Motoori Norinaga

Motoori Norinaga (1730-1801) was a prominent Japanese scholar and philosopher known for his influential work in the study of Japan's native culture and literature, particularly the ancient texts. He is best known for his interpretations of the "Genji Monogatari" (The Tale of Genji) and his advocacy for "kokugaku," or national learning, which emphasized the importance of Japan's indigenous traditions and Shinto values. Norinaga criticized Western influences and insisted on the significance of emotion and intuition in understanding Japanese identity. His ideas played a crucial role in shaping modern Japanese thought and cultural nationalism.