Amai- ambiguity: more than one intended meaning for Japanese words. The Japanese generally tolerate ambiguity. Expressing yourself in an ambiguous and indirect manner is expected in Japanese. Page 9Geographic determinism: Japan's geography has a great influence on the development of many of the country's customs and cultural values. People had to live close to each other in communities. The concept of harmony became an important factor.pg 9-10Work was shared communally in order to achieve high production in limited space. People had to cooperate in this kind of society. Developing a “rule of unanimity” so as not to go against the wishes of the group. People avoided expressing their ideas clearly for fear of being excluded from the group. Japan has developed a vertical organization. Pg 10 “Although this group consciousness contributed greatly to Japan's economic development, the need for strong emotional unity also resulted in an inability to openly criticize others. » Pg 11Conversation style...is one sided...or an inconclusive argument.pg 11Amae- depending on the goodwill of the group. The concept of amae may have been important in maintaining group solidarity, as the Japanese are a people who have emphasized group unity since ancient times. Page 17The person who insists on his or her opinion before the group reaches a consensus is considered selfish and forward-thinking. It's better to say nothing than to cause misunderstandings or trouble. It is considered rude for a subordinate to openly denounce a person of higher rank. Pg 53Silence thus functions as a kind of lubricating oil to create smoother communication because it can help avoid hurting others and contributes to a peaceful and harmonious middle of paper......ups, and less preoccupied with their needs, goals, standards, interests, integrity and consequences within the group. They tend to view the individual self as the basic unit and a source of identity, purpose, and life objectives. Those who live in collectivist cultures value their group membership, respect group processes and decisions, and expect other group members to care for or protect them. in case of need or crisis. For them, maintaining good and harmonious relationships within their group is a priority; and it is important to avoid losing face. Their identity is based on the strong and cohesive internal groups to which they belong. In collectivist cultures, cooperation is high within in-groups, but is unlikely when the other person belongs to an out-group. For comparison, people from individualistic cultures are good at forming new in-groups and getting along with those in out-groups..