How to Measure “Unique” or “Universal”?
How to Measure “Unique” or “Universal”?

Comparison in Crisis or Crisis in Comparison

Author(s): Inaga Shigemi
Subject(s): Studies of Literature, Other Language Literature, Philology
Published by: Wydawnictwa Uniwersytetu Warszawskiego
Keywords: linear perspective; Red Cross; Sino-Japanese War; kenosis; Yihetuan Incident; Boxer Rebellion; agape; Christianity; nothingness; Zen Buddhism
Summary/Abstract: Is Japan contributing to world civilization? If yes, then to what extent? Is this contribution beneficial or negative? In order to examine these questions, the paper addresses three cases of cross-cultural transfers analyzed from a comparative perspective. First, we will examine the adoption of Western linear perspective as an example of a technological transfer in the Far East. Second, we will look at a legal issue in the field of international diplomatic negotiations. Finally, the third case discussed will deal with the intricacies of inter-religious understanding. The first case dates back to the second half of the eighteenth century, the second – to the end of the nineteenth century, while the last one became a topic of conversation in the mid-twentieth century. We hope that these three examples will help to elucidate the worldwide geopolitical circumstances as well as historical vicissitudes in which Japan’s contribution to worldwide civilization can be measured. Applying a comparative approach and analyzing both the positive and the negative sides of the issues discussed will help us make a critical assessment of Japanese studies in the international dimension.

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