Book description
The first long-term historical-sociological analysis of the development of Japanese martial arts.
Uses the theoretical framework of figurational sociology and draws on rich empirical data.
A new contribution to our understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics of state formation.
Considers the neglected role of women in martial arts.
Why read it?
1 author picked The Historical Sociology of Japanese Martial Arts as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
The Eastern tradition of "sports" is entirely different from the Western (indeed, many practitioners of martial arts in the East don't regard them as competitive sports at all, but disciplines where one competes, in a sense, with oneself). I wrote a piece on the history of karate for Smithsonian Magazine, since it is making its debut in Tokyo in August, and found this book (despite its dry and academic title) to be a fascinating introduction to the surprising growth of Japanese martial arts around the world.
From Tony's list on The best books on the classical world to accompany the 2021 Olympics.
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