Suicide and Culture in Japan: A Study of Seppuku as an Institutionalized Form of Suicide

This article discusses the Japanese suicidal ritual of seppuku. Historical origins, types, methods & implications of seppuku for the Japanese psyche & religio-moral philosophy of death in Japan are presented. The author argues that seppuku is a culturally approved & reinforced means of safeguarding self-esteem & honor. (14 refs) (SC)