Face and Offence

[Mole]

The Japanese have two words tatemae and honne. Tatemae means the face we present to the world and honne means what we feel in our heart.

Asian countries tend to put a strong emphasis on maintaining face, and will take offence if they are not taken at face value.

Western countries value face to a lesser degree and reserve face for those in official roles like royalty, politicians, police, judges or clergy.

But what is interesting is that when face is not respected, offence is taken.

 

[BlackDog]

So, you're saying there is essentially only a difference in level of formality?

 

[Ginkgo]

You've been on a Japanese kick lately, Mole. Any reason for that?

 

[Mole]

You've been on a Japanese kick lately, Mole. Any reason for that?

I worked on the Japanese desk for a number of years.

 

[Mole]

So, you're saying there is essentially only a difference in level of formality?

I think face has different cultural values in the East and West. But both parties have face, and ways of saving face, and socially enforcing face, and for taking face for granted.