Analysis of Shu Ha Ri in Karate-Do
When a Martial Art Becomes a Fine Art
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The transfer of a centuries-old Japanese fine arts principle into empty-hand fighting.
In this book in the Analysis of Karate series, Hermann Bayer, Ph.D. examines Shu Ha Ri and its influence on modern karate. Bayer examines why and how this centuries old Japanese fine arts concept has changed how karate is practiced in modern times.
Shu Ha Ri is a genuine Japanese fine arts principle that was later applied into Japanese martial arts in general, and into karate-do in particular--not as a factual martial arts tradition but as an invented one--during a process that also converted Okinawa's self-protection art into something closer to a fine art of self-perfection.
Clarifying the influence of Shu Ha Ri in the Japanese approach to martial arts is particularly important since traditional Okinawan karate circles adamantly insist on keeping their Okinawan karate approach separated, unique, and not to be mixed up with Japanese ways.
Dr. Bayer's weaves historic, socio-cultural, political, philosophical, psychological, and commercial components into a complex analysis that finally gives a clear picture of the subject, and that addresses doubts and questions about ascent or alibi which inevitably arise when an Okinawan fighting art is changed into a Japanese fine art.
Contents Include
- A centuries old Japanese fine arts principle finds its way into modern karate.
- Shu Ha Ri is a Japanese cultural concept, not an Okinawan one.
- Japan converts Okinawan Karate-jutsu and inserts Japanese philosophies.
- The essence of Shu Ha Ri is its trinity of coexisting phases.
An additional component in this analysis is the inclusion of educational principles and approaches that can help instructors organize and systematize their teaching approach and to overcome traditional instructor-centered concepts by using teaching approaches that were developed to better reach westerly socialized minds.
About this Author
Hermann Bayer, Ph.D. Degrees in economics, sociology, and psychology, Hermann has worked in academia (scientist and campus dean) and as a CEO in the private sector (Germany). He immigrated to the USA in 2005.
Hermann's karate training began in Europe (1981) with Japanese karate-do until he transitioned to Okinawan karate in the USA (2016). He has spent considerable time with renown Japanese, Western, and Okinawan karate teachers, all the while researching the core essence of the style they represent. Hermann Bayer resides in Virginia Beach, VA.
Reviews
"Outstanding analysis of Shu Ha Ri, the developmental principle in Japanese karatedo, that contrasts the philosophical basis of Okinawan karate."
-- Noel Smith, Hanshi 9th Dan Yamashita International Budo Association, Kyoshi, 8th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan, head coach for the US karate team 1973 to 1978, USA Karate Hall of Fame Inductee
"Written with unconditional passion and intellectual depth . . . a masterful explication."
-- William "Bill" Hayes, Hanshi, 10th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shobayashi-Kan, Major United States Marine Corps (RET), Karate Masters' Hall of Fame and the American-Okinawan Karate Association Hall of Fame Inductee, award winning author My Journey with the Grandmaster
"Bayer's meticulous research and ability to bridge Eastern and Western thought make this book a valuable contribution to martial arts studies. A complex and wonderful read."
- Dr. James Hatch, EdD, Kyoshi, 7th Dan Chito Ryu, Sichibu Jyuku, martial arts researcher and international educator, Japan
"The most thoughtful and complete book on Shu Ha Ri ... ever. This book belongs in your library next to The Bubishi, The Art of War, and The Five Rings."
-- Kris Wilder, 6th Dan Goju-Ryu, black belt Tae Kwon Do and Judo, USA Karate Hall of Fame Inductee, award winning author including The Way of Kata, The Way of Sanchin Kata, and more
"Hermann Bayer is a distinguished scholar-practitioner and a staunch and convincing advocate for the case of recognizing Karate as a cultural heritage of Okinawa. Analysis of Shu Ha Ri in Karate-do is the most comprehensive work on the topic."
- Dr. Wolfgang Herbert, 6th Dan Shotokan Karate-do, SKIF, martial arts researcher, professor for Comparative Cultural Studies at the University of Tokushima/Japan, author of numerous studies on martial arts, Zen, and Japanese culture
"An enlightening analysis explains how Shu Ha Ri philosophy is applied and differs between today's martial arts cultures. Worthwhile and highly recommended read."
-- Raymond "Gene" Adkins, Renshi, 6th Dan Shorin Ryu, Shorinkan
"A complex analysis that gives a clear Shu Ha Ri picture and addresses common misconceptions."
- Thomas E. Ward, Kyoshi, 7th Dan Shorin Ryu Shorinkan
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