Oleg Benesch Livres

Exploring the concept of bushid, or 'the way of the samurai,' this volume offers insights into modern Japanese social, cultural, and political history. It delves into how the samurai code has influenced contemporary Japanese society, reflecting on its impact on values, ethics, and national identity. The book connects historical traditions with present-day Japan, providing a comprehensive understanding of the enduring legacy of bushid in shaping the nation’s character and societal norms.

In 1945, researchers began examining the psychological effects of the Hiroshima bombing, leading to a trans-Pacific network focused on understanding survivors' experiences. Ran Zwigenberg highlights the differing interpretations of trauma among researchers and victims, revealing that early studies often overlooked emotional suffering due to Cold War influences. He argues that the concept of trauma, particularly PTSD, may not apply universally, as cultural contexts shape the understanding of suffering. The book delves into the historical and scientific constraints affecting both researchers and victims.

An innovative examination of heritage politics in Japan, showing how castles have been used to re-invent and recapture competing versions of the pre- imperial past and project possibilities for Japan's future. The transformation of castles from symbols of Japan's martial spirit into cultural heritage sites charts changing understandings of the past.