Chapter 7: ‘Westernisation’ and ‘Tradition’| Class 11 History Notes

For many Japanese intellectuals during the Meiji period, the West represented the pinnacle of civilization, and Japan’s future lay in emulating Western ideals. Fukuzawa Yukichi, a prominent Meiji intellectual, epitomized this perspective by advocating for Japan to “expel Asia” and adopt Western customs and values. This fervent embrace of Westernization was seen as essential for Japan’s modernization and global stature.

Let us learn more about “westernisation” and “tradition” in context of Japan!

‘Westernisation’ and ‘Tradition’

Successive generations of Japanese intellectuals held differing perspectives on Japan’s relations with other countries. Some viewed the USA and Western European nations as the epitome of civilization, which Japan should follow. Fukuzawa Yukichi, a prominent Meiji-era intellectual, advocated for Japan to “expel Asia” and adopt Western characteristics. Born into a samurai family, Fukuzawa studied Western sciences and languages, traveling to the USA as a translator for the first Japanese embassy. He emphasized the importance of Western learning and established Keio University. In his work “The Encouragement to Learning,” Fukuzawa criticized Japanese knowledge and promoted the cultural essence of the West as essential for building a modern society.

However, the next generation of intellectuals questioned this wholesale acceptance of Western ideas and advocated for national pride based on indigenous values. Philosophers like Miyake Setsurei argued that each nation should develop its unique talents for the benefit of global civilization. While some intellectuals were drawn to Western liberalism and democracy, others, like Ueki Emori, pushed for constitutional government and liberal education. This pressure from intellectuals eventually led to the government’s announcement of a constitution, reflecting evolving views on Japan’s place in the world and its internal governance.

Rethinking Assumptions: Miyake Setsurei and the Rediscovery of Indigenous Values

However, subsequent generations of intellectuals challenged the notion of total Westernization, advocating instead for a reconnection with Japan’s indigenous values and traditions.

Philosopher Miyake Setsurei championed the idea that each nation should develop its unique talents in service of global civilization, emphasizing the importance of national pride rooted in indigenous culture. This marked a shift away from wholesale Westernization towards a more nuanced approach to modernity.

Yearning for Liberalism: Ueki Emori and the Call for Democracy

Amidst this ideological flux, many intellectuals gravitated towards Western liberalism as an alternative to authoritarian rule.

Ueki Emori, a leader of the Popular Rights Movement, staunchly advocated for constitutional government and drew inspiration from the principles of the French Revolution, particularly the doctrine of natural rights and popular sovereignty. His vision for Japan prioritized democracy over militarism and championed liberal education as a means to empower individuals.

The Struggle for Freedom: Advocating for Women’s Rights

The push for liberalism in Japan extended to calls for gender equality, with some intellectuals advocating for voting rights for women. This progressive stance challenged traditional gender roles and underscored the broader movement towards democratization and social reform.

Despite facing resistance, these advocates paved the way for greater gender equality and political participation in Japan.

A New Era Dawns: The Promise of Constitutional Government

Under mounting pressure from intellectuals and activists, the government announced plans for a constitution, signaling a historic shift towards constitutional monarchy and democratic governance.

This landmark development reflected the evolving dynamics of Japanese society and marked a pivotal moment in Japan’s journey towards modernity.

Conclusion

The discourse surrounding Westernization and tradition in Japan encapsulated the complexities of Japan’s quest for modernization and national identity. From fervent embrace to critical reevaluation, Japanese intellectuals grappled with competing ideologies, ultimately shaping the trajectory of Japan’s political, social, and cultural landscape.

‘Westernisation’ and ‘Tradition’- FAQs

What was the significance of Fukuzawa Yukichi’s concept of “expelling Asia” in Japan?

Fukuzawa Yukichi’s notion of “expelling Asia” symbolized Japan’s fervent embrace of Western ideals and its aspiration to attain Western levels of civilization. This concept underscored the drive towards Westernization as a means of modernization and global recognition for Japan.

How did Miyake Setsurei’s philosophy differ from Fukuzawa Yukichi’s views on Westernization?

Miyake Setsurei advocated for a more nuanced approach to modernization, emphasizing the importance of preserving Japan’s indigenous values while contributing to global civilization. Unlike Fukuzawa, who championed total Westernization, Miyake believed that each nation should develop its unique talents in service of world progress.

Who was Ueki Emori, and what were his contributions to the intellectual landscape of Japan?

Ueki Emori was a key figure in the Popular Rights Movement of Japan. He advocated for constitutional government, drawing inspiration from Western liberalism and the principles of the French Revolution. His calls for democracy and individual freedoms challenged traditional authoritarian rule and laid the groundwork for political reform in Japan.

How did the discourse on Westernization intersect with the movement for gender equality in Japan?

The discourse on Westernization in Japan included calls for gender equality and women’s rights. Some intellectuals, inspired by Western liberalism, advocated for voting rights for women and challenged traditional gender roles. This progressive stance reflected broader movements towards democratization and social reform in Japan.

What was the significance of the government’s announcement of a constitution in Japan?

The government’s announcement of a constitution marked a significant milestone in Japan’s transition towards constitutional monarchy and democratic governance. It reflected the evolving dynamics of Japanese society and signaled a departure from authoritarian rule towards a more representative form of government.