100 Reasons (for Japan and China)

Author: Hu Ping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: When it comes to Japan, the Chinese people indeed find it difficult to remain calm and composed. They are often filled with fervent emotions. However, without a rational dam, this passion can become a raging flood, spreading uncontrollably and ultimately destroying everything, including their own homes. Hu Ping's 100 Reasons is both passionate and rational, a "perfect combination" of reason and emotion." — Renowned scholar, researcher at the Institute of Modern History, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Lei Yu Many books written about the War of Resistance against Japan, as well as a series of recent CCTV programs, have kept our attention fixed on the pain and cruelty of war. Hu Ping's book, however, guides our gaze deeper into the hearts of the Japanese people. It explores the deeper structures of Japanese national character and the cultural differences between China and Japan to seek the profound roots of the human tragedy. This is even more important for humanity to better understand its own sins and prevent such tragedies from recurring." — Renowned economist, macro-strategy department head at the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission Research Center, professor at the School of Economics and Management, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Zhao Xiao Where is the secret of China-Japan relations? At least since the past 140 years, China has been dealing with Japan. Japan is not just a mirror for China but also a symbol of shame. Is China not Japan's rival? Is Japan not China's future? There are thousands of ways to interpret Japan, but which one is the most accurate? Regarding China-Japan relations, we have tried thousands of remedies, but which one can truly cure the illness?" — Shi Yonggang, executive editor of Hong Kong's Phoenix Weekly, renowned book planner We have a hundred reasons to hate Japan—in history, it brought humiliation and war to our nation; in reality, it constantly poses challenges and troubles to us. But we cannot ignore the thousand-year-old entanglement between our two countries, the cultural blood ties, and the economic interdependence. We must also not overlook the diligence and resilience of the Japanese people, their strong national power, and their dazzling achievements in modernization. Of course, we must remain vigilant against the expansionist ambitions and aggressive consciousness of this nation. On the other hand, we should reflect on and critique ourselves more deeply: what we lack is a profound and sincere love for our nation and country, a lack of courage, and a loss of confidence. We have forgotten the suffering of our nation and even the victories of our nation. On a deeper and broader level, both China and Japan must cross each other's threshold to become mature modernized nations.