1st Edition

Word-Processing Technology in Japan Kanji and the Keyboard

236 Pages

by Routledge

219 Pages

by Routledge

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Description

This book deals with a topical issue relating to the use of script in Japan, one which has the potential to reshape future script policy through the mediation of both orthographic practices and social relations. It tells the story of the impact of one of the most significant technological breakthroughs in Japan in the latter part of this century: the invention and rapid adoption of... Read more

Part 1: patterns of growths; why the script delayed the technology; the typewriter age; the Kana typewriter; office automation; romanisation - a serious alternative? implications of the technology - a local reading. Part 2: some early case studies; early reactions; outside the office; a continuing trajectory. Part 3: increase in number of printed documents; standardisation; Kanji overload; revival of complex Kanji; Kanji mistakes; Ategi and Muimigo; forgetting Kanji; the changing view of Kanji; the role of the national language council; the long-term outlook. Part 4: the personal letter; the handwriting complex; the written word - written how? same lifestyle consequences for the user; consumerism; changes in the work force. Part 5: essentialism and internationalisation; language nationalism; the script factor; Kanji on the Internet.