ABSTRACT
The autumn of 2012 marked the 40th anniversary of the normalization of Sino-Japanese relations. However, a new eruption of the Diaoyu Islands dispute that summer led to the cancellation of planned celebrations. Instead, over 100 Chinese cities witnessed anti-Japan demonstrations, some involving violence against Japanese enterprises and products. The outrage on both sides has assumed a new intensity, contributing in Japan to unprecedented support for nationalist parties and candidates in that December's General Election. Meanwhile, Sino-Japanese tensions have sparked heightened concern not only over disruption of trade between the world's second- and third-largest economies, but also over the peace and security of the entire East Asian region.
