Westerners are increasingly discovering Buraku studies.<\/p>\n
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This paper analyzes their tendency of designating Burakumin as an \u201coutcaste,\u201d considering that the concept of outcaste derives from the caste system (Varna and J\u0101ti) of India.<\/p>\n
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Incorporating findings of caste system studies, I consider whether adaptation of the caste system theory is reasonable in the case of the Buraku issue, and I find errors.<\/p>\n
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This paper critiques Edward Said, and argues a relationship between Orientalism, and this tendency of Occidental researchers to apply the outcaste label.<\/p>\n
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The argument naturally follows that Orientalism in the Buraku issue is a conclusion of power from the Western episteme.<\/p>\n
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No critique of Orientalism by a Burakumin, as Japanese in Asia, can remain at this theoretical level, however.<\/p>\n
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To apply the theory, an important procedure will be required of Burakumin.<\/p>\n
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We must engage in self-reflection as Orientalists against Asians.<\/p>\n
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Burakumin self-realization depends on our self-analysis.<\/p>\n
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This paper originates in my own origins, and may therefore add to discussion of the positionality issue.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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