Development of Northern Studies – the Social Contribution of the Sciences of the Mind　　　Takashi Irimoto

　Northern studies, in addition to dealing with northern regions, also encompasses human studies in a broad sense because it explores the more universal question of “What are human beings?” while positioning northern cultures within the overall context of human culture. It is also important to contribute to human happiness through practice based on the theory and understanding obtained from such studies (Irimoto, 1992: 12; 2004: 52 – 54; 2007: 97; Irimoto and Yamagishi, 2007: 26 – 27).
　Although the social contribution of study has long been discussed, in many cases it seems limited to application in pure sciences. It is natural to assume that technical development and economic affluence are necessary for human lifestyles, but the real problems faced by humans and society cannot be addressed through these fields alone. What is more important is to leverage scientific approaches concerning the human mind (Irimoto, Takahashi and Yamagishi, 2007). Importance should be attached to problem-solving types of social contribution based on everyday living, such as solutions to community, medical, nursing care, terminal care and other aging-related issues, as well as depopulation and changes in family structure. To achieve this, it is necessary to make proposals based on empirical data and scientific analysis, rather than on mere impressions or wishful thinking.
　Analyzing life in the severe natural, economic and social conditions of Hokkaido’s former coal-producing areas or in urban housing complexes characterized by the aging of residents can reveal that the concept of reciprocity necessary to form a social fabric is alive and well there. It then becomes possible to design ways to further develop and display this inherent trait of the human mind. These proposals can be put into practice based on specific realities through cooperation with administrative agencies.
　Analysis of the roles played by mental care in addition to physical and medical care in communities formed by caregivers and their patients at facilities for the elderly in Hokkaido also makes it possible to identify the bonds of trust forged between them and the feelings of happiness thereby generated. The results can then be used as a basis for establishing, presenting and implementing specific methods for better care as new systems.
　These results should reflect characteristics unique to Hokkaido as a northern region. However, if these can be proven true, then measures can be developed to suit the characteristics of different regions in other parts of Japan, or even around the world. The social contribution of the sciences of the mind has a level of universality that transcends regional borders.
References
Irimoto, Takashi
　1992 On the Foundation of the Northern Studies Association (NSA). Northern Studies Association Bulletin 1:11-12.
Irimoto, Takashi
　2004 Northern Studies and Anthropology. Northern Studies Association Bulletin 10: 52-54.
Irimoto, Takashi
　2007 Anthropological Themes Today Viewed from Northern Studies. Northern Studies Association Bulletin 12: 96-98.
Irimoto, Takashi , Nobuyuki Takahashi, and Toshio Yamagishi (eds.)
　2007 Logic and Practice of Group Life―Psychological and Anthropological Examination on Reciprocity. Sapporo: Hokkaido University Press.
Irimoto, Takashi and Toshio Yamagishi (eds.)
　2007 Themes of Cultural Anthropology Today―Viewed from Northern Studies. Kyoto: Sekai Shisosha.
▲ページトップ

Index＞研究課題＞1.北方文化研究の集大成＞Development of Northern Studies – the Social Contribution of the Sciences of the Mind