Sociology | Equivalent Exchange

Bushido was a moral code followed by the Samurai class that arose during the Edo period of Japan. The origins of this ethos are generally agreed to be a syncretism arising from various religious and cultural institutions that were extant during that time. Even though the idea of a set number of principles may be questionable, a modern, formalized list of eight was largely popularized in 1900 by Inazo Nitobe in his controversial book “Bushido: The Soul of Japan”. It argued that Bushido was very similar to the Medieval ethos of Western Chivalry.

Core Sources and Influences:

Confucianism: Provided the backbone of the code, emphasizing loyalty to the master, duty, and benevolence.
Zen Buddhism: Contributed to self-control, mental discipline, and overcoming the fear of death.
Shintoism: Cultivated loyalty to the Emperor and respect for ancestors.
Feudal Law (Edo Period): The Tokugawa shogunate formally codified these previously unwritten customs into laws, demanding loyalty and strict conduct from the samurai class.
“Hagakure” by Yamamoto Tsunetomo: While not listing eight principles specifically, this text is a primary source for the samurai mindset, emphasizing the “secret” rule of not fearing death.
Inazo Nitobe (“Bushido: The Soul of Japan”): Defines the eight core virtues as the cornerstone of samurai ethics to explain Japanese culture to the West.

The Eight Principles (per Nitobe):