Politics, memory and public opinion

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This volume delves into the political and social contexts surrounding the ongoing history textbook controversy in Japan. Chapter 1 highlights the resurgence of historical revisionism since the 1990s, which seeks to bolster national pride through history education in schools, as a key factor in the renewed debate. The chapter also examines the connections between historical revisionism and Japanese domestic politics. Chapter 2 illustrates how this strong link has influenced the public's "culture of memory," evident in memorials, museums, and ceremonies, leading to interpretations of Japan's recent history that align closely with revisionist views. This is particularly evident in the portrayal of the Asia-Pacific War (1931-1945), often depicted by revisionists as a defensive war or one fought for the "liberation" of Asia. Despite the assertiveness of these views, they do not reflect a consensus in Japanese society. Chapter 3 analyzes opinion surveys regarding the "historical consciousness" of the Japanese, revealing that revisionist perspectives are currently a minority. The controversy underscores the gap between the historical views held by the political elite and those prevalent in society. Understanding the backgrounds and issues of this debate is crucial, especially as the next round of discussions approaches the 60th anniversary of the war's end.