Medium Post #2

In the work “Goodbye Asia”, the author advocate the adaptation of western civilization. The old government was deemed outdated and needed to go for Japan to enter a new era like the West. With the government toppled, the Imperial Family will establish a new government, under which the citizens participate in the effort of transforming Japan into a western civilization; This justifies imperialism as a way to modernize Japan and prevent it from falling into the control of other powers.

On the contrary, “The Way of Subjects” written 55 years later proposed a different idea. Unlike “Goodbye Asia”where western idea is upheld as superior, it emphasis on protecting the tradition character of Asia. This includes having the emperor as the top of the society, favorating imperialism like the other piece.

Comparing the two articles, it can be seen the idea of having the emperor in reign stood the test of time. This is likely because the Imperial family is considered as “the founding source of Japan”(The Way of Subjects, p.439)It has been a symbol of Japan and has people’s respect. However, the attitude towards western culture in Japan had changed dramatically. I think the reason for such is because of the expansion of western power in many regions. In the early 20th century, western powers were dominating the world. They move into India and China, which was alarming for Japan; They are wiping oriental culture away, and it would be matter of time before the same happen in Japan. Therefore, the Japanese felt they have to protect their traditional and moral principles from perishing.