Debating Otaku in Contemporary Japan: Historical Perspectives and New Horizons (SOAS Studies in Modern and Contemporary Japan)
$49.95
Description
Book Synopsis: With the spread of manga (Japanese comics) and anime (Japanese cartoons) around the world, many have adopted the Japanese term 'otaku' to identify fans of such media. The connection to manga and anime may seem straightforward, but, when taken for granted, often serves to obscure the debates within and around media fandom in Japan since the term 'otaku' appeared in the niche publication Manga Burikko in 1983.
Debating Otaku in Contemporary Japan disrupts the naturalization and trivialization of 'otaku' by examining the historical contingency of the term as a way to identify and contain problematic youth, consumers and fan cultures in Japan. Its chapters, many translated from Japanese and available in English for the first time – and with a foreword by Otsuka Eiji, former editor of Manga Burikko – explore key moments in the evolving discourse of 'otaku' in Japan.
Rather than presenting a smooth, triumphant narrative of the transition of a subculture to the mainstream, the edited volume repositions 'otaku' in specific historical, social and economic contexts, providing new insights into the significance of the 'otaku' phenomenon in Japan and the world. By going back to original Japanese documents, translating key contributions by Japanese scholars and offering sustained analysis of these documents and scholars, Debating Otaku in Contemporary Japan provides alternative histories of and approaches to 'otaku'.
For all students and scholars of contemporary Japan and the history of Japanese fan and consumer cultures, this volume will be a foundation for understanding how 'otaku', at different places and times and to different people, is meaningful.
Details
Are you a fan of Japanese manga and anime? Have you ever wondered about the history and cultural significance of the term 'otaku'? Look no further than "Debating Otaku in Contemporary Japan: Historical Perspectives and New Horizons." This groundbreaking book, part of the SOAS Studies in Modern and Contemporary Japan series, dives deep into the debates surrounding 'otaku' in Japan, shedding light on its origins and exploring its evolution over time.
With the global popularity of manga and anime, 'otaku' has become a widely used term to describe fans of these media. However, what many don't realize is that the meaning of 'otaku' goes far beyond its association with manga and anime. "Debating Otaku in Contemporary Japan" challenges the common misconceptions and delves into the complex and often controversial nature of 'otaku' as a cultural phenomenon.
Through a meticulous examination of the historical context, this book uncovers the ways in which 'otaku' has been used to label and marginalize certain youth, consumers, and fan cultures in Japan. It disrupts the notion that 'otaku' is a simple, harmless label, instead revealing the intricate web of societal issues it represents.
Featuring chapters translated from Japanese for the first time, "Debating Otaku in Contemporary Japan" offers a fresh perspective on the significance of 'otaku' in Japan and the world. By revisiting original Japanese documents and providing insightful analysis, this book allows you to explore alternative histories and approaches to understanding 'otaku'.
Whether you are a student, scholar, or simply a fan interested in the cultural intricacies of Japan, this book is a must-have. It provides a solid foundation for comprehending the multifaceted nature of 'otaku' and its impact on contemporary Japanese society. Don't miss out on the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating subculture.
Ready to uncover the hidden truths of 'otaku'? Start your journey by diving into "Debating Otaku in Contemporary Japan: Historical Perspectives and New Horizons." Get your copy now and embark on a fascinating exploration of Japanese fan and consumer cultures!
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