Alternative Virtues

Incorporating various perspectives on the Japanese notion of virtue, Alternative Virtues investigates and expands our current understanding of virtue and presents a foundational case study of an alternative approach to virtues.

The study of virtue has long been dominated by a Western cultural (i.e., Christian) and/ or far-Eastern cultural (i.e., Confucianism) point of view. However, Japanese thinkers and scholars have struggled with these traditions. And although the rise of cultural intermingling has created a unique culture and code of values in Japan, these virtues have grown from their own historical and cultural origins and sources other than the Christian and Confucian traditions. Viewed through the filter of Japanese history and culture, and focusing on different contexts in Japan, the book investigates both moral and epistemic virtues as well as discussing the practical and educational implications that such alternative virtues may have on our lives, with the goal of reforming the current research trends in virtue theory and encouraging the wider public to consider the notion of virtue from a fresh perspective.

Due to the content and scope of the book, it will appeal to a variety of readers — both locally and internationally — interested not only in Japanese historical, cultural and philosophical investigations of virtues, but also those wanting to learn more about alternative perspectives on virtues and Japan itself. This readership includes scholars and university students (both undergraduate and postgraduate) in the fields of philosophy and education, and educational practitioners interested in teaching virtues and values in schools.