This study analyzes "New Theses (Shinron)," by Aizawa Seishisai (1781 1863), and its contribution to Japanese political thought and policy during the early modern era. "New Theses" is found to be indispensable to our understanding of Japan's transformation from a feudal to a modern state.

Focusing on Aizawa, Wakabayashi traces the development of xenophobia during the Tokugawa period and examines the basis of anti Western sentiment. He shows how knowledge of Christianity inspired Aizawa to develop the potent concept of kokutai ( what is essential to a nation ). His analysis explains...