BUSHIDO APPLICATIONS IN MODERN TIMES
Samurai Mind Training for Modern Warriors, by Bonnie Rochman
An article originally published in Time Magazine that describes the new U.S. Army mental toughness program, which is modeled on ancient samurai techniques of meditation and focus.
An Interview with William Scott Wilson
In this interview, noted translator William Scott Wilson reflects upon the historical development of the code of Bushido and how it still affects Japanese culture in the modern day.
Midnight Eye Interview: Takeshi Kitano
In this interview, Takeshi Kitano discusses how he updated the story of Zatoichi for modern times. The Zatoichi series often featured stories that explored the shortcomings of the code of bushido, and how the Yakuza also followed the code in their own way.
"The Meaning of Martial Arts Training: A Conversation with Sawada Hanae", from the book Koryu Bujutusu: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan edited by Diane Skoss
"Budo is not something that can be done in a day, or a year or two. With training, there is never a point where you can stop and say this is enough. There is a deeper level. The sons of samurai families began training when they were just little children. They began even before they shaved their heads and donned hakama. The number of years they trained is not comparable to the amount people train today."
"Uchidachi & Shidachi" by Nishioka Tsuneo, from the book Koryu Bujutsu: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan
"The heart of bujutsu is rei. The responsibility of a teacher is to communicate this to students. If this communication fails, students can develop incorrect attitudes and the true meaning of training is lost. Unfortunately, there is a great deal of abuse of power in Japanese budo today. In my opinion few teachers are teaching the principles of budo correctly. Rei in budo has become very artificial, resembling the old-style Japanese military hierarchy. The true meaning of rei is no longer expressed. We seem to be preserving only the worst parts of Japanese traditions and culture, and we need to consider ways to change this situation."
Fighting Arts Forums Editorial: "Reciprocity" by George Donahue
"At the beginning and end of each class, and at the beginning and end of each technique with a partner, Ando-sensei always bowed deeply. Often his bow was deeper than that of his students, especially those who were too proud."
Aikido Journal Forum Discussion
Thread from Aikido Journal Forums that asks the question: How is the philosophy of Aikido changing today?