ABSTRACT
The tense security relations in contemporary East Asia, including those between Japan and its neighbors, are largely attributable to the expansion of the Japanese Empire from the Meiji Era onward and the ambiguity of its post-World War II settlement, in which the roles and impacts of the West cannot be overlooked. Japan has found its prosperity in the international orders created by the “West.” Without the cracks engendered in the process being properly removed, however, contemporary Japan faces an uncertain future in East Asia. As the modern international relations framework and also the Cold War spread from Europe, their experience, wisdom, and/or lessons to overcome problems may also be learned or applied. It is worthwhile for Japan to help stabilize and build a peaceful regional order by learning from and working with the West, but in cooperation with its Asian neighbors this time, if it is to protect its interests in challenging times.
