This study focuses on the similarities and differences of the work values among the peoples studies in our East Asia Value Survey conducted during 2002-2004. It shows useful aspects of cross-national comparison on the East Asia.
Some researchers consider that the East Asia is under the influence of Confucianism, as the western countries under the influence of Christianity. It is said that scholars and civil servants are more respected than practical workers in Confucian ethics. Therefore, Maoism in China emphasized practical workers (farmers and labors) more respected. On the other hand, Confucian ethics of Japan was accepted among samurai (warrior)'s ethics at Edo era, may have been lost in the stream of democratization after Meiji era and in the reorganization after World War II.
The questionnaire of our East Asia Value Survey included two open questions about the occupation: “What occupation do you respect most ?”; “What is the occupation you yourself would like to have ?” The results of these responses indicate that the three categories as “Teacher”, “Medical Doctor” and “None or Don't Know” are useful criteria for the comparison among East Asian Peoples.
