Japanese Nationalism

This thesis addresses the phenomenon of Japanese nationalism, its changing place in Japanese life, and its influence on Japans international relations. This study uses a theoretical-psychological approach to nationalism. After tracing the historical development of nationalist thought beginning in Tokugawa Japan, current social trends in the areas of politics, economics, women and family, and youth and education are examined to determine if the requisite qualities of nationalism are present in modern Japan to portend an eventual return to an ultra form of nationalism. The thesis concludes that traditional nationalist thought remains a vital part of Japanese thinking and, concerning national security implications for the United States, the U.S. should not forcefully pressure Japan in the areas of trade and security issues. If U.S. policy is devoid of cultural sensitivity, Japan may exercise its options in unilateral defense buildup and trade preferences.