Conservatism in Japan
Conservatism in Japan refers to the political philosophy of conservatism as it has developed in Japan. Conservatism became the dominant ideology of the country's post-war politics, notably through the establishment of the "1955 System" under the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Since its inception in 1955, the LDP has been a dominant force in Japanese politics, embodying the party's conservative policies and shaping the country's governance for much of the post-war era.
Mainstream contemporary Japanese conservatives largely believe in stances such as revising the Constitution and a pro-United States foreign policy,[1][2][3] while some hold positions including calls for remilitarization and a stronger foreign policy against communist North Korea and China and sometimes South Korea and Russia. Additionally, radical conservatives express anti-LGBT and anti-immigration sentiments[4][5][6][7] as well as engaging in denial of Japanese war crimes prior to and during World War II.[8][9][10]
History[edit]
During the Meiji era (1868–1912), Japan underwent a significant transformation as the country embarked on a process of rapid modernization and Westernization. While embracing modern reforms to strengthen Japan's economy and military, conservative factions within the government and society sought to preserve traditional Japanese values and institutions. The Meiji government implemented policies aimed at centralizing power under the Emperor, promoting nationalism, and reinforcing social hierarchies. These conservative efforts aimed to maintain social order amidst the profound societal changes brought about by industrialization and Western influence. Samurai values of loyalty, duty, and honor continued to influence conservative thought, emphasizing allegiance to the Emperor and the preservation of Japan's cultural identity in the face of Western encroachment.[11][12][13]
In the 1930s and 40s, conservatism took on a more extreme character. Influenced by rising militarism and expansionist ambitions, conservative factions within the government and military advocated for aggressive foreign policies aimed at securing Japan's dominance in East Asia. This period saw the emergence of ultranationalist parties such as the Imperial Rule Assistance Association and the militarization of Japanese society, with conservative forces pushing for military expansion and imperialist ventures in China and other parts of Asia. The rise of militarism and ultranationalism led to the erosion of democratic institutions and a tightening grip of authoritarianism, resulting in Japan's involvement in World War II.[14][15][16]
After the war, Japanese conservatism experienced a resurgence under the leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which came to power in 1955 and established the "1955 system" of conservative dominance in Japanese politics. Due to this, the LDP emerged as a dominant political force which lasts to this day.[17][18]
Prominent Japanese conservative figures include: