【环时深度】起底日本右翼如何向小学生灌输军国主义

Core Viewpoint - The distribution of a children's version of the "Defense White Paper" by Japan's Ministry of Defense to elementary schools has sparked strong opposition from the education sector, with concerns that it promotes militaristic ideologies and infringes on children's rights [1][3][7]. Group 1: Distribution and Content of the White Paper - Approximately 6,100 copies of the children's version of the "Defense White Paper" have been distributed to 2,400 elementary schools across Japan, marking the first time this version has been physically distributed [3][4]. - The children's manual simplifies complex security issues into a narrative that emphasizes threats from neighboring countries, advocating for military expansion and portraying the Self-Defense Forces in a positive light [4][6]. - The manual is divided into four sections, focusing on the necessity of the Self-Defense Forces, perceived military threats from China, North Korea, and Russia, the rationale for increasing defense spending, and the disaster relief functions of the Self-Defense Forces [6][8]. Group 2: Reactions from Educational and Political Sectors - Educational organizations, including the All Japan Teachers' Union, have criticized the manual for promoting a one-sided view of national policy and have called for its withdrawal from schools [7][9]. - Some schools have decided not to allow students access to the manual, with teachers expressing concerns that its content resembles militaristic education [7][10]. - Experts argue that the manual's framing of security issues could lead to discrimination against children from countries labeled as "dangerous" within the text, potentially fostering a hostile environment in schools [8][10]. Group 3: Historical Context and Implications - The distribution of the children's version of the "Defense White Paper" is seen as part of a broader trend of right-wing efforts to introduce militaristic ideologies into education, which could undermine Japan's post-war peace efforts [9][13]. - The narrative presented in the manual risks distorting historical understanding among the younger generation, potentially leading to a collective memory gap regarding Japan's wartime history [13][14]. - Experts warn that if the younger generation is exposed to a militaristic perspective without a comprehensive understanding of historical context, it could lead to a dangerous normalization of military expansion and conflict [14].