Pride, Not Prejudice: National Identity as a Pacifying Force in East Asia

Growing economic interdependencies between countries are not enough to overcome bitter memories grounded in earlier wars, invasions, and periods of colonial domination. Studies have suggested that more peaceful relations are likely only if countries submerge or paper over existing national identities by promoting universalism, but Pride, Not Prejudice argues that affirmation of national identities may be a more effective way to build international cooperation. Eunbin Chung borrows the social psychological theory of self-affirmation and applies it to an international context to argue that affirmation of a national identity can increase trust, guilt recognition, and positive perception between countries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: The University of Michigan Press

Even with the emergence of growing regional economic interdependencies, bitter memories rooted in past wars, invasions, and periods of colonial domination continue to hinder relations in Northeast Asia. Despite efforts to ease historical animosity, few have proven successful. Scholars had previously anticipated improved relations through increased economic interdependence or societal contact. However, in economic terms, Japan and China already trade heavily, with Japan emerging as China's largest trading partner and China as the second largest to Japan. Societal contact is already intense, with millions of Chinese, Koreans, and Japanese visiting each other's countries annually as students, tourists, and on business trips.

Despite these developments, international distrust and negative perceptions persist, as well as disagreements on what constitutes "adequate reparation" for the countries painful history. Noticing clashes of strong nationalisms around the world, numerous studies have suggested that more peaceful relations are likely only if countries submerge or paper over existing national identities by promoting universalism.

Pride, Not Prejudice, argues in contrast, that affirmation of national identities may be a more effective way to build international cooperation. By reflecting on the values of their national identity, individuals can develop trust and positive perceptions toward other countries. This idea aligns with the theoretical foundation that those with a clear, secure, and content sense of self can be more open, evenhanded, and less defensive toward others. Additionally, this reduced defensiveness can contribute to a more peaceful and cooperative global environment.

In conclusion, while growing regional economic interdependencies offer opportunities for improved relations in Northeast Asia, bitter memories and strong nationalisms continue to pose challenges. Efforts to ease historical animosity and promote universalism may have limited success. Instead, affirmation of national identities can foster trust, positive perceptions, and international cooperation. By understanding and valuing the unique values and histories of each country, nations can work towards building a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780472039050