Brian Moeran Knihy

Exploring the intersection of anthropology and business, Brian Moeran conducts a comprehensive study of Japan's cultural production and creative industries. His participant-observation reveals how social structures significantly shape business practices, challenging the notion that culture alone drives behavior. Moeran advocates for a deeper engagement with ethnography in business studies, urging anthropologists to expand their research beyond conventional sites. This work serves as a vital call to rethink the application of anthropological methods in understanding contemporary business dynamics.

Through two decades of ethnographic research, Brian Moeran explores how fashion magazines enchant their audiences by employing techniques reminiscent of ancient magical and religious rituals. He delves into the interplay between anthropological theory and the cultural practices within the fashion industry, revealing the underlying mechanisms that create allure and influence among readers.

Focusing on the author's immersive experience, the narrative explores the inner workings of a Japanese advertising agency through participant observation. It delves into the cultural dynamics, work practices, and social interactions within the agency, offering insights into the complexities of the advertising industry in Japan. The book emphasizes the importance of ethnography in understanding workplace culture and the unique challenges faced by employees in a fast-paced environment.

Through its artful engagement with consumers, advertising subtly shapes our everyday worlds. It plays upon powerful emotions -- envy, fear, lust and ambition. But the industry itself is far more subtle and complex than many people might assume.

Offering a vibrant glimpse into rural Japan, this account blends personal journal entries with ethnographic insights gathered over four years of fieldwork. It explores the complex social dynamics among the valley's inhabitants and the anthropologist's interactions with them. Through sensitive observations, the narrative delves into cultural nuances, revealing the rich tapestry of relationships and moral considerations that shape life in this unique setting.

The author, a prominent scholar in creative industries, redefines the concept of creativity within the business context. The book explores how collaboration among individuals, institutions, and technologies contributes to creative processes and the generation of value, offering fresh insights into the dynamics of creative work.

This textbook offers a theoretical framework for understanding creative and cultural industries, influenced by Richard Caves, Howard Becker, and Pierre Bourdieu. It provides an accessible exploration of these industries, featuring case studies and examples from Japan, South Korea, and China, which highlight the unique characteristics and dynamics of the region's cultural landscape.

The book explores the evolution of contemporary Western ceramics while addressing significant themes in anthropology, particularly art and aesthetics, as well as Orientalism. It offers a detailed and candid examination of Japan's art pottery scene, complemented by ample illustrations that enhance the discussion and provide visual context.

Focusing on the social practices and cultural attitudes surrounding media consumption, this book explores the experiences of individuals in Japan, China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, and India. It delves into how people engage with various forms of media, offering insights into the diverse cultural landscapes and the significance of media in shaping societal norms and behaviors across these regions.

Exploring the history of Japanese whaling, this comprehensive account delves into the cultural significance of whaling practices and their impact on local communities. It examines the organizational structure of whaling operations, the influence of whaling companies on economies, and the whale's role in community identity through rituals and traditions. Additionally, the book addresses broader political and environmental concerns related to whaling, highlighting the tensions between cultural heritage and contemporary challenges.