Category: Past Events

Abstract: What is time made of? We might balk at such a question, and reply that time is not made of anything—it is an abstract and universal phenomenon. But the time measurement practices of Tokugawa Japan (1600-1868)—practices rooted in a timekeeping system in which hours changed their lengths with the seasons—tell us otherwise. Exploring the logic of Tokugawa clockmakers who designed mechanical clocks that measured time in variable hours, this talk will show how concepts of time are rooted in very concrete images and tangible practices.   ​

Dr. Yulia Frumer (Ph.D., Princeton) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History of Science and Technology at Johns Hopkins University. She is the author of the book Making Time: Astronomical Time Measurement in Tokugawa Japan (University of Chicago Press, 2018).

J.LIVE (Japanese Learning Inspired Vision and Engagement) Talk is a college-level Japanese language speech competition that emphasizes a comprehensive range of learned communication skills.

Unlike a traditional speech contest, this competition will evaluate the dynamism, vision and level of engagement of each participant’s presentation, which can include audio-visual materials, audience interaction, and other innovations that enhance his or her talk in a manner similar to the TED (Technology, Entertainment, and Design) talks. The competition aims to provide a platform for graduate and undergraduate students of institutions of higher education to:

• showcase their proficiency in Japanese
• polish their public speaking skills
• share ideas from their unique perspectives and
• connect with the larger Japanese-affiliated community.

The competition consists of a preliminary round, the semifinal round, and the final round. During the preliminary round (September 1, 2019 – September 23, 2019) entrants send in a short video on a designated topic.

Two different panels of judges will narrow down the field to 18 semifinalists and subsequently to 9 finalists. The final round consisting of 9 live presentations will be held at The George Washington University on Sunday, November 10, 2019. The top awards will  include a chance to study abroad in Japan, as well as cash prizes.