including texts that address the spread of neo-Confucianism and Buddhism and the initial encounters of Japan and the West. Part 2 begins with the Meiji period and ends at the new millennium, shedding light on such major movements as the Enlightenment, constitutionalism, nationalism, socialism, and feminism, and the impact of the postwar occupation. Commentary by major scholars and comprehensive bibliographies and indexes are included.

Together, these readings map out the development of modern Japanese civilization and illuminate the thought and teachings of its intellectual, political, and religious leaders.

Review Quotes

"Sources of Japanese Tradition is a treasure." -- John W. Dower

"The volumes of Sources of Japanese Tradition have proved to be invaluable guides to the study of Japanese history and culture. Its publication is welcome news to all those who are interested in the origins of contemporary Japanese society and culture." -- Akira Iriye

About the Author

Wm. Theodore de Bary (1919-2017) was John Mitchell Mason Professor Emeritus and provost emeritus of Columbia University. His many books include Waiting for the Dawn, Message of the Mind, and Learning for One's Self, as well as Sources of Japanese Tradition and Sources of Korean Tradition, all published by Columbia University Press.

Carol Gluck is the George Sansom Professor of History at Columbia University. She is the author of Japan's Modern Myths: Ideology in the Late Meiji Period.

Arthur Tiedemann is a member of the Society of Senior Scholars at the Heyman Centre for the Humanities, Columbia University. He is the author of Modern Japan: A Brief History.