Japanese argument

Author: Dai Jitao
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-04-01
Features: "The Japanese study China with meticulous depth and unwavering effort. The topic of 'China' has been subjected to countless dissections on an anatomical table and countless experiments in test tubes by the Japanese. In contrast, the Chinese study Japan in a superficial and vague manner. Most of us merely reject and oppose Japan, refusing to put in solid research effort. We are almost unwilling to read Japanese characters, listen to Japanese language, or even meet Japanese people. This can be called 'intellectual isolationism.' I advise the Chinese to start putting in earnest effort to study Japan from now on. What are their characteristics? What are their thoughts? What are their customs and habits? Where is the foundation of their nation and society? What is the basis of their lives? All these aspects must be thoroughly researched. Only by understanding their past can we grasp where their present comes from. Only by knowing the truth of their present can we predict their future trends. In layman's terms, 'know thyself and know thy enemy, and you will never lose in a hundred battles.' Whether we oppose or attack them, in the end, we must understand them." Japan Discussed was first published in 1928 and was regarded as an important reference work for studying Japan in academia. Even today, over 70 years after its publication, the book still offers valuable insights for Chinese readers to understand Japan's national conditions, ethnic characteristics, and customs. "The Japanese study China with meticulous depth and unwavering effort. The topic of 'China' has been subjected to countless dissections on an anatomical table and countless experiments in test tubes by the Japanese. In contrast, the Chinese study Japan in a superficial and vague manner. Most of us merely reject and oppose Japan, refusing to put in solid research effort. We are almost unwilling to read Japanese characters, listen to Japanese language, or even meet Japanese people. This can be called 'intellectual isolationism.' I advise the Chinese to start putting in earnest effort to study Japan from now on. What are their characteristics? What are their thoughts? What are their customs and habits? Where is the foundation of their nation and society? What is the basis of their lives? All these aspects must be thoroughly researched."