I hope this question is allowed. I know that contemporary issues aren't welcomed, but my question is mostly centered around those two states' histories and changes from the period of WW2 until this era, so I think that my question sufficiently fits into a historical perspective.
Anyways, title for reference! Comparing how militaristic and expansionist the two nations were, they now are nearly pacifistic and inwardly oriented. Has there been any research analyzing these shifts of national consciousnesses?
Anyways, title for reference! Comparing how militaristic and expansionist the two nations were, they now are nearly pacifistic and inwardly oriented. Has there been any research analyzing these shifts of national consciousnesses?
I would argue that this is probably more of a sociology type question, since politically, neither Germany nor Japan have been in full control of their political destinies since WW2.
Germany was divided into four occupation zones following its defeat in WW2, and the US, French, and UK zones were eventually consolidated into West Germany. Its constitution was promulgated in 1949 - and put into effect after it was signed off by the Western allies. There were many restrictions put in place, particularly on German rearmament and its ability to use forces abroad.
Likewise with Japan, whose postwar constitution was adopted under Allied supervision with many restrictions on its military as well.
And lest we forget, the victors occupied said nations for years afterwards - and if we count the continued presence of foreign troops on their soil, they are still there.