Chindogu

toc =Chindogu=

What is it?
Chindogu (chin meaning weird, dogu meaning tool -- [|chindogu.com]) is a part of Japanese culture that involves creating tools that can be used to solve everyday problems. The term was created by Japanese comedian Kenji Kawakami in his book "101 Useless Japanese Inventions: The Art of Chindogu" ([|wikipedia.com]).

Since the idea of Chindogu was made popular by Kawakami, the creation of chindogu inventions has flourished. The utility of these devices is narrowed down so as to solve specific problems; however, the usage of chindogu inventions is often markedly odd looking.

Examples of Chindogu

 * [[image:http://www.educared.org.ar/tamtam/jmages/chindogu.jpg]] || [[image:http://www.online.com.es/imagenes/chindogu-1.jpg]] ||

The Way of the Chindogu
When creating Chindogu, inventors must be aware of the rules that govern the creation of such inventions. These rules are made to classify what is, and what is not, Chindogu; also, they identify several key attitudes that a Chindogu inventor must have. As such, practioners of Chindogu form a way of life around these rules:

(from [|Chindogu.com])
 * 1. A Chindogu cannot be for real use**
 * 2. A Chindogu must exist**
 * 3. Inherent in every Chindogu is the spirit of anarchy**
 * 4. Chindogu are tools for everyday life**
 * 5. Chindogu are not for sale**
 * 6. Humour must not be the sole reason for creating a Chindogu**
 * 7. Chindogu is not propaganda**
 * 8. Chindogu are never taboo**
 * 9. Chindogu cannot be patented**
 * 10. Chindogu are without prejudice**

Works Cited:

Sources: - "Chindogu." __Wikipedia.Com__. 26 Oct. 2006. 9 Nov. 2006 . - Chindogu.com

Images Mobile toilet paper dispenser: http://www.online.com.es/imagenes/chindogu-1.jpg Chopstick noodles fan: http://www.educared.org.ar/tamtam/jmages/chindogu.jpg