The two analytic tools introduced here enable the conceptualisation of a structural approach to power that is ontologically accessible and fit for operationalization.
The current state-of-affairs suggests that as China is exhibiting a pre-WWI German paradigm a war will happen as it exponentially increases its expansionism.
By understanding China’s approach as pragmatic, not altruistic, those working with China can come out with economic gains.
Even with a resolution of the territorial dispute between Russia and Japan the relations between the two will change little, at least in the short to medium term.
The understanding of the history problem changes over time in Japan and in China even though there appears to be some stability concerning the important issues.
Although Dalton’s study lacks exploration of some challenges Japanese society confronts, it offers a unique glimpse into a society that often remains a myth to outsiders.
A true reconciliation over the ‘comfort women’ issue requires a future vision, or a grand scheme, within which the current agreement is contextualized.
Grievously wounded subjects are not easily healed and it would be naïve to assume that victims of state aggression will be able to put the past behind them.
The Japanese government has forced the South Korean government to take responsibility for the situation by repeating almost the same ritual apologies made in the 1990s.
Japan stands at a crossroads. It will have to accept that unless it de-escalates tensions through critical dialogue it will be faced with a fractious China.
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