Japan and the U.S. are increasingly interdependent. Perhaps the most dramatic examples of interdependence are seen in the automobile industry, where joint ventures and overseas manufacturing have created an intricate web. Interdependence will continue to grow in the political realm where Japan has been an ally of the U.S. for the past four decades. The study of Japan has important multicultural dimensions. As a result, numerous school systems are calling for increased study of Japan in order to facilitate cross- cultural understanding, and many are offering a Japanese language course.
Mutual understanding continues to be illusive.
Attempts to examine aspects of Japanese culture sometimes simply result in the exchange of one stereotype for another. What is needed is an exploration of the historical, economic, geographic, and sociological reasons behind what seems to be a propensity for group orientation. Unfortunately, many textbooks continue to present a facile interpretation of this and other aspects of Japanese culture. Strategies for Teaching about Japan Teaching about Japan can be appropriate at every level of the curriculum and in virtually every subject. The suggested strategies below can help ensure cultural accuracy when teaching about Japan.