Factors affecting design . . .

Hello (Me again!)

I am currently writing a dissertation on Japanese Product design principles. I have been researching into social, religous and business practice and the inflence they could have on design.

I have some questions:

Are there any Shinto ideals that are incorporateed into or affect design?

What exactly is Zen? What, if any, are its effects on design?

How does being part of a Zaibatsu affect a companies way of working?

Can you explain Katachi?

Please try an relate your answer to consumer products.

Im really interested in your responses and love this forum!
Thank you so much for all your help!

books

I have books on nearly all these subjects (being a designer for the past 10 years) I can give you the correct ISBN numbers and you can buy them from amazon.

Basicaly I say this because the exact information you need could never be summised in a single forum post and does really require the medium of book.

hope this is good enough a reply, if you're skint and cannot afford books from amazon then well done you for blowing your grant on beer.

Thanks for your reply.

I have studied quite extensively and invested in books (from Amazon).

However the book numbers could come in handy. Any books that i really need i will get (and yes i have spent my grant money on beer!)

The question that was important for me in the first post was the question about shinto ideals and if they are incorporated into design.

With you being a designer, would it be possible to talk to you further? An interview of sorts? That would be great. Thats why i have been posting on forums to get feedback firsthand from people.

Thank you again for your input

What are a few of the Shinto ideals?

How many Japanese could name them?

"Can you explain Katachi?"

the essence of japanese design; form symmetry and workmanship of traditional craft.

I have a wonderful book with 400 images;

Katachi
ISBN 0-8118-2547-7

Most of my other books are on hanga and ukiyo-e artists etc, some on architecture and others on zen ****.
As for an interview, I'm not sure if I know enough to answer all your questions, although drop me a line about anything specific through my website (nothing too vague however

A lot of books are still on my wish list at amazon, because they sell for over ﾂ｣150 (mean buggers)