How did the worship of kami influence Japanese views of human life and society?

In Japanese philosophy and the tradition of Shintō, the worship of kami—divine forces found in nature, ancestors, and various phenomena—fundamentally shapes views on human life and society by emphasizing connection, divinity, and harmony.123

The Nature of Humanity

Shintō posits that humans are "kami’s children," meaning human life is a gift from the divine and possesses an inherently sacred nature. Rather than viewing individuals as solitary beings, this philosophy sees them as part of a "continuity or communion" (tsunagari), linking ancestors to descendants. Because of this divine origin, every individual is considered worthy of respect, and their life is viewed as a responsible contribution to their social group.4

Social Harmony and Ethics

• Unity and Community: Historically, the ujigami (tutelary deity) served as the core of clan unity, harmonizing the community through shared rituals and festivals. This focus on unity extends to the national level, where the Imperial system has traditionally been viewed as a symbol of social harmony.534
• The "Middle Present": Shintō emphasizes naka-ima ("middle present"), encouraging individuals to live fully in the current moment to participate in the world's eternal development.4
• Purification: Rather than focusing on original sin, Shintō emphasizes purification to remove "dust" or impurities from the mind, allowing one’s innate divine nature to manifest.45

By viewing nature as the abode of spirits, this belief system fosters a sense of intimacy with the world and encourages a life lived in accordance with the will of kami, which is believed to produce a mystical power that gains the cooperation and approval of all deities.16