|
Tatemae and Honne refer to one
of the main facets of
Japanese culture, the public persona and real feelings.
Tatemae (sometimes translated as Front) is a
face that japanese shows in public. They may have a specific role due to
their social status or position in the specific group (such as corporation
or company). They behave as they are expected to behave in the specific
situation, regardless of their personal opinions about the matter. Core of
tatemae is politeness to avoid confrontation. To the westerner, this may
sound dishonest.
Honne (can be translated as True Sound)
refers to real feelings and opinions. It is not something one is
encouraged to show in public, especially during business dealings. It is
something a Japanese shows only to his closest friends (or sometimes when
very drunk).
|
