丸山眞男「古層」論の現代的意義

概要

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What would be a way to reveal historical characteristics of Japanese ideas or culture? To answer this question, Masao Maruyama devised a theory of ‘‘koso’’. This term could be translated into ‘‘old layer’’ in English. By this, he means ‘a obstinate repeated pattern of ideas and feelings.’ This concept had been revealed in three categories: ethical values, historical values, and political values. However, there are various criticisms against this approach. This paper will take a look at problems of circular argument, concept of nation states, and the presence of an archetype for thought pattern in the concept of old layer.