[GOPJ]

How do two diametrically opposed ideas exist within the same culture in such seeming peace? Does the Japanese discipline and self-control exist to balance the inner samurai?

My take: The Japanese national psyche to avoid any kind of geo-political confrontation and diplomatically be all things to all people is deeply imbedded; has been there for nearly 60 years. But the pissed-off, samurai nationalist warrior spirit also co-exists way down 'in there'. If push comes to shove, it'll roar out and surprise many folks. Most of the rest of Asia knows this, too.

[bonesmccoy]

The sociological patterns of the last sixty years reflect less of the Japanese history and more of the patterns of Western domination.

There is intense shame associated with losing. Clearly, the US was the victor. Some Japanese were angry with Japanese Americans who were felt to be "traitors". Such "traitors" were responsible for decoding Japanese messages and saving the lives of probably tens of thousands of American GI's.

It was commonly opined in Hawaii that any Japanese Americans would have been caught and slaughtered by the invading Japanese force.

Perhaps much of that is hearsay. But, Bataan seems to demonstrate the hatred magnified by the inappropriate application of bushido.

One can not apply 18th Century patterns to modern Japan. While Japanese society has many social norms that reflect "tradition", the business and political climate is governed by US interests.

Japanese business and politics appears pragmatic. If they get a profit and build security, they are happy.

The problem is that Japan realizes that they are not secure. The issue is the response of the second largest economy on Earth. Will it join asiatic nations in anti-American activity (which is what NorKor and PRChina wants)?

Instead, Koizumi and Japan have chosen differently.

They appear to have sided with the US on the basis of principle and pragmatism.

Let's face it... a strong peace is more profitable than a weak one.

Reagan gave us a "strong" peace.

Clinton gave us a "weak" peace.