Kankyō（環境）

Definition

Kankyō, which translates to 'environment,' refers to the surrounding conditions, influences, and factors that affect individuals and communities. This term encompasses not only the physical aspects, such as natural resources and climate, but also social and cultural elements that shape family dynamics and lifestyles across various societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kankyō plays a crucial role in shaping family roles, responsibilities, and relationships, which can vary significantly across different cultures and environments.
2. Natural disasters and climate change can greatly impact family structures by displacing communities and altering traditional ways of life.
3. Urbanization affects kankyō by changing family dynamics, as families adapt to new living conditions in cities that may include increased isolation or changes in communal support systems.
4. Cultural beliefs about the environment influence how families interact with natural resources and make decisions regarding sustainability and conservation.
5. The concept of kankyō includes both tangible elements like air and water quality and intangible aspects like social cohesion, which can affect the well-being of families.

Review Questions

• How does kankyō influence family roles in different societies?
  • Kankyō significantly influences family roles by determining the resources available and the challenges faced by families in various environments. For example, in rural areas where agriculture is prevalent, family members may take on roles focused on farming and resource management. In contrast, urban environments may lead families to prioritize education and employment opportunities, creating a shift in traditional roles. Understanding these dynamics reveals how environmental factors shape expectations and responsibilities within families.
• Discuss the impact of environmental changes on family structures and community relationships.
  • Environmental changes such as climate change or natural disasters can disrupt family structures by forcing migration or altering living conditions. For instance, families may become separated due to displacement, leading to weakened community ties. Additionally, the stress caused by environmental challenges can strain relationships within families as they navigate uncertainties about resources and stability. This shift can lead to changes in support systems and how families rely on each other during difficult times.
• Evaluate the relationship between cultural values regarding kankyō and family sustainability practices.
  • The relationship between cultural values regarding kankyō and family sustainability practices is deeply intertwined. Cultures that prioritize harmony with nature tend to promote sustainable practices within families, such as resource conservation and environmental stewardship. This commitment can manifest in how families educate their children about caring for the environment or how they engage with community initiatives aimed at sustainability. On the other hand, cultures that prioritize economic growth over environmental concerns may face challenges in maintaining sustainable practices within their families, highlighting the need for a balance between cultural values and ecological responsibility.

Related terms

Sustainable Development: A development approach that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often integrating environmental health with social equity.

Cultural Diversity: The variety of cultural expressions and practices within a society, influenced by environmental contexts that shape family structures and social relationships.

Social Environment: The immediate surroundings of an individual or group that influence their behavior, including family, peers, community resources, and cultural norms.