Once the wind of Western civilization blows to the East, every blade of grass and every tree in the East follow what the Western wind brings... We do… - Fukuzawa Yukichi

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Once the wind of Western civilization blows to the East, every blade of grass and every tree in the East follow what the Western wind brings... We do not have time to wait for the en­lightenment of our neighbors so that we can work together toward the development of Asia. It is better for us to leave the ranks of Asian na­tions and cast our lot with civilized nations of the West... We should deal with them exactly as the Westerners do.

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About Fukuzawa Yukichi

Fukuzawa Yukichi (福澤 諭吉 Yukichi Fukuzawa; 10 January 1835 – 3 February 1901) was a Japanese author, writer, teacher, entrepreneur and political theorist whose ideas about government and social institutions made a lasting impression on a rapidly changing Japan during the period known as the Meiji Era. Fukuzawa was instrumental in introducing Western ideas and educational principles to Japan. He founded Keio University, one of Japan’s first private universities, which became a significant center for spreading liberal and modern thought throughout the country. His writings, including the best-selling “An Encouragement of Learning” and “An Outline of a Theory of Civilization,” played a crucial role in shaping the intellectual foundation of modern Japan Fukuzawa’s philosophy was rooted in the principle of self-reliance and independence for both individuals and the nation. He advocated for a strong educational system as the foundation for a free and independent society. His ideas on social and economic development were highly progressive at the time, advocating for the abolition of the class system and the promotion of gender equality

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Alternative Names: Yukichi Fukuzawa
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Additional quotes by Fukuzawa Yukichi

Each individual man and each individual country, according to the principles of natural reason, is free from bondage. Consequently, if there is some threat that might infringe upon a country’s freedom, then that country should not hesitate even to take up arms against all the countries of the world.

I think I have made it clear that I never intended to make enemies. But in an age when anti-foreign sentiment was running high, it was unavoidable that in my position as an advocate of open intercourse and free adoption of Western culture, I should make some adversaries.

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