Historical Analogy and Demonization of Others: Memories of 1930s Japanese Militarism and Its Contemporary Implications

Abstract

The chapter aims at elucidating the dynamics of mutual demonization between China and Japan that is anchored in the “Siamese twin” analogy of the 1930s episode. We argue that shadow projection, scapegoat behaviour, revival of geopolitical discourses, and identity politics have been responsible for the dilemma of mutual demonization between both countries. Domestic abuse of political power, driven by the misuse of historical narratives and the formation of an adversarial transnational coalitions, has further complicated the situation. Mutual demonization processes have worrisome implications for bilateral relations and general peace and stability in Northeast Asia. It concludes that political leadership, civil society, and mass media in each country should campaign against the excessive politicization of historical memory politics and the formation of adversarial coalitions