瀧澤 文雄

The purpose of this paper is to show clearly what our view of the human body in Japan is and how the present view of the human body is constructed. This study is considered from a phenomenological standpoint. The outline of this consideration is as follows: This document classifies the views of the human body as found in modern Japanese society. Using concrete examples to illustrate current ideas, this paper argues the modern view is not same as views held in the past. Furthermore, the background of this change is considered with reference to recent social change. Additionally, consideration is given to an original view of the human body in Japan which remains basically, in spite of the process of globalization which is said to reduce cultural originality.<br>The conclusion of this paper is that the Japanese had the view the body was a gift presented by nature and that nature was like a God. This body was in continuous harmony with the nature, and it was not to be treated as goods. This view is rare now and people perceive the body as the vessel of one's mind. The vessel itself has come to have a higher material value than in the past. Also, the idea of individual personality has become the same as the vessel which has valuable goods in distribution. In modern Japan, it can be said that the view of human body as goods is the main stream. The background of this view comes from the development of science, knowledge imparted by school education and the influence of science journalism. These influences encourage people to gaze at the body analytically from a scientific viewpoint. Nevertheless, Japanese still have a world view of plural cosmology-a world of multiple Gods and natural forces. These ideas are continually affecting our view of the body, although many people are unconscious of it. The Japanese modern view of the human body is problematic, because it lacks the idea of "the human body as a function", that realizes good life.