Abstract

The main aim of this chapter is to connect the Theory of Mind (ToM) with the Japanese philosophy so that the first thing we have to do is to provide a definition for the concept of ToM in order to talk about the Japanese case later. The ToM in Japan is associated with the concepts of mushin, also known as no mind, and Ikigai known as health and well-being of the individual. In order to comprehend the Japanese Theory of Mind, it is necessary to understand the Japanese philosophy in order to study the Japanese’s behavior and their way of life when analyzing their minds. The bases of Japanese philosophy whose origins are Chinese Confucianism, Taoism and Indian Buddhism must be analyzed. These thoughts evolved into Shintoism and Zen. Confucianism is one of the foundations of Chinese thought with the four books of Mencio that adapted the precepts of his master Confucius being the most important one Mengzi. Mengzi was also the basis of Taoism with the premise of looking towards oneself, the conception of unity and the knowledge of supreme and unifying reality. Buddhism is based on Indian culture, and it presents several branches such as Shintoism, Nichiren and Moanjo. Shintoism must be highlighted since it is the original belief of the Japanese people, the belief of a culture and the foundations of Japanese thought being, in that way, something more than a religion. Zen is an evolution of Buddhism with the maxim of studying the essence of the soul. The study of ToM in Japan has a novel perspective to understand Japanese Philosophy, especially when it comes to the nature of the mind, awareness, empathy, meditation, and compassion.