Yakuza in Japan: criminals or humanitarians?

photo – Jake Howry, Daily Beast

Studying outcasts around the world and across social classes, we would like to invite you for a fascinating talk on Yakuza – Japanese violent groups. Yakuza has a strict code of behaviour based on loyalty and respect and, similarly to Italian mafia, has a rigid hierarchy based on family connections. Once known as the most wealthy, much feared and somewhat untouchable segments of society, Yakuza clans are facing isolation today. Along with a debatable approach to ‘business’, these organised criminal gangs also have developed a uniquely interesting culture based on a strong in-group dynamic (nakaname), samurai-like rituals and also charitable actions. Despite the crimes conducted by Yakuza, they call themselves ninkyō dantai (literally meaning “chivalrous organisation”), securing streets from impulsive crimes and establishing the order.

Join Azumi Uchitani’s next talk about Yakuza, also known as ‘necessary evil’ and explore its complex image in society.

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SPEAKER – AZUMI UCHITANI
Azumi Uchitani is an Intercultural business consultant, keynote speaker, writer, artist and founder of Japanese SALON art & culture, based in the Netherlands. She is a two-times TEDx speaker, appearing Dutch TV and media and delivering talks to an international audience in Europe and in the US. Azumi is on a mission to build an essential bridge between Japan and Europe, helping global leaders discover Japanese ancient wisdom beyond culture, teaching how to apply its wisdom in everyday life, act with inner peace and create conscious leadership and fulfilling life. Azumi decodes the complexity of Japanese culture, tradition, philosophy, spirituality and unspoken rules into a simple essence of wisdom. She was born into a traditional spiritual Japanese family and raised with the teachings of Shingon Buddhism and Shinto. The spiritual and cultural practices, such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, calligraphy have always been a part of her life, besides that, her grandmother was a kimono maker. Her insights, a series of talks are available on her YouTube channel ‘5 minutes on Japanese Wisdom’ on YouTube.

http://www.azumiuchitani.com