Abstract
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo has been a popular object of fascination for American consumers since its 2014 publication in the United States. This study explores how Japanese and non-Japanese college students interpret the book and how it portrays Japanese culture. Marie Kondo’s identity as a Japanese woman is manifested in the material and aesthetic qualities of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and shapes readers’ perception of its content in strategic ways that play into American stereotypes surrounding Japanese culture and domesticity. Kondo’s tidying method is unattainable for many, leading those who cannot use it to view their life as lacking. Ultimately, this research demonstrates the importance of reading culture-based self-help literature with a critical eye and understanding how authors and editors guide readers to view their lifestyles and the representation of culture in particular ways.
Advisor
Derderian, Elizabeth
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
Recommended Citation
Stevens, Kayla E., ""Does this spark joy?": Aesthetics, Gender, and Ideals in Marie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" (2023). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 10698.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/10698
Disciplines
American Popular Culture | American Studies | Anthropology | Japanese Studies | Other Anthropology | Social and Cultural Anthropology
Keywords
Anthropology, decluttering, self-help, tidying, KonMari, clutter, self-help books
Publication Date
2023
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2023 Kayla E. Stevens