On the Process of Civilisation in Japan

“On the Process of Civilisation in Japan is one of the most important books that have recently been written from an Eliasian perspective. … [T]he author successfully demonstrates that Norbert Elias’s figurational theory can be applied to Asian countries like Japan, encouraging us to build new sociological models on that basis.”

—Akira Ohira, Professor Emeritus, Waseda University, Japan

“… His work is grounded in a thorough understanding of the comparative and historical theory of civilization and a deep knowledge of the evolution of Japanese society – a unique combination that makes this study an indispensable source for students of Japan and for anyone interested in the process of civilization across continents.”

—Abram de Swaan, Professor Emeritus, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands

“This important book uses Norbert Elias’s theory of civilising processes to interpret the broad sweep of Japanese history … A most ingenious feature, in the absence of Japanese counterparts to European ‘manners books’, is the detailed account of the long-term development of the celebrated Japanese ‘tea ceremony’.”

—Stephen Mennell, Professor Emeritus, University College Dublin, Ireland

This book charts the process of civilisation in Japan. Using the theory of civilising processes developed by Norbert Elias, the author examines the complex underlying structural and psychological processes from the seventh century to the twentieth century. Furthermore, by drawing on rich historical data, the author illustrates how these complex processes led the Japanese to see themselves as ‘more civilised’ than their forebears and neighbouring countries. Although the theory serves as an important reference point, the author draws on other works to address different complex questions surrounding Japanese development. Therefore, this book presents three key themes: first, it gives an alternative understanding of the complex developments of Japanese society; second, it intercedes into an ongoing debate about the applicability of Elias’s theory in a non-Western context; and third, it expands Elias’s theory.

Wai Lau is Researcher in Sociology at the University of Manchester, UK.