The entrepreneur who built modern Japan : Shibusawa Eiichi. The entrepreneur who built modern Japan : Shibusawa Eiichi

"In this penetrating biography of Shibusawa Eiichi (1840-1931), one of Japan's foremost entrepreneurs, Shimada Masakazu traces Shibusawa's youth, when he witnessed the decay of Japan's feudal society and experienced the benefits of modernization at first hand in Europe; his service in the Ministry of Finance of the new Meiji government in its early years; and his venture into business and involvement in literally hundreds of companies as he set about building the roots of modern corporate Japan. Shimada also looks closely at Shibusawa's social activities and his insistence that economics and morals are inseparable. In troubled times like the present, when the limits of capitalism are being seen around the world, Shibusawa's vision is as relevant as ever"--Back cover. 'What is Bushido? What is Budo? How are the culture and traditions of the samurai connected with the modern martial arts? Is the ancient wisdom of Japan's feudal warriors truly relevant in the twenty-first century? If so, how can it be accessed? This book addresses these questions, and is a must read not only for martial artists, but also for those who want to know more about the enigmatic Japanese mind and notions of self-identity'-- From farm boy to shogunate vassal : seeking an outlet for his talents Leader of the Meiji business world : developing the mechanisms for an open economy Shibusawa's personal network Politics for the benefit of the private sector Contribution to nation building through social and public enterprises Epilogue : Shibusawa's vision of modern society.