This course is a graduate-level seminar that introduces students to methodologies and approaches to fieldwork in Japan. It centers on the study and evaluation of recent books and articles in contemporary Japanese studies, with a focus on religion. Through these readings, we will discuss issues related to approach, methodology, ethics, and research design. The overarching aim of the course is to prepare students to conduct research in the field for the first time and improve research methods for those already immersed in fieldwork.
Readings and discussion will be in English, with the addition of some limited readings in Japanese.