<Articles>The Theory of Evolution in the Political Thought of Japan and China in the Early Meiji Era

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Other Title
  • <論説>日中両国の初期民権思想と進化論
  • 日中両国の初期民権思想と進化論
  • ニッチュウ リョウコク ノ ショキミンケン シソウ ト シンカロン

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In this article I have tried to analyze modern political thought in Japan and China, particurarly how the theory of evolution took its place in the histories of the two countries. Here, I must point out that by evolution I mean social evolution, which was first introduced into Japan and later China at the end of the 19th century, not biological evolution. This is a comparative study of modern political thought, and I have found it convenient to divide my conclusions into three main points, as follows : 1) Both Japan and China, in the age of an enlightenment movement, were extremely fond of the ideals of British utilitarianism. 2) In accordance with Herbert Spencer's theory of evolution, Japan and China rejected radical revolution and advanced their reforms gradually. 3) The theory of selection (survival of the fittest) provided a stimulus for the formation of nationalism in Japan and China. This nationalism was earnestly needed to repel the threat of the Western Powers in order to bring about the independence of two countries.

Journal

  • 史林

    史林 54 (2), 179-205, 1971-03-01

    THE SHIGAKU KENKYUKAI (The Society of Historical Research), Kyoto University

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