Moreover, the argument for national polity, for Christianity, and for Confucianism... are also insufficient to bolster people’s hearts. What, then, w… - Fukuzawa Yukichi

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Moreover, the argument for national polity, for Christianity, and for Confucianism... are also insufficient to bolster people’s hearts. What, then, will? I say there is one thing: namely, to establish our goal and advance toward civilization... The way in which to preserve this independence cannot be sought anywhere except in civilization.

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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

Also Known As

Pen Names: 明治卅弐年後之福翁
Alternative Names: Yukichi Fukuzawa

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In its broad sense, civilization means not only comfort in daily necessities but also the refining of knowledge and the cultivation of virtue so as to elevate human life to a higher plane... It refers to the attainment of both material well-being and the elevation of the human spirit, [but] since what produces man’s well-being and refinement is knowledge and virtue, civilization ultimately means the progress of man’s knowledge and virtue.

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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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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